Description

This candied lemon peel recipe is a simple yet delicious way to turn leftover lemon peels into a sweet, citrusy treat. With just a few basic ingredients—lemons, sugar, and water—you can create a chewy, flavorful snack that’s perfect for baking, garnishing desserts, or enjoying on its own. The balance of sweetness and tang makes it an irresistible addition to cakes, cookies, and cocktails. Follow this easy step-by-step guide to make your own homemade candied lemon peel!

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 large lemons (preferably organic)
2 cups granulated sugar
2 cups water

For Coating (Optional)

½ cup granulated sugar

Instructions

Prepare the Lemon Peels
- Wash the lemons thoroughly and pat them dry.
- Using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife, carefully remove the yellow peel in long strips, avoiding the bitter white pith as much as possible.
Remove Bitterness
- Place the lemon peels in a saucepan and cover with water.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, then drain the water.
- Repeat this process twice more to reduce bitterness.
Make the Sugar Syrup
- In a clean saucepan, combine 2 cups of water and 2 cups of sugar over medium heat.
- Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture starts to simmer.
Candy the Lemon Peels
- Add the drained lemon peels to the sugar syrup.
- Reduce the heat to low and let them simmer for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peels become translucent.
Drain and Dry the Peels
- Using a slotted spoon, remove the peels from the syrup and place them on a wire rack or parchment paper.
- Let them dry for 4-6 hours or overnight for best results.
Coat with Sugar (Optional)
- If you prefer a sugar-coated finish, roll the dried lemon peels in ½ cup of granulated sugar before storing.
Store and Enjoy
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 months or freeze for up to 6 months.
- Use in baked goods, desserts, or enjoy as a sweet snack!

Notes

Use Organic Lemons: Since you’re consuming the peel, organic lemons are best to avoid pesticide residues.
Thicker vs. Thinner Peels: Thicker peels will result in a chewier texture, while thinner peels will be softer.
Leftover Syrup: Don’t discard the leftover lemon-infused syrup—it’s great for sweetening tea, lemonade, or cocktails!
Faster Drying Option: If you’re in a hurry, place the peels in a 200°F (93°C) oven for 15-20 minutes to speed up drying.
Avoiding Stickiness: If the peels become sticky after storage, toss them in a bit of sugar to restore their texture.

Prep Time: 10
Cook Time: 60
Category: Breakfast
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: International

Keywords: candied lemon peel, homemade candy, citrus dessert, lemon zest, sugared lemon peel, candying fruit, lemon recipes, lemon garnish, baking ingredients