Description
Bright and zesty homemade lemon drops are a delightful balance of sweet and tangy, with a smooth texture and refreshing citrus flavor. Perfect for snacking or gifting!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2–3 medium fresh lemons (zest and ⅔ cup juice)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup cornstarch (for dusting)
- Optional: A few drops of yellow food coloring
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients:
- Zest and juice the lemons, ensuring you have ~2 tbsp zest and ⅔ cup of juice. Strain the juice to remove seeds and pulp.
- Cook the Mixture:
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, lemon juice, and zest. Stir over low heat until sugar dissolves (about 5 minutes). Increase heat to simmer and cook without stirring until the mixture reaches 250°F (hard ball stage).
- Pour and Set:
- Remove from heat and add food coloring if desired. Pour the mixture into silicone molds or onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let cool for 30–60 minutes until firm.
- Cut and Dust:
- If using a baking sheet, cut the candy into bite-sized pieces once set. Toss the candies in cornstarch to prevent sticking.
Notes
- Storage: Store lemon drops in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
- Alternative Shapes: Use silicone molds for fun shapes or roll the mixture into balls once it cools slightly.
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of citric acid for an extra tangy kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 30
- Sugar: 7g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g