Homemade Lemon Drops: A Sweet and Tangy Treat You’ll Love

There’s something truly delightful about a homemade candy that captures the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. These Homemade Lemon Drops are just that—a little burst of sunshine in candy form! With their bright citrus flavor, these candies are not just a treat for your taste buds but also a joyful activity to make.

If you’re a fan of zesty flavors and DIY projects, you’re going to love this recipe. I can’t stop smiling while I’m eating one of these lemony gems right now, and I bet you’ll feel the same once you try them!

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Why You’ll Love These Homemade Lemon Drops

• Burst of Flavor: Each drop is a tangy explosion of lemon, balanced perfectly with just enough sweetness.
• Fun to Make: Crafting these candies is like a science experiment with a delicious outcome!
• Customizable: Adjust the flavor intensity, color, or even add a fun twist like a touch of mint.

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Ingredients

To make these delightful lemon drops, you’ll need:

• ½ cup sugar
• ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
• ¼ cup water
• 1 teaspoon citric acid
• ¼ teaspoon lemon extract
• Yellow food coloring
• 1-2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for rolling)

Necessary Tools

• Silpat or marble slab
• Candy thermometer
• Plastic scraper (coated with butter)
• Kitchen scissors (also buttered)
• Small saucepan

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Tools: Butter your plastic scraper and kitchen scissors, and set up a Silpat or marble slab for pouring the candy mixture. Preheat your oven to “warm.”
2. Make the Candy Base: In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, combine sugar, cream of tartar, and water. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved, then stop stirring. Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan and allow the mixture to boil until it reaches 300°F (hard ball stage).
3. Add Flavors and Colors: Immediately pour the hot mixture onto the Silpat. Quickly sprinkle citric acid, lemon extract, and yellow food coloring over the mixture.
4. Mix and Shape: Using the buttered scraper, fold the ingredients together until fully combined. The mixture will initially stick to the scraper but will eventually come together into a smooth, cohesive lump.
5. Shape the Lemon Drops: While the candy is still hot but manageable, cut or pull small pieces from the mixture using buttered scissors. Roll each piece into a small sphere or egg shape. Be cautious—it should feel warm but not burn your hands.
6. Powder and Cool: Roll the formed candies in powdered sugar to prevent them from sticking together. Allow them to cool and harden completely before enjoying.

Pro Tip: If the candy starts to harden before you finish shaping, place it in the preheated oven for a few minutes to soften.

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What to Serve with Lemon Drops

These lemon drops make a delightful standalone treat, but they’re also wonderful when paired with a cup of tea or hot chocolate. For a festive gift idea, package them in a glass jar with a pretty ribbon—they make the perfect homemade gift!

Tips for Making Perfect Lemon Drops

• Always use a candy thermometer to ensure you reach the correct temperature.
• Buttering your tools is essential to prevent the sticky mixture from clinging to them.
• For a more intense lemon flavor, add an extra dash of lemon extract or citric acid.

Storage Instructions

Store your lemon drops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To prevent them from sticking, keep them lightly coated in powdered sugar.

FAQs

Can I use a different flavor extract?
Absolutely! While lemon is classic, you can experiment with orange, lime, or even peppermint extracts.

What is citric acid, and can I skip it?
Citric acid is what gives these candies their signature tangy kick. It’s available in most baking aisles. Skipping it will result in a sweeter candy without the tartness.

Why did my candy harden too quickly?
If your candy hardens before you can shape it, simply reheat it in the oven on “warm” until it becomes pliable again.

More Candy Recipes to Try

If you loved these lemon drops, you’ll want to check out these other sweet treats:

• No-Bake Coconut Balls with Condensed Milk
• Christmas Rice Krispie Treat Bites
• Easy Homemade Divinity Candy

Let’s Connect

Did you make these lemon drops? I’d love to see your creations! Share your photos and tag me on Pinterest at Emma Recipes.

Nutritional Information

Approximate per serving:
Calories: 25
Carbohydrates: 6g
Sugars: 6g

Making these Homemade Lemon Drops is not only rewarding but also incredibly fun! They’re the perfect project for a cozy weekend or a unique gift idea. So why not give them a try? Your taste buds will thank you!

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