Sweet and Tangy Homemade Lemon Drops Recipe

Introduction

Brighten your day with these sweet and tangy homemade lemon drops. This classic candy delivers a refreshing citrus punch wrapped in a perfect crunchy texture, ideal for a cheerful treat or a thoughtful gift.

Ingredients

• 2 cups Granulated Sugar
• 1/2 cup Light Corn Syrup
• 1/2 cup Water
• 1/2 cup Fresh Lemon Juice
• 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest
• 1 teaspoon Lemon Extract (optional)
• Few drops Yellow Food Coloring
• 1 cup Additional Granulated Sugar (for coating)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and sprinkle a generous layer of granulated sugar over it. Gather and measure all your ingredients before starting.
2. Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Place over medium heat and stir continuously for 3-4 minutes, until the mixture becomes clear.
3. Step 3: Stop stirring and allow the syrup to boil undisturbed until it reaches the hard crack stage at 300°F (150°C), about 10-15 minutes. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature.
4. Step 4: Remove the pan from heat and quickly stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, lemon extract (if using), and yellow food coloring.
5. Step 5: Spoon small amounts of the lemon mixture onto the prepared sugar-coated baking sheet to form evenly sized drops.
6. Step 6: Let the drops cool for a few minutes, then roll each one in the additional granulated sugar to coat them well.
7. Step 7: Allow the coated lemon drops to sit for 20-30 minutes to harden and develop a glossy finish before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a natural substitute, golden syrup can be used in place of light corn syrup, though it may slightly alter the flavor.
• If fresh lemon juice is unavailable, bottled lemon juice can be used, but expect a difference in brightness and freshness.
• Add a pinch of citric acid for an extra tangy kick if desired.

Storage

Store lemon drops in an airtight container at room temperature, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. They will keep well for up to two weeks. Avoid refrigeration, which can cause condensation and make the candy sticky. To enjoy again, let them come to room temperature if chilled.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use artificial lemon flavor instead of fresh lemon juice?

Artificial lemon flavor alone won’t provide the acidity and moisture needed to balance the candy and achieve the right texture. Fresh lemon juice or a quality bottled juice is recommended for best results.

Why is corn syrup important in this recipe?

Corn syrup prevents the sugar from crystallizing, which helps the candy maintain a smooth, hard texture. Without it, the lemon drops might become grainy or sticky.

Sweet and Tangy Homemade Lemon Drops Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 102 reviews

• Author: anna
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 40–50 lemon drops 1x

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Description

Brighten your day with these Sweet and Tangy Homemade Lemon Drops. This classic candy recipe combines fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and a touch of lemon extract to create a perfectly balanced sweet and sour flavor. The candies have a smooth, glassy texture and a vibrant yellow color, finished with a crunchy sugar coating for an irresistible treat.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups Granulated Sugar
• 1/2 cup Light Corn Syrup
• 1/2 cup Water
• 1/2 cup Fresh Lemon Juice
• 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest
• 1 teaspoon Lemon Extract (optional but recommended)
• Few drops Yellow Food Coloring

Coating

• 1 cup Additional Granulated Sugar

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Instructions

1. Prepare baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and generously sprinkle granulated sugar over the surface to prevent sticking and create a sugar coating for the lemon drops.
2. Mix syrup ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups granulated sugar, 1/2 cup light corn syrup, and 1/2 cup water. Heat over medium heat, stirring continuously for 3-4 minutes until the mixture becomes clear and the sugar has dissolved.
3. Boil to hard crack stage: Stop stirring and allow the syrup to boil undisturbed until it reaches the hard crack stage at 300°F (150°C), which should take about 10-15 minutes. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature.
4. Add lemon flavoring: Remove the pan from heat and quickly stir in 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon lemon zest, 1 teaspoon lemon extract, and a few drops of yellow food coloring to enhance the flavor and appearance.
5. Form lemon drops: Spoon small, evenly sized drops of the lemon mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Work quickly as the syrup will begin to set.
6. Roll in sugar: Allow the drops to cool for a few minutes until they are firm enough to handle. Then, carefully roll each lemon drop in the additional 1 cup granulated sugar to create a sweet, crunchy exterior.
7. Set and harden: Let the coated lemon drops sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes to fully harden and develop a glossy finish. Once set, store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Notes

• Use a candy thermometer to ensure the syrup reaches the precise hard crack stage for perfect texture.
• Fresh lemon juice is preferred for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used if necessary.
• Golden syrup can substitute light corn syrup if unavailable.
• Work quickly when forming drops as the syrup cools and hardens fast.
• Store lemon drops in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to prevent stickiness.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Candy
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Lemon drops, homemade candy, lemon candy, sweet and tangy, hard candy, lemon zest, citrus candy