Dulce De Naranja(Orange Candy)
A rich, sweet orange candy with crunchy pecans, perfect for sharing or gifting. Combines caramelized sugar, evaporated milk, and citrus peel for a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a heavy saucepan over low heat, melt 1 cup of sugar to a rich brown color.
- Blend in the remaining 2 cups of sugar, evaporated milk, and salt. Bring to a boil; cook, covered, for 3 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low; cook uncovered without stirring to soft ball stage (230° on candy thermometer).
- Cool without stirring to 110°.
- Fold in chopped pecans and orange peels.
- Beat until creamy.
- Pour into a buttered 8 x 8 x 2-inch pan.
- Cool; cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect texture, use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature closely, ensuring it reaches the soft ball stage at 230°F. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes. For added flavor, consider incorporating a splash of vanilla extract when blending in the evaporated milk.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful orange candies as a sweet treat after meals or as a snack with coffee or tea. They pair beautifully with the Honey-Orange Sauce for a refreshing contrast. Consider using them as a topping for vanilla ice cream or as part of a dessert platter alongside other sweets like Bulldog Cookies.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Dulce De Naranja in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a humid climate, refrigeration may be necessary to prevent stickiness. To enjoy, simply let it come to room temperature before serving, as this will enhance its creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dulce De Naranja(Orange Candy) contains roughly 87 calories, with 2g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh orange peels instead of candied ones?
Yes, you can use fresh orange peels, but they should be blanched to remove bitterness. Cut the peels into small pieces and add them when folding in with the pecans. This will enhance the citrus flavor in your candy.
What can I do if my candy didn't reach the right texture?
If your candy is too soft, you can reheat it gently in a saucepan and cook it a bit longer until it reaches the soft ball stage. If it's too hard, you can add a little water and reheat it to soften the texture. Just be careful not to overcook it again.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute the evaporated milk with a non-dairy option like coconut milk or almond milk. Just ensure that the alternative milk is unsweetened to keep the sugar balance right in the recipe.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).