Candied Lemon Peel

By Olivia

Candied Lemon Peel: A Sweet and Zesty Treat

Quick Benefits

Candied lemon peel is a delicious way to use up citrus rinds while adding a burst of tangy sweetness to your desserts. It can be enjoyed on its own, used as a garnish for baked goods, or stirred into tea for a hint of citrus flavor. This method works with any citrus fruit, making it a versatile and easy-to-make treat with minimal ingredients.

Essential Ingredients

3 lemons
8 cups cold water (or as needed)
2 cups white sugar (or as needed)

Preparation Steps

Prepare the Peels: Slice lemons into 1/4-inch thick rings and remove the fruit pulp. Cut the rings in half to form long strips.
Boil & Drain: Bring water to a boil in a small pan, add lemon peels, then drain. Repeat this process three times to reduce bitterness.
Make the Sugar Syrup: In a clean pot, bring 2 cups fresh water and 2 cups sugar to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
Candy the Peels: Reduce heat to low, add the drained lemon peels, and let them simmer until the white pith turns translucent.
Storage Options:
- For soft candied peel: Store peels in the syrup in the refrigerator.
- For dry candied peel: Strain peels from syrup, let them dry, then toss in additional sugar before storing in an airtight container at room temperature.

Health Benefits

Rich in Vitamin C: Provides 17mg per serving, boosting immunity.
Zero Fat & Low Sodium: A naturally fat-free and low-sodium treat.
Good Source of Fiber: Helps with digestion.
Natural Flavor Enhancer: A healthier alternative to artificial flavorings in baked goods.

Serving Suggestions

As a Snack: Eat as a sweet treat with coffee or tea.
Garnish Desserts: Use on cakes, cookies, or cupcakes.
In Baked Goods: Chop and mix into muffins, scones, or bread.
Cocktail Garnish: Use as a decorative and flavorful addition to drinks.
Tea Infusion: Stir into hot tea for an extra citrusy boost.

Creative Variations

Spiced Orange Peel: Use orange peels with a hint of cloves or cinnamon.
Boozy Candied Peel: Add a splash of brandy while simmering for depth of flavor.
Grapefruit Twist: Requires more boiling steps to remove bitterness but yields a unique citrus flavor.
Chocolate-Dipped Lemon Peel: After drying, dip in melted dark or white chocolate for an indulgent treat.

Storage Tips

In Syrup: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Dried with Sugar: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 month.
Freezing: Store in a sealed bag in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Pro Tips

Change the Water Thoroughly: Boiling the peels multiple times removes bitterness.
Use a Slotted Spoon: When removing peels from syrup to avoid excess sugar.
Let Peels Dry Properly: If drying with sugar, ensure they don’t clump together.
Experiment with Citrus: Try using lime, orange, or grapefruit peels for different flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other citrus peels?

Yes! This method works for oranges, grapefruits, and limes.

Why do I need to boil the peels multiple times?

It removes the bitterness, especially for lemons and grapefruits.

How do I make these peels less sweet?

Use less sugar or rinse them briefly after candying.

Can I reuse the syrup?

Yes! The syrup is infused with citrus flavor and can be used in cocktails, tea, or desserts.

How do I know when the peels are done?

They should appear translucent and slightly sticky.

Candied lemon peel is a simple yet delightful way to add a zesty touch to your favorite treats. Whether enjoyed on its own or incorporated into baked goods, it’s a great way to reduce food waste and make something delicious!