candied lemon peel recipe

The Best candied lemon peel recipe

I’ve always been fascinated by the art of candying citrus peel, and after experimenting with various recipes, I’ve finally found one that yields perfect results every time. This candied lemon peel recipe is a staple in my household, and I’m excited to share it with you. The process of making candied citrus peel is quite simple, yet it requires patience and attention to detail.

The key to success lies in the ratio of sugar to citrus, as well as the temperature control during the cooking process. The first time I made candied lemon peel was for a family gathering, and it was a huge hit. My kids loved helping me slice the lemons and watching the sugar syrup transform into a beautiful, crystalized glaze.

We used it as a garnish for our holiday desserts, and it added a delightful burst of citrus flavor to each bite. Candied lemon peel has been a part of many cuisines for centuries, particularly in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures. It’s often used as a topping for cakes, pastries, and other sweet treats.

In my household, we love using it as a decoration for special occasions or as a simple addition to our favorite recipes. One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can adjust the amount of sugar to your taste, and even add other citrus fruits like oranges or grapefruits for added flavor.

I also appreciate how easy it is to store and reheat, making it perfect for daily snacking or entertaining guests.

Candied Lemon Peel

Candied Lemon Peel

4.8 from 1672 votes

A sweet and tangy treat made from fresh lemon peels, simmered in a sugar syrup until tender and glossy. These candied peels are perfect for snacking, decorating desserts, or adding a citrusy burst to baked goods.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 120 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Lemon Peel

4 large organic lemons
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup water

For Coating

1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup superfine sugar (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Wash the lemons thoroughly and pat them dry.
2Use a vegetable peeler to remove the peel in wide strips, avoiding as much white pith as possible.
3Slice the peels lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick strips.
4Place the lemon peel strips in a medium saucepan and cover with cold water.
5Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for 10 minutes.
6Drain the water and repeat this blanching process once more to remove bitterness.
7In the same saucepan, combine 2 cups of granulated sugar and 1 cup of water.
8Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
9Add the blanched lemon peels, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer gently for 30 to 35 minutes, until the peels become translucent and the syrup thickens slightly.
10Using a slotted spoon, transfer the candied peels to a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
11Let them drain and cool for 10 minutes, until they are just slightly tacky to the touch.
12Place the remaining 1/2 cup of granulated sugar in a shallow bowl.
13Toss the warm peels in the sugar until evenly coated.
14For a finer finish, use superfine sugar for the final coating.
15Let the candied peels dry completely on the wire rack for at least 2 hours before storing.

🔧Equipment

Vegetable peeler
Sharp knife
Medium saucepan
Slotted spoon
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Wire rack

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 120 kcal🧈Total Fat: 0g💛Saturated Fat: 0g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 1mg🌾Total Carbs: 31g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 29g🥩Protein: 0g

📝Notes

Store candied lemon peels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator. Use organic lemons to avoid wax and pesticide residues.

Watch Video Of How Candied Lemon Peel Works

This candied lemon peel recipe has become a staple in my household due to its simplicity and versatility.

The process may seem intimidating at first, but trust me when I say that with practice and patience, you’ll be creating perfect candied citrus peel every time.

It’s perfect for decorating desserts or adding an extra layer of flavor to your favorite recipes.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Candied Lemon Peel

Q: What type of lemons are best suited for candying?

A: For this recipe, I recommend using Meyer lemons or Eureka lemons. Meyer lemons have a sweeter and less acidic flavor profile, which pairs perfectly with the sugar syrup. Eureka lemons have a more traditional lemon flavor and work well if you prefer a stronger citrus taste.

Q: Can I use other types of citrus fruits besides lemons?

A: Yes! While lemons are the most traditional choice for candying citrus peel, you can experiment with other citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, or even limes. Keep in mind that each fruit will produce a slightly different flavor profile.

Q: How do I ensure that my candied lemon peel is evenly coated with sugar?

A: To achieve an even coating, make sure to cook the sugar syrup until it reaches the soft-ball stage (around 300°F). Then, carefully pour the syrup over the cooled lemon peel slices while they’re still slightly sticky from being removed from boiling water.

Q: Can I make candied lemon peel ahead of time?

A: Yes! Candied lemon peel can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 6 weeks. Simply reheat it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes before serving.

Q: What’s the best way to store leftover candied lemon peel?

A: Store leftover candied lemon peel in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or refrigerate for up to 3 months. If stored properly, it will retain its texture and flavor without losing any sweetness or crunchiness.

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