Candied Lemon Slices

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brightens up any occasion, you’ve come to the right place! Candied Lemon Slices are not only a sweet addition to your dessert table but also make for a fantastic garnish for cakes, teas, or even cocktails (non-alcoholic, of course!). This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it captures the vibrant essence of lemons and transforms them into something truly magical. Plus, it’s an easy way to use up those extra lemons sitting on your counter!

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these candied lemon slices will impress everyone at the table. They add a refreshing zing that perfectly complements your favorite desserts, making every bite feel like a sunny day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious candied lemon slices ready to enjoy.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet and tangy flavor; it’s a fun treat for everyone!
• Make-Ahead Treat: Prepare these in advance, and they’ll be ready whenever you need them.
• Versatile Use: Perfect as a snack, dessert garnish, or even as part of your morning routine.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sugar and lemon creates an irresistible balance that will have you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be thrilled to know that this recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have at home. Let’s gather everything we need to create these lovely candies!

For the Candied Lemon Slices

• 3 lemons
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1/4 cup sugar (for coating)
• 10 pieces melting chocolate (OPTIONAL)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! If you’re feeling adventurous or want to tailor the flavors to your taste, here are some fun variations you can try:

• Add spices: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or ginger during the simmering process for a warm twist.
• Use other citrus fruits: Experiment with oranges or limes for different flavors that still bring that zing!
• Infuse with herbs: Adding fresh mint or basil while simmering can give your candied slices an aromatic kick.
• Chocolate drizzle: If you love chocolate, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled slices instead of dipping them!

How to Make Candied Lemon Slices

Step 1: Slice the Lemons

Start by slicing your lemons thinly—around 1/4-1/8 inch thick. Be sure to remove any seeds you find along the way. This step is essential because thinner slices ensure the lemons will candy evenly and soak up all that delicious syrup.

Step 2: Prepare the Sugar Syrup

In a large saucepan or skillet, heat the water and 2 cups of sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer. This syrup is what gives our lemon slices their sweet flavor while helping them become tender and glossy.

Step 3: Simmer the Lemon Slices

Once your syrup is bubbling gently, add those lovely lemon slices into the pot. Lower the heat to low or medium-low and let them simmer for one hour. Remember to flip those slices every 15 minutes so they get evenly coated in syrup and candy beautifully.

Step 4: Cool and Dry

After an hour has passed, carefully remove the lemon slices from the syrup using tongs or a slotted spoon and lay them out on parchment paper. Let them sit out for about 24 hours; this drying time helps achieve that perfect chewy texture while intensifying their flavor.

Step 5: Coat with Sugar

Once dried, take your remaining 1/4 cup of sugar and coat each slice generously. This step adds an extra sweetness that makes these treats shine!

Step 6: Optional Chocolate Dip

If you’re feeling indulgent, melt some chocolate in a microwave-safe dish. Dip each sugar-coated slice into the chocolate for an extra layer of decadence. Just remember that chocolate-coated lemon slices won’t last as long—so enjoy them soon!

Step 7: Store Your Treats

Finally, store your candied lemon slices in a covered container in the refrigerator. Place parchment paper or waxed paper between layers to prevent sticking. Enjoy within one or two days if you’ve added chocolate!

Now you’re ready to savor these delightful Candied Lemon Slices! Whether as a snack or decoration on desserts, I hope they bring as much joy to you as they do to me!

Pro Tips for Making Candied Lemon Slices

Making candied lemon slices can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh lemons – Fresh, juicy lemons yield the best flavor and texture. Look for firm lemons with bright skin to achieve the most vibrant candy.
• Don’t rush the simmering process – Allowing the lemon slices to simmer slowly helps them absorb the sugar syrup evenly. This gives you that wonderful sweetness without burning the citrus.
• Flip regularly – Turning the lemon slices every 15 minutes ensures that both sides get equal exposure to the syrup, preventing any uneven candification.
• Let them dry properly – Allowing the candied lemon slices to sit for a full day promotes a firmer texture and prevents stickiness when coated in sugar. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect candy consistency.
• Experiment with flavors – Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or ginger to the syrup. This can elevate your candied lemon slices and add an exciting twist to their flavor profile!

How to Serve Candied Lemon Slices

Candied lemon slices are not just a treat on their own; they can also be used in various delightful ways. Here are some ideas for serving them beautifully.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream – A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a rich and creamy contrast to the tartness of the lemon slices.
• Fresh mint leaves – A sprinkle of mint adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the citrusy flavor beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream – The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with candied lemon slices, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
• Pound cake – A slice of moist pound cake serves as an excellent base for topping with candied lemon slices. The buttery flavor enhances the citrus notes beautifully.
• Yogurt parfaits – Layer your favorite yogurt with granola and pieces of candied lemon for a refreshing breakfast or dessert that feels indulgent yet healthy.

These options will not only enhance your candied lemon slices but also impress your guests with stunning presentations! Enjoy experimenting with different combinations and flavors!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Candied Lemon Slices are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch and store them for later use, making your desserts and garnishes ready whenever you need them.

Storing Leftovers

• Place the candied lemon slices in a covered container.
• Use parchment paper or waxed paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days if coated with chocolate; otherwise, they can last longer without chocolate.

Freezing

• Although freezing is not recommended for candied lemon slices as it can alter their texture, if you choose to do so:
• Place the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Use within 1 month for best quality.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat candied lemon slices; they are best enjoyed at room temperature.
• If you want to serve them warm, gently warm them in the microwave for a few seconds—just enough to take the chill off.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Candied Lemon Slices:

How long do Candied Lemon Slices last?

Candied Lemon Slices can last up to 1 week when stored properly in a covered container in the refrigerator. If coated with chocolate, it’s best to consume them within 2 days.

Can I use other citrus fruits for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute lemons with other citrus fruits like oranges, limes, or grapefruits. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the thickness of the slices.

What can I do with leftover syrup from Candied Lemon Slices?

The syrup left from making Candied Lemon Slices is delicious! You can use it as a sweetener for tea, drizzle it over pancakes or waffles, or even use it in cocktails or mocktails for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Candied Lemon Slices! They bring a bright burst of flavor and sweetness that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re using them as a garnish or enjoying them as a treat, I’m sure they’ll add a special touch to your day. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!