Sweet-tooths rejoice! The bright and tangy flavor of lemon drops just got a whole lot more exciting. In this article, we’re diving into 18 zesty lemon drop candy recipes that will satisfy your cravings and tantalize your taste buds. From classic homemade treats to creative twists like honey-infused and chili-lime flavored candies, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
Whether you’re a fan of chewy marshmallow drops or crunchy gummies, we’ve got the perfect recipe for you. And don’t worry – vegan options are included too! So go ahead, indulge in these sweet and tangy treats, and get ready to pucker up with joy.
Classic Homemade Lemon Drop Candies
Classic Homemade Lemon Drop Candies Recipe
Sweeten your day with these tangy and tart homemade lemon drop candies!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup (60ml) water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed or bottled)
– 1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
– Yellow food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan. Place the saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir until the sugar has dissolved, then bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard-ball stage).
4. Remove from heat. Add lemon juice and gelatin. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes, allowing the gelatin to bloom.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or a silicone candy mold.
6. If desired, add yellow food coloring to tint the candies.
7. Allow the mixture to cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including cooling time)
Lemon Drop Candy with Honey Infusion
Sweet Lemon Drop Candy with a hint of Honey Infusion
Take your taste buds on a trip to sunny citrus lands with these tangy and sweet candies, infused with the warmth of honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon citric acid
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon honey powder (or 1-2 drops of pure honey)
– Lemon zest for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and stir until sugar dissolves.
2. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, citric acid, salt, and honey powder (or pure honey).
4. Let mixture cool slightly before pouring onto a greased surface, such as parchment paper or a silicone mat.
5. Allow candy to set at room temperature for about 30-40 minutes or until firm.
6. Cut into desired shapes and serve with a sprinkle of lemon zest, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Tangy Lemon Drop Gummies
Brighten up your day with these tangy and sweet gummies infused with the zesty flavor of lemon!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon citric acid (optional)
– Food coloring (yellow or orange)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, lemon juice, and 1/2 cup of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add the bloomed gelatin to the saucepan and stir until fully dissolved.
4. Remove from heat and add citric acid (if using). Stir well.
5. Pour the mixture into a silicone gummy mold or a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
7. Unmold the gummies and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Sparkling Sugar-Coated Lemon Drops
Sparkling Sugar-Coated Lemon Drops Recipe
Sweet and tangy lemon drops coated in a crunchy sugar shell, perfect for a refreshing treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine sugar, water, and corn syrup. Heat in the microwave on high for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the mixture reaches 300°F.
2. Remove from heat and stir in gelatin until dissolved.
3. Add lemon juice, salt, and stir to combine.
4. Pour the mixture onto a greased surface (such as a silicone mat or parchment paper). Let cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
5. Once set, use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to cut into desired shapes.
6. Roll each piece in confectioners’ sugar to coat.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Lemon Drop Candy with Chili Lime Twist
Experience a sweet and spicy twist on the classic lemon drop candy with this unique recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon lime zest
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Place over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, chili powder, and lime zest.
5. Pour onto the prepared baking sheet and let cool to room temperature.
6. Once set, use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to cut into desired shapes.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Vegan Lemon Drop Candy Bites
A sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion, these bite-sized vegan lemon drop candies are a refreshing twist on the classic favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup vegan white chocolate chips (such as So Delicious or Enjoy Life)
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, maple syrup, and water. Place over medium heat and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt.
5. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and let cool to room temperature.
6. Once cooled, use a spoon or cookie scoop to form into bite-sized balls.
7. Melt the vegan white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
8. Dip each candy ball into the melted white chocolate, coating completely.
9. Place coated candies on a piece of parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (simmering time) + 30 minutes (cooling time)
Lemon Drop Candy with Lavender Essence
Brighten up your day with these tangy and sweet treats infused with the subtle charm of lavender.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon lavender essence
– Confectioners’ glaze (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan.
2. Place the mixture over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and lavender essence.
5. Pour the mixture onto a greased surface or silicone mat.
6. Allow it to cool and set at room temperature (about 30-40 minutes).
7. Once set, cut into desired shapes and sizes.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chewy Lemon Drop Marshmallow Candies
Sweet and tangy, Chewy Lemon Drop Marshmallow Candies are a refreshing twist on traditional marshmallow treats. With the bright citrus flavor of lemon and the chewiness of a classic candy, these candies are perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup corn syrup
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon citric acid (optional)
– Confectioner’s sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the marshmallows, sugar, and corn syrup.
2. Place the saucepan over low heat and stir until the mixture is smooth and melted.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice and citric acid (if using).
4. Pour the mixture onto a greased surface, such as parchment paper or a silicone mat.
5. Let the mixture cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
6. Once set, use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to cut into desired shapes.
7. Dust with confectioner’s sugar and serve.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-15 minutes
Lemon Drop Candy with Coconut Flakes
Brighten up your day with these sweet and tangy lemon drops, infused with the nutty flavor of coconut flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (120ml) water
– 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
– 1 teaspoon lemon extract
– 1/4 teaspoon citric acid
– Coconut flakes for coating
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and stir until sugar dissolves.
2. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and add gelatin, lemon extract, and citric acid. Stir until dissolved.
4. Pour mixture into a shallow dish or silicone mat. Let cool and set at room temperature (about 30 minutes).
5. Once set, use a cookie cutter or sharp knife to cut into desired shapes.
6. Roll each piece in coconut flakes to coat.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Spiced Lemon Drop Candy with Cinnamon
These bite-sized treats combine the brightness of lemon with the warmth of cinnamon, creating a delightful flavor combination that’s perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice and cinnamon.
5. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Let cool and set at room temperature.
6. Once set, use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to cut into desired shapes.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Drop Candy Stuffed with Blueberry Jam
Lemon Drop Candy Stuffed with Blueberry Jam: A Sweet Twist on a Classic Treat
These bite-sized candies combine the tanginess of lemon drops with the sweetness of blueberry jam. The perfect treat for anyone looking to add a little excitement to their dessert repertoire!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon extract
– Blueberry jam (about 1/2 cup)
– Confectioners’ glaze or powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it soften for about 5 minutes.
2. Combine the sugar, corn syrup, and 1/2 cup of water in a medium saucepan. Place it over medium heat and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the candy reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the softened gelatin and lemon extract until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture onto a greased surface, such as a silicone mat or a piece of parchment paper. Let it cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
6. Once set, use a small cookie cutter or a knife to cut out shapes from the candy. Spoon a small amount of blueberry jam into the center of each shape.
7. Dust with confectioners’ glaze or powdered sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: About 10-15 minutes (depending on the temperature and humidity)
Lemon Drop Candy with Matcha Dusting
A refreshing twist on the classic lemon drop candy, this recipe adds a touch of green tea flavor and a pop of color from matcha dusting.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
– Matcha powder (for dusting)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for coating)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it soften for 5 minutes.
2. Combine the sugar, corn syrup, and 1/2 cup of water in a medium saucepan. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the lemon juice and softened gelatin. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the gelatin to dissolve.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish or a silicone candy mold. Let it cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
6. Once set, use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to cut the candy into desired shapes.
7. Dust with matcha powder before coating with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Lemon Drop Candy with Ginger Zing
Brighten up your day with these tangy and sweet lemon drops infused with a hint of spicy ginger zing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– Food coloring (yellow or green)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the mixture reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and grated ginger. Let the mixture cool slightly, until it reaches 275°F.
4. Pour the mixture onto a greased surface, such as a silicone mat or a piece of parchment paper. Let it cool and set for about 30-40 minutes.
5. Once set, use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to cut the candy into desired shapes. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Lemon Drop Candy Coated in Dark Chocolate
Elevate your candy game with this sweet and tangy treat, where bright citrus meets rich dark chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup lemon drops (about 20-25 candies)
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon shortening
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the chocolate chips and butter in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the shortening and vanilla extract.
4. Dip each lemon drop into the melted chocolate mixture, coating evenly.
5. Place the coated candies on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Lemon Drop Candy with Mint Infusion
A refreshing twist on the classic lemon drop candy, this recipe infuses the sweetness of citrus with the cooling essence of mint.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon citric acid
– A few sprigs of fresh mint leaves
Instructions:
1. Combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice, citric acid, and mint leaves. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Pour the mixture into a lightly oiled surface, such as a silicone mat or a piece of parchment paper. Allow it to cool and set completely, about 1 hour.
5. Once set, use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to shape into desired forms.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes + steeping time
Lemon Drop Candy with Vanilla Bean Specks
Brighten up your day with these tangy and sweet treats! This recipe combines the classic lemon drop candy with the added delight of vanilla bean specks.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 1 tablespoon (15g) unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Vanilla bean specks for garnish
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar, water, and butter in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish or pan lined with parchment paper.
5. Allow the mixture to cool and set at room temperature (about 30 minutes).
6. Once set, use a cookie cutter or sharp knife to cut out shapes. You can also simply break the candy into pieces.
7. Garnish with vanilla bean specks before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Lemon Drop Candy with Rosewater Essence
Experience the classic lemon drop candy infused with a subtle hint of rosewater essence, creating a unique and delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) water
– 1 tablespoon rosewater essence
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Confectioner’s glaze or powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Combine the sugar and water in a medium saucepan, heating over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the syrup reaches 300°F (hard-ball stage).
3. Remove from heat and stir in the rosewater essence and lemon juice.
4. Let the mixture cool slightly before pouring it onto a lightly greased surface, such as a silicone mat or parchment paper.
5. Allow the candy to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or until it has firmed up.
6. Dust with confectioner’s glaze or powdered sugar and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Lemon Drop Candy with Poppy Seed Crunch
Brighten up your day with these tangy and sweet lemon drops, topped with a crunchy poppy seed coating.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup poppy seeds
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine powdered sugar, lemon juice, corn syrup, and water. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
3. Pour the mixture onto a greased surface, such as a silicone mat or parchment paper. Let set at room temperature for about 30 minutes or until firm to the touch.
4. Once set, use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to cut into desired shapes.
5. In a small bowl, mix together white granulated sugar and softened butter until well combined.
6. Roll the lemon drops in the sugar mixture to coat, then roll in poppy seeds to sprinkle evenly.
7. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: About 30 minutes (including cooling time)
Summary
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with these 18 zesty lemon drop candy recipes! From classic homemade treats to innovative flavor twists, this collection has something for every lemon lover. Try adding honey infusion, chili lime twist, or lavender essence to give your candies an extra boost of flavor. Or, go for a fun texture change by making gummies, marshmallow candies, or coating them in dark chocolate. Whether you’re vegan or just looking for a new treat to share with friends, these recipes are sure to please.
