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Close-up of candied lemon slices on a gray surface with sugar crystals.

How To Make Candied Lemon Slices

These easy candied lemon slices are made with just 4 simple ingredients and are perfect for decorating cakes, cupcakes, cheesecakes, drinks and more. They're sweet, glossy, edible and a delicious way to use extra lemons.
4.98 from 146 votes
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Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 16
Calories: 54kcal
Author: Megan Porta

Video

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 3 large lemons sliced to 1/8-inch thickness
Text Ingredients

Instructions

  • Slice the lemons. Using a mandoline or a sharp knife, slice the lemons into 1/8-inch-thick rounds. Remove any seeds as you go.
    3 large lemons
  • Make the syrup. In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, water and lemon juice and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, then add the lemon slices in a single layer.
    1 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup water, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • Candy the lemons. Simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping the slices once or twice as they cook. At 15 minutes, the slices should be tender and translucent with a bright yellow color. For a deeper golden-yellow color, continue simmering for up to 5 additional minutes. Watch them closely toward the end, as cooking much beyond 20 minutes can cause the slices to brown.
  • Cool. Using tongs or a slotted spoon, transfer the lemon slices to a wire rack or wax paper. Let cool completely before using or storing.

Notes

  • Use a mandoline. It creates uniform 1/8-inch slices that cook evenly.
  • Don't overcrowd the pan. Arrange the slices in a single layer whenever possible.
  • Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks, placing parchment or wax paper between layers if stacking.
  • Customize it: This method also works with oranges, limes and grapefruit.
    Use a mandoline to slice the lemons into uniform 1/8-inch rounds. Even slices cook evenly and create the prettiest candied lemon slices.

Nutrition

Calories: 54kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 0.2g | Fat: 0.1g | Saturated Fat: 0.01g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.003g | Sodium: 1mg | Potassium: 30mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 5IU | Vitamin C: 11mg | Calcium: 6mg | Iron: 0.1mg
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