If you’ve been searching for a vintage orange slice candy recipe, this is the one that delivers chewy texture, nutty crunch, and sweet citrus flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
This classic 3-ingredient no-bake dessert keeps things beautifully simple:
Orange slice candies (about 1 pound), chopped
Powdered sugar (about 2–3 cups, sifted)
Pecans, finely chopped or ground (about 2 cups)
That’s it! No baking, no complicated techniques, and no special equipment.
How to Make Orange Slice Candy Pecan Balls
Step 1: Prepare the Candies
Using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors, chop the orange slice candies into small pieces. The smaller the pieces, the easier they’ll combine with the sugar and pecans.
Tip: Lightly dust your knife with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix with Powdered SugarPlace the chopped orange slices into a large mixing bowl. Gradually add powdered sugar, stirring as you go.
The sugar helps absorb the moisture from the candies and creates a dough-like consistency. Continue adding sugar until the mixture becomes thick and workable.
Step 3: Add the Pecans
Stir in the finely chopped or ground pecans. Mix thoroughly so the nuts are evenly distributed throughout the candy mixture.
The pecans add:
A nutty depth of flavor
Texture contrast
Balance to the sweetness
Step 4: Shape Into Balls
Using your hands, roll the mixture into small bite-sized balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
If the mixture is sticky, dust your hands lightly with powdered sugar.