Imagine biting into a zesty, sugary delight that dances on your tongue! These homemade lemon drops are a burst of sunshine, with their bright, tangy flavor perfectly balanced by a sweet finish. As you mix fresh lemon juice with sugar and a hint of corn syrup, the aroma fills your kitchen, making it feel like springtime. Once they’re set, each drop offers a delightful crunch that melts into a refreshing citrus explosion. Perfect for sharing or savoring solo, these treats are sure to brighten your day and bring a smile to your face!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Trust me, you’re going to love this zesty flavor explosion!
- Simple ingredients mean you can whip these up anytime.
- This one’s a game-changer for your sweet tooth cravings!
- Perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself—no judgment here!
- They make a delightful homemade gift that everyone will adore!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Side Dish |
| Cuisine | American-inspired comfort food |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Dietary | Vegetarian |
| Serves | 4 |
| Best Served | Hot and cheesy right off the cob! |
Ingredients
- Lemon juice – adds the bright, tangy flavor that defines lemon drops.
- Granulated sugar – sweetens the mixture and helps create that delightful candy texture.
- Water – necessary for dissolving the sugar and creating the syrup.
- Corn syrup – prevents crystallization and gives the drops a smooth finish.
- Powdered sugar – used for dusting the finished lemon drops to prevent sticking.
- Citric acid – enhances the tartness and gives an extra zing to the flavor.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Get ready to whip up some delightful homemade lemon drops with these easy steps!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect 1 cup of fresh lemon juice, 2 cups of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of water, and a pinch of salt.
Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Juice
Squeeze fresh lemons until you have 1 cup of juice. Strain it to remove seeds and pulp.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a saucepan, mix the lemon juice, sugar, water, and salt. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
Step 4: Heat the Mixture
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Simmer and Thicken
Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 6: Cool the Mixture
Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes. It should be warm but not hot.
Step 7: Pour into Molds
Carefully pour the mixture into candy molds or a lined baking dish.
Step 8: Let It Set
Allow the lemon drops to cool at room temperature for several hours or until fully set.
Step 9: Cut and Coat
If using a baking dish, cut into squares. Roll in sugar for a sweet finish!
Step 10: Enjoy Your Treats!
Pop one in your mouth and savor the zesty goodness of your homemade lemon drops!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Use fresh lemons for the best flavor and zest. Experiment with different citrus for a unique twist. Keep your workspace clean to avoid sticky situations. Allow the drops to cool completely for the perfect texture. Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
How to Serve
Enjoy your homemade lemon drops in delightful ways!
- Serve them in a colorful candy dish for a cheerful centerpiece.
- Pair with a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade for a citrusy twist.
- Use them as a fun garnish on top of cupcakes or cakes.
- Wrap them in cellophane and tie with a ribbon for a sweet gift.
- Add to a homemade gift basket with other treats for a delightful surprise.
- Include them in a picnic spread for a zesty snack option.
- Mix with a variety of other homemade candies for a candy buffet.
- Enjoy them while watching a movie for a sweet treat experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing your homemade lemon drops properly ensures they stay fresh and delicious!
Storing Leftovers
- Allow lemon drops to cool completely before storing.
- Place them in an airtight container.
- Keep the container in a cool, dry place.
- For longer freshness, refrigerate them.
Freezing
- Wrap lemon drops individually in plastic wrap.
- Place wrapped drops in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label the container with the date for reference.
- Freeze for up to three months for best quality.
Reheating
- Thaw frozen lemon drops in the refrigerator overnight.
- Let them come to room temperature before serving.
- Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.
- Enjoy them as is or with a light dusting of powdered sugar.
FAQs
What ingredients do I need to make homemade lemon drops?
To make homemade lemon drops, you’ll need fresh lemon juice, granulated sugar, water, and a bit of corn syrup. These simple ingredients come together to create a delightful candy that’s bursting with citrus flavor!
How can I prevent my lemon drops from being too sticky?
To avoid sticky lemon drops, ensure you use enough sugar in your recipe and let them cool completely before storing. Dusting them with powdered sugar can also help keep them from sticking together.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch. Just keep in mind that the taste may not be as vibrant, so adjust the sweetness to your liking!
How should I store my homemade lemon drops?
Store your homemade lemon drops in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for several weeks, but be sure to keep them away from humidity to maintain their texture!
Final Thoughts
Making homemade lemon drops is not just a recipe; it’s a delightful experience that brings a burst of sunshine to your day! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these sweet, tangy treats that are sure to bring back fond memories. So gather your loved ones, whip up a batch, and enjoy the satisfaction of homemade goodness. Happy candy-making!
homemade lemon drops
Equipment
- 1 Saucepan For mixing and heating the ingredients.
- 1 Candy molds or lined baking dish For pouring the mixture to set.
Ingredients
Liquid Ingredients
- 1 cup Lemon juice Adds the bright, tangy flavor.
- 1/4 cup Water Necessary for dissolving the sugar.
Solid Ingredients
- 2 cups Granulated sugar Sweetens the mixture.
- 1/4 cup Corn syrup Prevents crystallization.
- to taste pinch Salt Enhances flavor.
- to taste tablespoon Citric acid Enhances tartness.
- to dust cup Powdered sugar Used for dusting to prevent sticking.
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients – Collect 1 cup of fresh lemon juice, 2 cups of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of water, and a pinch of salt.
- Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Juice – Squeeze fresh lemons until you have 1 cup of juice. Strain it to remove seeds and pulp.
- Step 3: Combine Ingredients – In a saucepan, mix the lemon juice, sugar, water, and salt. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Step 4: Heat the Mixture – Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally.
- Step 5: Simmer and Thicken – Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Step 6: Cool the Mixture – Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes. It should be warm but not hot.
- Step 7: Pour into Molds – Carefully pour the mixture into candy molds or a lined baking dish.
- Step 8: Let It Set – Allow the lemon drops to cool at room temperature for several hours or until fully set.
- Step 9: Cut and Coat – If using a baking dish, cut into squares. Roll in sugar for a sweet finish!
- Step 10: Enjoy Your Treats! – Pop one in your mouth and savor the zesty goodness of your homemade lemon drops!