Description
Make your own candied lemon peel with this easy recipe! A sweet, chewy treat perfect for baking, snacking, or garnishing. Reduce waste & enjoy citrusy goodness!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4–5 lemons
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups water
- Additional sugar for coating (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Lemons: Wash the lemons thoroughly to remove any wax or pesticides. Using a sharp knife or vegetable peeler, carefully peel the lemons, avoiding excess white pith. Trim any excess pith if necessary.
- Cut the Peel: Slice the lemon peel into thin strips, about ¼-inch wide, or cut into small cubes if preferred.
- Blanch the Peels: Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the lemon peels. Boil for 2-3 minutes, then drain and rinse with cold water. Repeat this process two more times to remove bitterness.
- Make the Sugar Syrup: In a saucepan, combine 2 cups water and 2 cups granulated sugar. Heat over medium, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Bring to a simmer.
- Candy the Peels: Add the blanched lemon peels to the sugar syrup and reduce the heat to low. Simmer gently for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peels become translucent.
- Dry the Peels: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the candied lemon peels to a wire rack or parchment-lined baking sheet. Let them dry for several hours or overnight.
- Coat with Sugar (Optional): Once dry, toss the peels in additional granulated sugar for a crunchy coating.
- Store Properly: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one month or freeze for longer storage.
Notes
- Spiced Candied Peel: Add a cinnamon stick or cloves to the sugar syrup for extra flavor.
- Mixed Citrus Peel: Combine lemon peel with orange, lime, or grapefruit peels for variety.
- Chocolate-Dipped Candied Peel: Dip the dried peels in melted dark chocolate for a decadent treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- drying time: 6-12 hours
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: dessert, snack
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: European-inspired
Keywords: candied lemon peel, homemade candied citrus, citrus peel recipe, how to make candied lemon, candied fruit garnish