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How to Make Candied Lemon Slices ?

Candied lemon slices are the perfect combination of tangy and sweet, offering a burst of citrusy flavor in every bite. They are incredibly versatile, adding a delightful touch to cakes, cookies, and even drinks. Whether you're looking for a garnish for your favorite cocktail, a topping for desserts, or a sweet treat to snack on, these candied lemon slices will elevate any dish. With just a few simple ingredients, you can easily make these zesty slices at home.

In this article, we will guide you step-by-step on how to make candied lemon slices, from preparing the lemons to the final, delicious candying process. Get ready to add a burst of flavor to your culinary creations with this easy-to-follow recipe!

🍴 Recipe Preparation Equipment

Before you begin, gather the following equipment to ensure a smooth cooking process:

• A sharp knife or mandoline slicer (for slicing the lemons evenly)
• A large pot for boiling the sugar syrup
• A slotted spoon for removing the slices from the syrup
• A cooling rack or parchment paper for drying the candied slices
• A baking sheet (if you want to use it for drying purposes)
• A candy thermometer (optional, but helpful for precision)
• A clean, airtight container for storing the candied lemon slices

🍋 What Do You Need to Prepare Candied Lemon Slices?

To make candied lemon slices, you’ll need:

• 4 large lemons (preferably organic)
• 2 cups of water
• 2 cups of granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional, for added flavor)
• Pinch of salt (to balance the sweetness)
• Parchment paper (for drying)

These ingredients are simple yet essential to create that perfect balance of sweetness and tartness in your candied lemons. Let’s dive into the preparation!

🍽️ How to Make Candied Lemon Slices Step-by-Step ?

How to Make Candied Lemon Slices ?

Step 1: Prepare the Lemons

Begin by thoroughly washing the lemons to remove any dirt or wax. Slice the lemons into thin, even rounds—around 1/8-inch thick. If you have a mandoline slicer, this is the perfect tool to ensure uniform slices. Remove any seeds as you go along.

Step 2: Make the Syrup

In a large pot, combine the water, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar completely dissolves. If you’re using vanilla extract, add it to the syrup once the sugar is dissolved. Allow the syrup to come to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Candy the Lemon Slices

Carefully add the lemon slices to the syrup, ensuring they are fully submerged. Simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the lemon slices become translucent and the syrup thickens slightly.

Step 4: Dry the Candied Lemon Slices

Once the lemon slices have candied, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the syrup. Place them on a cooling rack or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool and dry. Let them dry for several hours or overnight until they’re no longer sticky to the touch.

Step 5: Coat (Optional) and Store

For an extra touch, you can roll the cooled lemon slices in granulated sugar to give them an extra sweet crunch. Store your candied lemon slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or refrigerate them for longer shelf life.

🍋 Variations

While the classic candied lemon slices are already perfect, there are several ways to add a twist to this recipe.

1. Lime Candied Slices: Substitute the lemons for limes to create a slightly different citrus flavor. This works especially well in cocktails or as a garnish for lime-infused desserts.
2. Orange Candied Slices: Oranges add a sweetness that complements the tartness of the lemon, and they’re perfect for adding a vibrant touch to fruitcakes or charcuterie boards.
3. Herbed Candied Lemons: To infuse some herbal notes into your candied lemon slices, try adding a few sprigs of rosemary or thyme to the syrup. The herbs will add an unexpected layer of flavor that pairs wonderfully with cocktails.
4. Spicy Candied Lemons: If you enjoy a little heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few slices of fresh ginger to the syrup while simmering. This variation offers a spicy-sweet combination that will add a kick to any recipe.

These variations allow you to customize your candied fruit to suit your flavor preferences and culinary needs. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different citrus fruits and flavor combinations!

🍳 Cooking Note

When making candied lemon slices, one important factor to consider is the consistency of the syrup. The syrup should simmer gently, not boil aggressively, as this can cause the lemon slices to break down or become too hard. If you find the syrup is too thin, you can simmer it for a longer period of time to thicken it.

Additionally, be patient with the drying process. Rushing the drying step may result in sticky or wet lemon slices. Allow the slices to air-dry thoroughly before storing them. The candied lemon slices can become quite sticky if not properly dried, so make sure to let them cool completely on the cooling rack or parchment paper.

Also, remember to save the leftover syrup! It's a delicious citrus-infused syrup that can be used in cocktails, added to tea, or even drizzled over pancakes and waffles. You can store it in the refrigerator for a few weeks.

🍊 Serving Suggestions

Candied lemon slices are a versatile ingredient that can be used in many ways. Here are a few ideas to get you started :

• Cocktail Garnish: Use the slices as a stunning garnish for cocktails like gin and tonic, lemonade, or even a lemon martini. The sweetness and tartness will complement the drink perfectly.
• Dessert Topping: These slices are perfect for decorating cakes, cupcakes, and cheesecakes. The translucent, sugar-coated lemon rounds look beautiful and add a burst of flavor.
• Tea Sweetener: Drop a candied lemon slice into your cup of tea for a sweet and zesty twist. It pairs especially well with herbal teas or green tea.
• Snack on Its Own: If you're craving a sweet treat, candied lemon slices are delicious on their own. They’re the perfect balance of sour and sweet, making them an ideal snack to satisfy your cravings.

💡 Helpful Tips

• Choose the Right Lemons: Opt for organic lemons when possible, as they’re less likely to have pesticides on the peel. The peel is crucial in making candied lemon slices, so using organic lemons ensures a safer, more natural product.
• Slice Evenly: For even cooking, try to slice the lemons as uniformly as possible. Uneven slices can cause some to cook faster than others, leading to inconsistencies in texture.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of sugar in the syrup or try adding a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup for a different flavor profile.
• Drying Time: Don’t rush the drying process. Let the candied lemon slices dry at room temperature for several hours. You can also speed up the process by using a food dehydrator.
• Storage: Store the candied slices in an airtight container to keep them fresh. You can also refrigerate them for longer shelf life, but make sure they are fully dried before storing.

💫 Tips for the Best Candied Lemon Slices

1. Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh, firm lemons will result in the best texture and flavor for candied slices.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When adding the lemon slices to the syrup, make sure they have enough space to cook evenly. Overcrowding will cause uneven candying.
3. Low and Slow: Simmer the lemon slices gently over low heat to preserve their shape and prevent them from breaking down.
4. Be Patient: Candied lemon slices take time to develop their full flavor. Allow them to cool and dry properly before storing.
5. Customize the Sweetness: You can adjust the sweetness of the candied lemon slices by modifying the sugar amount in the syrup or by experimenting with different types of sugar like brown sugar for a richer taste.

🕑 Timing Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

🍊 Nutritional Information

• Calories: 120 (per 2 slices)
• Protein: 0g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Sugar: 30g

❓ FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of citrus for this recipe?
A: Yes! You can substitute lemons with limes, oranges, or grapefruits to make candied citrus slices.

Q: Can I store candied lemon slices in the fridge?
A: Yes, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a few weeks, though they may become a little sticky if not properly dried.

Q: How long does it take for the slices to dry?
A: The drying time can vary, but it generally takes several hours or overnight for the candied lemon slices to dry completely.

🍋 Conclusion

Candied lemon slices are a delightful treat that adds a touch of elegance and flavor to many dishes. Whether you use them as a garnish, in baked goods, or enjoy them as a snack, these zesty-sweet slices are sure to impress. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can make these candied treats at home in no time. 

Enjoy the burst of citrusy goodness they bring to your culinary creations!