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Homemade Lemon Drops

Homemade Lemon Drops: Sweet, Zesty Treats to Brighten Your Day

Make homemade lemon drops for a delightful, sweet, and tangy treat that brings sunshine to any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 20 pieces
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 50

Ingredients
  

For the Candy Base
  • 2 cups Granulated Sugar Ensure it fully dissolves for the best texture.
  • ½ cup Light Corn Syrup Prevents crystallization during cooking.
  • ½ cup Water Use filtered water for best results.
For the Flavor
  • ½ cup Fresh Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed for best flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Opt for Meyer lemons for a sweeter touch.
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon Extract Can be omitted or replaced with lemon oil.
For Visual Appeal
  • 1 drop Yellow Food Coloring Optional for vibrant color.
  • ½ cup Additional Granulated Sugar For coating the finished drops.

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Candy thermometer
  • Spoon or cookie scoop

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Lemon Drops
  1. Begin by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper and dusting it lightly with granulated sugar.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of granulated sugar, ½ cup of light corn syrup, and ½ cup of water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar completely dissolves.
  3. Once the sugar is dissolved, stop stirring and allow the mixture to boil to 300°F.
  4. Carefully remove the saucepan from heat and stir in ½ cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, and 1 teaspoon of lemon extract.
  5. Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, drop small amounts of the hot syrup onto your prepared baking sheet.
  6. After the drops have cooled slightly, roll them in additional granulated sugar.
  7. Allow the lemon drops to cool completely at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pieceCalories: 50kcalCarbohydrates: 13gSugar: 12gVitamin C: 2mg

Notes

Store lemon drops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 weeks. In humid environments, refrigerate to keep them from sticking together.

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