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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Instructions

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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