Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/4 teaspoon orange extract
- Orange food coloring (optional)
Special equipment needed:
- Candy thermometer
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, orange juice, water, and cream of tartar. Stir until sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and insert a candy thermometer. Cook the mixture until it reaches 240°F (115°C), stirring occasionally.
3. Once the mixture reaches 240°F (115°C), remove it from the heat and let it cool for 5 minutes.
4. Add the orange extract and a few drops of orange food coloring (if using) to the mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a stand mixer bowl or a large mixing bowl if using a hand mixer. Beat the mixture on medium-high speed until it becomes thick and creamy, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Once the mixture has thickened, transfer it onto a piece of parchment paper. Use a rolling pin to flatten the paste to your desired thickness.
7. Use cookie cutters or a knife to cut the paste into desired shapes.
8. Let the orange sugar paste dry for at least 24 hours before using it.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
Cooking temperature: Medium-high heat
Cooking temperature: 240°F (115°C)
Serving size:
Makes about 1 pound of orange sugar paste
Nutritional information:
Calories: 50 per serving
Total Fat: 0g
Sodium: 0mg
Total Carbohydrates: 13g
Sugars: 13g
Protein: 0g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Lemon juice or lime juice can be substituted for orange juice.
- Vanilla extract or almond extract can be substituted for orange extract.
- Gel food coloring can be used instead of liquid food coloring.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm and spicy flavor.
- Use different shaped cookie cutters to create a variety of shapes.
- Mix in edible glitter or sprinkles for a festive touch.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to use a candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches the correct temperature.
- Use a stand mixer or hand mixer for best results.
- If the mixture becomes too thick, add a few drops of water and mix until desired consistency is reached.
Storage instructions:
Store the orange sugar paste in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
The orange sugar paste does not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
- Use the orange sugar paste to decorate cakes, cupcakes, and cookies.
- Place the sugar paste shapes on a platter for a colorful and festive display.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle edible glitter or sprinkles on top of the sugar paste shapes.
- Add a small piece of fresh fruit on top of the sugar paste shapes.
Pairings:
- Pair the orange sugar paste with chocolate desserts for a delicious flavor combination.
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve the orange sugar paste with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mixture becomes too thick, add a few drops of water and mix until desired consistency is reached.
- If the mixture becomes too thin, return it to the heat and cook until it thickens.
Food safety advice:
- Be careful when working with hot sugar mixture as it can cause burns.
- Store the orange sugar paste in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
Food history:
Sugar paste is a traditional confectionery used for decorating cakes and pastries. It originated in Europe and has been used for centuries.
Flavor profiles:
The orange sugar paste has a sweet and tangy flavor with a hint of orange.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the orange sugar paste with a variety of desserts, such as cakes, cupcakes, and cookies.
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