Ah, the sweet and tangy taste of lemon drop candies – who can resist their allure? Whether you’re a candy enthusiast or just looking for a refreshing treat to brighten up your day, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be diving into 20 mouthwatering lemon drop candy recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
From classic homemade candies to creative twists on traditional treats, these sweet and tangy confections will satisfy any lemon lover’s cravings. With flavors ranging from bright and citrusy to rich and indulgent, there’s something for everyone in this collection of lemon drop candy recipes. So go ahead, indulge in the tartness and sweetness, and get ready to pucker up with our irresistible lineup of 20 tangy lemon drop candies!
Homemade Lemon Drop Hard Candies
Make your own tart and tangy lemon drops at home with this simple recipe. With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you’ll be enjoying these sweet treats in no time.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 1/4 cup (60ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon (15g) unflavored gelatin
• Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
2. Combine the sugar, lemon juice, and 1/2 cup of water in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the candy reaches 300°F (hard-ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the softened gelatin until fully incorporated.
5. Pour the hot candy mixture onto a silicone mat or parchment paper. Let it cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Zesty Lemon Drop Gummies
Sour and sweet, these bite-sized gummies are a refreshing twist on traditional candies. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a fun treat for kids.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 1 teaspoon citric acid (optional)
– Food coloring (yellow and white)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, honey, lemon juice, and 1/2 cup of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Add the softened gelatin to the saucepan and stir until fully incorporated.
4. Remove from heat and add citric acid (if using). Let it cool slightly.
5. Pour the mixture into a silicone candy mold or a 9×13 inch baking dish. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-bake recipe!
Lemon Drop Candy Cookies with White Chocolate Drizzle
Brighten up your day with these sweet and tangy lemon drop cookies, topped with a rich white chocolate drizzle. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– White chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by lemon juice and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Drizzle with melted white chocolate and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vegan Lemon Drop Marshmallow Treats
Brighten up your snack time with these sweet and tangy vegan lemon drop marshmallow treats!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vegan marshmallows (such as Dandies)
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips (such as Enjoy Life)
– Lemon zest, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until well combined.
2. Dip each marshmallow into the lemon mixture, coating completely.
3. Place coated marshmallows on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl.
5. Dip the lemon-coated marshmallows into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
6. Place dipped treats on a piece of parchment paper or a silicone mat.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
Cooking Time: None required! Just assemble and chill.
Lemon Drop Candy Fudge with Crushed Graham Crackers
Brighten up your day with this tangy-sweet treat that combines the flavors of lemon and graham crackers. This simple fudge recipe is perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 12-14 Lemon Drop candies, crushed
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine butter and granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in powdered sugar, lemon extract, and salt until smooth.
5. Fold in crushed graham crackers and Lemon Drop candies.
6. Pour into prepared baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
Cooking Time: None needed! This fudge requires no cooking time, just chilling time to set.
Sparkling Lemon Drop Candy Bark
Brighten up your day with this refreshing and flavorful candy bark recipe. Sparkling lemon drops add a burst of citrusy fun to rich, creamy milk chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup sparkling lemon drops (candy pieces)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Optional: edible gold dust or sprinkles for garnish
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the milk chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Pour the melted milk chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet.
4. Melt the white chocolate chips and spread evenly over the milk chocolate layer.
5. Sprinkle the sparkling lemon drops over the white chocolate layer.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
7. Break into pieces and garnish with edible gold dust or sprinkles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including setting time)
Lemon Drop Candy-Coated Popcorn Balls
Brighten up your snack time with these sweet and tangy treats!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup lemon drop candies (crushed)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels according to package instructions.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter until combined.
4. Pour the sugar mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until coated.
5. Using your hands or a spatula, shape the popcorn mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
6. Roll each ball in crushed lemon drop candies to coat.
7. Place the candy-coated popcorn balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! These treats are best served fresh.
Lemon Drop Candy Cheesecake Bites
Lemon Drop Candy Cheesecake Bites: A Sweet Treat That Combines the Flavors of Tart Lemon with Rich Cheesecake and Crumbly Graham Cracker Crust.
These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a sweet indulgence. With a short ingredient list and easy instructions, you can have these delicious morsels ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup lemon drop candies, crushed
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until combined.
3. Press about 1 tablespoon of crumb mixture into each liner.
4. Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Spoon cheesecake mixture into each liner, topping with crushed lemon drop candies.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are set. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Yield: 24 bites
Soft & Chewy Lemon Drop Candy Caramels
These sweet and tangy treats combine the classic flavors of lemon drop candies with the smooth, chewy texture of caramel. Perfect for a special occasion or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract
– Lemon zest and yellow candy melts (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, sugar, corn syrup, and sea salt. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 248°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in butter and lemon extract until melted and smooth.
4. Pour into prepared baking dish and let cool to room temperature.
5. Once set, remove from pan and cut into desired shapes.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Drop Candy-Infused Shortbread Cookies
Elevate your shortbread game with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon drop candies. These buttery cookies are infused with the sweet and tangy essence of lemon drops, perfect for a delightful treat or gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 6-8 lemon drop candies, crushed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add flour, salt, and lemon zest; mix until a dough forms.
4. Stir in crushed lemon drop candies and lemon juice.
5. Roll out dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Drop Candy Truffles with Citrus Glaze
A refreshing twist on traditional truffles, these bite-sized treats combine the sweetness of lemon drops with the tanginess of citrus glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup crushed lemon drops (about 20-25 candies)
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Citrus Glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine crushed lemon drops and powdered sugar.
2. Add the softened cream cheese and mix until well combined.
3. Stir in lemon juice and salt.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to shape mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Place truffles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for another 30 minutes.
Citrus Glaze:
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon orange juice
Whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and orange juice until smooth. Drizzle over chilled truffles before serving.
Cooking Time: None (chilling time only)
Lemon Drop Candy Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting
Add a burst of citrus flavor to your cupcake game with these moist and tangy Lemon Drop Candy Cupcakes, topped with a rich and creamy buttercream frosting.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients; mix until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting.
Buttercream Frosting:
1. Beat 1/2 cup unsalted butter and 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar until smooth.
2. Add 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; mix until combined.
3. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Lemon Drop Candy-Stuffed Chocolate Bonbons
Elevate your chocolate game with these bite-sized treats, combining the brightness of lemon drops with rich, velvety chocolate. Perfect for any occasion, these bonbons are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120g) white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup (30g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) lemon drop candies, finely chopped
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Melt the dark and white chocolate chips in separate double boilers or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and salt.
3. Dip a fork into one of the melted chocolates and then scoop up a small amount of sugar mixture. Roll the mixture into a ball and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat with remaining chocolate and sugar mixture.
4. Once set, use a toothpick to create a hole in each bonbon, just large enough to insert a chopped lemon drop candy.
5. Place a lemon drop candy inside each bonbon and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: None required; these bonbons set at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Lemon Drop Candy Rice Krispie Treats
Brighten up your snack time with these citrusy treats that combine the classic flavors of Lemon Drop candies and Rice Krispies cereal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter or margarine, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup Lemon Drop candies, crushed
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter or margarine over low heat.
2. Add the marshmallows and stir until they are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Add the crushed Lemon Drop candies and stir until well combined.
5. Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Allow to cool and harden before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes, depending on the desired level of firmness.
Lemon Drop Candy Brittle with Toasted Almonds
A sweet and tangy treat that combines the brightness of lemon with the crunch of toasted almonds, this candy brittle is perfect for snacking or as a gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup (60ml) water
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon yellow food coloring
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120g) toasted almonds, chopped
– Lemon zest for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line a large plate or tray with parchment paper.
2. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, yellow food coloring, baking soda, and salt.
5. Pour mixture onto prepared plate or tray. Let cool and set at room temperature (about 30-40 minutes).
6. Break into pieces and sprinkle with toasted almonds.
7. Garnish with lemon zest, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Drop Candy Granola Bars
Take a break from the ordinary with these sweet and tangy granola bars, infused with the zesty flavor of lemon drop candy. Perfect for a quick snack or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup lemon drop candy, crushed
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, nuts, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together honey, vanilla extract, and crushed lemon drop candy.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
5. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Drop Candy Macarons with Lemon Curd Filling
Experience the perfect blend of tangy and sweet with these Lemon Drop Candy Macarons filled with a rich Lemon Curd. A refreshing twist on the classic macaron, these bite-sized treats are sure to brighten up any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the shells:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) almond flour
– 1 1/2 cups (200g) powdered sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– Food coloring (yellow and white)
– Lemon extract
For the lemon curd:
– 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Make the shells by whipping egg whites and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form. Add food coloring and lemon extract.
3. Fold in almond flour and powdered sugar.
4. Pipe onto prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until firm to the touch.
6. Allow shells to cool completely.
7. Make the lemon curd by whisking together butter, sugar, egg yolks, lemon juice, and zest.
8. Sandwich a dollop of lemon curd between two cooled macaron shells.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Drop Candy Pavlova with Whipped Cream Topping
Brighten up your dessert table with this refreshing and light pavlova, infused with the sweetness of lemon drops and topped with a dollop of whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water
– 1/4 cup lemon drops, crushed
– Whipped cream for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Add flour and salt; whisk until combined.
4. Gradually add cold water; whisk until smooth.
5. Fold in crushed lemon drops.
6. Spoon meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet, forming a round shape.
7. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until crisp on the outside and chewy inside.
8. Allow to cool completely before topping with whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Lemon Drop Candy Ice Cream Sandwiches
Sweeten up your day with these refreshing lemon drop candy ice cream sandwiches! Crunchy cookies, creamy ice cream, and tart lemon drops come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint of vanilla ice cream
– 12-16 lemon drop candies, crushed
– 6-8 lemon-flavored sandwich cookies (such as Nilla Wafers)
– Whipped cream and additional lemon drops for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Scoop the vanilla ice cream into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Dip each ice cream ball into the crushed lemon drop candies, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Place a scoop of the candy-coated ice cream between two lemon-flavored sandwich cookies.
4. Press gently to create a sandwich.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None! Assemble and serve at your convenience.
Lemon Drop Candy-Studded Banana Bread
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional banana bread, this recipe adds a burst of citrus flavor from lemon drops to the classic moistness of ripe bananas.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup lemon drops, crushed
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in crushed lemon drops.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before transferring to a plate.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Summary
Get ready to pucker up with these irresistible lemon drop candy recipes! From classic hard candies and gummies to creative twists like cheesecake bites and rice krispie treats, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in sweet and tangy treats like fudge, cookies, and marshmallow treats, or get a little fancier with truffles, macarons, and ice cream sandwiches. Whatever your taste buds desire, these 20 recipes are sure to satisfy your lemon drop craving.
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