As I walked through my bustling kitchen, the vibrant scent of citrus caught my attention. It reminded me of sunny afternoons spent with my grandmother, who had an uncanny ability to turn the simplest ingredients into something extraordinary. That’s how I stumbled upon the joy of making Candied Lemon Slices—a delightful treat that offers a burst of flavor in every bite! Perfect as a garnish for desserts or simply enjoyed on their own, these sweet and tangy slices are a true testament to the beauty of homemade cooking.
Jump to:
The best part? With just a few fresh lemons, sugar, and a sprinkle of mint, you can create a stunning treat that elevates any dish. Whether you’re looking for a unique way to impress guests or just want to add a touch of sunshine to your day, you’ll find this recipe to be as easy as it is gratifying. Ready to transform your kitchen into a haven of citrusy bliss? Let’s dive into this wonderfully simple recipe!
Why You'll Love This Candied Lemon Slices
- This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
- The burst of sweet and tangy flavor in each slice will delight your taste buds and add a refreshing twist to any dish.
- These candied lemon slices are versatile, perfect as a garnish for desserts, part of a cheese platter, or enjoyed on their own as a snack.
- With only 30 minutes from start to finish, this time-saving treat is ideal for last-minute gatherings or cozy afternoons at home.
Candied Lemon Slices Ingredients
Get ready to whip up some delightful treats!
For the Citrus
• 4 lemons – Fresh lemons bring the zingy flavor that makes candied lemon slices so irresistible.
For the Syrup
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetness is the key; it balances the tartness of the lemons perfectly.
• 1 cup water – The essential binding element that helps create the syrup for your candied lemon slices.
• 1 pinch sea salt – Just a dash enhances the overall flavor profile, bringing out the lemon’s natural brightness.
For Garnish
• 1 bunch mint leaves – Fresh mint not only adds color, but it also uplifts the citrus notes beautifully.
Now that you’re equipped with all the delicious ingredients, let’s get started on this sweet journey!
How to Make Candied Lemon Slices
Slice the lemons into thin rounds, aiming for about 1/8 inch thick. This thickness ensures they candy evenly and soak up the syrup beautifully. Warm, sunny yellow slices will brighten your kitchen as you work!
Combine sugar and water in a saucepan, stirring well. Heat over medium-high until the mixture reaches a gentle boil. Watch for that bubbling magic; it’s the first step in creating your sweet syrup.
Add the lemon slices carefully to the boiling mixture. Lower the heat slightly, letting the citrus soften in the syrup. You want a tender texture, which usually takes about 20 minutes of simmering.
Remove the lemon slices with a slotted spoon when they’re tender and the syrup has thickened. Allow them to cool on a wire rack, channeling your inner pastry chef as they rest and set.
Garnish with mint leaves right before serving to add a refreshing touch. The vibrant green against the beautiful yellow makes for an eye-catching presentation!
Optional: Serve these candied slices on a platter for a delightful snack or dessert garnish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Candied Lemon Slices are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the lemon slices and syrup up to 24 hours in advance, reducing stress during your busy cooking days. Simply follow the initial steps of the recipe, boiling the lemons in syrup, and allow them to cool completely. After cooling, store the slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their quality and freshness. When you’re ready to serve, just take them out and garnish with fresh mint leaves for that final touch. This way, you can enjoy delicious, vibrant flavors without the last-minute rush!
Candied Lemon Slices Variations
Feel free to get creative with your candied lemon slices—there’s a world of possibilities out there waiting for you to explore!
Grapefruit Swap: Substitute grapefruit slices for a slightly more bitter, yet equally delightful, citrus flavor.
Herbal Infusion: Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the syrup as it simmers for a savory twist that pairs beautifully with desserts.
Spicy Kick: Introduce a pinch of red pepper flakes to the syrup for a zesty surprise that elevates your candied slices.
Nutty Crunch: Once cooled, sprinkle crushed pistachios or almonds over the lemon slices for an added crunch and flavor contrast.
Honey Option: Swap granulated sugar for honey in the syrup for a more caramel-like taste that balances the tartness of the lemons.
** chocolate Dip:** Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled slices for an indulgent, decadent treat that combines sweet and bitter flavors.
Zest Surprise: Mix in a tablespoon of orange or lime zest to the syrup for an extra layer of citrusy complexity that makes each slice sing.
Coconut Bliss: For a tropical flair, toss some shredded coconut onto the lemon slices while they cool for added texture and sweetness.
How to Store and Freeze Candied Lemon Slices
Room Temperature: Store candied lemon slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and texture.
Fridge: For longer storage, keep the slices in the fridge in a sealed container. They can stay fresh for up to 1 week, ready to elevate your dishes at a moment’s notice.
Freezer: To freeze, layer the slices between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 3 months. Just thaw and enjoy whenever you need a citrusy treat!
Reheating: Although best enjoyed cold, you can gently reheat the slices in a saucepan for a few minutes to soften them slightly before serving atop desserts or savory dishes.
What to Serve with Candied Lemon Slices?
Elevate your meals with these delightful pairings that beautifully complement the vibrant sweetness of candied lemon slices.
Pound Cake: This moist, buttery cake is the perfect canvas for those tangy slices, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
Greek Yogurt Parfait: The creamy tanginess of yogurt balances the sweetness, while fresh fruits add a pop of color and texture.
Herb-Infused Chicken: A savory herb chicken dish pairs excellently with the bright citrus, enhancing both the sweet and savory notes of your meal.
Tea: A warm cup of Earl Grey or chamomile tea perfectly complements the sweet-tart flavors, making for a soothing afternoon snack.
Cheese Platter: Include rich cheeses like Brie or sharp Cheddar; the contrast in flavors creates an unforgettable grazing experience.
Sparkling Water: Add a splash of lemon to sparkling water for a refreshing and zesty drink that mirrors the flavors of your dessert.
Each pairing not only enhances the candied lemon slices but also brings warmth and vibrancy to your dining experience. Enjoy the cheerful burst of citrus with every bite!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making candied lemon slices, ensure you slice the lemons uniformly to about 1/8 inch thick for even candying.
- Avoid boiling the syrup too vigorously as it can cause the sugar to crystallize instead of creating a smooth syrup.
- For maximum flavor, use fresh lemons and don’t skip the pinch of sea salt as it enhances the sweetness.
- Keep an eye on the simmering time and stir gently to avoid sticking, while checking that the lemon slices are tender after about 20 minutes.
Candied Lemon Slices Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best lemons for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for lemons that are vibrant yellow, firm to the touch, and free from dark spots or blemishes. The perfect lemons for candied lemon slices will feel heavy for their size, indicating juiciness. If possible, select organic lemons as they often have thicker skins that hold up well during candying.
How should I store leftover candied lemon slices?
For optimal storage, place your candied lemon slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, transfer them to the fridge in a sealed container where they will last up to 1 week. If you’ve made a large batch, you can also freeze them!
Can I freeze candied lemon slices? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze candied lemon slices! Start by layering the slices between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, making sure they don’t stick together. Seal the container tightly and pop it in the freezer; they’ll keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
What should I do if my lemon slices are not candying properly?
Very! If your slices aren’t candying as expected, check a few aspects: First, ensure you’re using the right thickness of around 1/8 inch. If they’re too thick, they won’t soften properly. Next, make sure your syrup isn’t boiling too aggressively; a gentle simmer is crucial for tender slices. If they still seem tough after 20 minutes, simmer for an additional 5 minutes while keeping a close eye on them for tenderness.
Are candied lemon slices safe for pets?
It’s wise to be cautious! While lemons are non-toxic to pets, the high sugar content in candied lemon slices may be problematic. It’s best not to share these treats with your furry friends, as they could potentially upset their stomachs. Always consult your veterinarian if you have specific concerns about pet allergies or dietary restrictions.
Candied Lemon Slices
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Slice the lemons into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick.
- Combine sugar and water in a saucepan, stirring well. Heat over medium-high until it reaches a gentle boil.
- Add lemon slices to the boiling mixture. Lower the heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Remove the slices with a slotted spoon when tender and the syrup has thickened. Cool on a wire rack.
- Garnish with mint leaves before serving.
