How To Candy Lemon Slices

These candied lemon slices are incredibly EASY to make. They make the most beautiful edible garnish for desserts like cakes, pies, or cupcakes, AND can be eaten just like a piece of candy!

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Keyword cake decoration, candied lemon slices, candied lemons, candy, decoration, lemon

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Servings to 20 slices

Calories 82kcal

Author Jesseca

Equipment

Ingredients

2 lemons regular OR Meyer, washed and sliced
1 cup sugar
1 cup water

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Start by thoroughly washing your lemons to remove any wax or residue—especially important if they’re not organic.
Using a very sharp knife or mandoline, slice the lemons into thin, even rounds (about 1/8 inch thick). Set the slices aside.
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved—this usually takes 2–3 minutes.
Carefully add the lemon slices to the simmering syrup. Lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer and cook the slices for 30 to 40 minutes.
They’re done when they look soft, glossy, and translucent. Avoid stirring too much, as this can cause the slices to break apart.
Using a slotted spoon or tongs, gently remove the slices from the syrup and place them in a single layer on a sheet of parchment paper. Let them cool at room temperature until fully dried—this can take several hours, but overnight is ideal for the best texture.

Video

Notes

Use a mandoline for even slices. Uniform thickness ensures all your slices cook at the same rate and look more polished.
Simmer gently. A low, steady simmer helps prevent bitterness and keeps the slices from falling apart.
Let them dry completely. The longer they sit, the better the texture. Overnight drying gives you that perfect chewy finish.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Servings | Calories: 82kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Sodium: 1mg | Sugar: 20g