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Homemade Lemon Drops

Classic, old-fashioned hard candies with a perfect balance of sweet and sour, coated in sparkling sugar.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 40 candies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 45

Ingredients
  

Candy Base
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 0.66 cup light corn syrup
  • 0.66 cup water
  • 1 tsp lemon extract oil-based is best
  • 1 tsp citric acid adjust for sourness
  • 4-5 drops yellow food coloring gel preferred
Coating
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar for tossing

Equipment

  • Heavy-bottomed saucepan
  • Candy thermometer
  • Kitchen shears or Silicone molds
  • Silicone baking mat

Method
 

  1. Prepare your molds with non-stick spray or lay out a silicone baking mat. Have the coating sugar ready in a bowl.
  2. In a heavy saucepan, mix granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
  3. Insert candy thermometer and boil without stirring until mixture reaches 300°F (149°C) - the hard crack stage.
  4. Remove from heat immediately. Let bubbles subside for 30 seconds, then stir in lemon extract, citric acid, and food coloring.
  5. Pour into molds or onto the silicone mat. If using a mat, wait until candy is pliable (not liquid) and cut into small pieces with oiled shears.
  6. While still warm but holding their shape, toss the candies in the extra granulated sugar to coat.
  7. Let cool completely on a wire rack or parchment paper before storing in an airtight container.

Notes

Avoid making on humid days for best results. Store with a silica packet to prevent sticking.