Homemade Lemon Drops That Will Brighten Your Day

Brighten your day with these delightful homemade lemon drops! This simple recipe guides you through creating sweet and tangy hard candies, perfect for a treat or a gift.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Total Time 1

Servings: 35 pieces

Course: Candy, Dessert

Calories: 50

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

2 cups Granulated Sugar Make sure it's fully dissolved for perfect texture.
1/2 cup Light Corn Syrup Prevents crystallization; substitute with golden syrup if needed.
1/2 cup Water Use filtered water for best results.
1/2 cup Fresh Lemon Juice Fresh lemons recommended over bottled for superior taste.
1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Consider using Meyer lemon zest for a sweeter profile.
1 teaspoon Lemon Extract Omit for a subtler flavor or use lemon oil for a stronger kick.
1 drop Yellow Food Coloring Optional for aesthetic appeal.
1 cup Additional Granulated Sugar Coats the finished drops to prevent sticking.

Equipment

Baking Sheet
Parchment paper
Medium Saucepan

Method

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, dusting it lightly with sugar.
In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves, about 3-4 minutes.
Once fully dissolved, let the syrup boil without stirring until it reaches 300°F, about 10-15 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, lemon extract, and food coloring. Expect bubbling.
Drop small amounts of the syrup onto the prepared baking sheet.
Allow the drops to cool slightly, then roll them in additional granulated sugar.
Let the drops set at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before serving or storing.

Notes

Ensure your thermometer is accurate for best results when reaching 300°F. These lemon drops make a wonderful homemade gift for friends and family.