ADVERTISEMENT
Prepare the Lemons: Zest and juice the lemons, ensuring you have about 2 tablespoons of zest and ⅔ cup of juice. Strain the juice to remove seeds and pulp.
Cook the Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, lemon juice, and zest. Stir over low heat until the sugar dissolves (about 5 minutes). Increase the heat to bring it to a simmer and cook without stirring until the mixture reaches 250°F (hard ball stage).
Add Color (Optional): Once removed from the heat, add food coloring if desired. This will give your lemon drops a bright, vibrant yellow color.
Mold the Candies: Pour the mixture into silicone molds or onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let it cool for 30–60 minutes until firm.
Cut and Dust: If using a baking sheet, cut the candy into bite-sized pieces once set. Toss the candies in cornstarch to prevent them from sticking.
Serving and Storage Tips:
ADVERTISEMENT