Candied Lemon Slices
Candied lemon slices are an easy-to-make treat that is perfect for topping cakes and cookies. Learn how to make delicious candied lemons here!
If you are a citrus lover like myself, you are going to LOVE this recipe! Candied lemons could not be easier to make, yet they add such an elegant and sophisticated touch to everything they are used for. Also, they are truly delicious. You take all the sour notes of lemon and transform them into something magical. This method also makes a great way to use up any extra lemons you have on hand before they go bad. Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Candied lemons are super easy to make.
- Sweet, tart, rich, decadent, and flavorful.
- Candied lemon slices can be used in a large variety of ways.
- Vibrant and beautiful — makes a stunning decorative element!
- Naturally vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, soy-free, nut-free.
Ingredient Notes
Keep in mind that this is just a quick overview — head to the recipe card for detailed instructions and exact measurements!
Lemons: Since you will be eating the peels and all, I recommended buying organic lemons to avoid harmful pesticides. Look for deep yellow lemons with smooth skins for best results.
Sugar: Using white cane sugar will produce the prettiest results and is recommended if you plan on decorating baked goods or garnishing dishes with these candied lemons. If looks are unimportant, you can use coconut sugar for a slightly healthier option (though the flesh will turn brown!).
Lemon juice: A touch of lemon juice both tenderizes the lemon peels and adds additional flavor to these candied lemon slices.
How to Candy Lemons
Using Candied Lemon Slices
- As a beautiful garnish for our gluten-free lemon drizzle cake, cupcakes, gluten-free lemon squares, cheesecake, lemonade, cocktails, ice cream, or even a cup of tea.
- You can chop candied lemons and incorporate them into baked goods, homemade candy recipes, or even a favorite salad.
- The syrup that remains in the bottom of the pan after making candied lemon peels is also known as lemon simple syrup and it can be stored and used to mix into warm and cold beverages alike.
- This candied lemon slices recipe makes an excellent gift for the foodies in your life
- Enjoy it simply as a delicious snack!
Storage
You can keep candied lemon slices stored in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to one month.
Expert Tips
- While tempting, allow the candied lemon peels sufficient time to dry before using them for best results.
- For the easiest and prettiest results use a mandoline to make your lemon slices over using a sharp knife.
- You can use this same recipe to candy other citrus fruits like grapefruit , Meyer lemons, oranges, or limes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you eat the rind of candied lemons?
Yes. When candying lemons, the rinds soften, tenderize, and soak up the sugar syrup making them delightfully edible and delicious.
Does candied fruit need to be refrigerated?
While refrigeration produces the best results, you can store candied fruit in a cool, dry place as an alternative.
Can you freeze candied lemon slices?
Yes! You can freeze candied lemons for up to 4 months.
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Candied Lemon Slices
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar see Notes below
- ¾ cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 lemons sliced
Instructions
- In a large saucepan over high heat add the sugar, water and lemon juice. Bring to a boil.
- Add the lemon slices, then turn the heat to a simmer (medium-low). Simmer gently for 40 minutes, or until the slices are translucent and the liquid has reduced considerably.
- Transfer the candied lemon slices to parchment paper and arrange in a single layer. Allow the lemon slices to dry overnight or at least 8 hours before enjoying or storing.
This recipe sounds great! I was wondering if you can put them in the hydrator?
Hi! Thanks for visiting. Do you mean a dehydrator? If so, I think this recipe would work beautifully in a dehydrator, though you could either dehydrate slightly (until chewy and slightly tacky) for similar results to leaving them out overnight, or you could dehydrate them fully for a different effect (you can grind fully dehydrated candied lemons for a delicious powder!). I hope this helps!
This is a smart way to use up a big bag of lemon from Costco. I now have tons of candied lemon in the freezer, ready to be added to tea or cakes.
I had no idea candied lemons were this easy to make. I’ll be making these often. Yum!
I couldn’t believe how easy it was to make these candied lemons!! They looked so pretty and were so easy to make – we used them as a garnish for our morning tea!
Oh how fun! This definitely is the perfect use for leftover lemons. They would add such a wonderful touch to cakes and pies.
This is such an easy recipe! Awesome!