Transform simple lemon peel into a sophisticated confection with this classic candied zest recipe. By simmering the zest in a sugar syrup, you mellow the bitterness while retaining that bright, aromatic citrus punch. The result is a translucent, jewel-toned garnish that adds both visual appeal and a burst of flavor to cakes, cookies, and holiday treats. These versatile strips are equally at home sprinkled over dark chocolate ganache or used to rim a glass of margarita. While often associated with festive baking, candied lemon zest is a wonderful year-round addition to your pantry. The process is straightforward, requiring only fresh lemons, sugar, and water, making it an accessible project for home cooks looking to elevate their baking game with homemade ingredients.
Candied Lemon Zest
Description
Transform simple lemon peel into a sophisticated confection with this classic candied zest recipe. By simmering the zest in a sugar syrup, you mellow the bitterness while retaining that bright, aromatic citrus punch. The result is a translucent, jewel-toned garnish that adds both visual appeal and a burst of flavor to cakes, cookies, and holiday treats. These versatile strips are equally at home sprinkled over dark chocolate ganache or used to rim a glass of margarita. While often associated with festive baking, candied lemon zest is a wonderful year-round addition to your pantry. The process is straightforward, requiring only fresh lemons, sugar, and water, making it an accessible project for home cooks looking to elevate their baking game with homemade ingredients.Ingredients
Directions
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Using a vegetable peeler, remove long, thin strips of zest from the lemon, taking care to include only the yellow skin and avoiding the bitter white pith.
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Cut the zest strips into thin julienne strips, approximately 3 to 4 inches long.
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Place the zest in a small saucepan and cover completely with cold water.
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Bring the water to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat and cook for 7 minutes to remove bitterness.
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Drain the water from the saucepan thoroughly.
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Return the drained zest strips to the saucepan and add 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1/2 cup of fresh water.
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Bring the mixture back to a simmer over medium heat.
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Reduce heat to low and simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the zest becomes translucent and the syrup thickens slightly, about 10 to 15 minutes.
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Using a slotted spoon, transfer the candied zest strips to a sheet of parchment or wax paper to cool and dry.
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Let cool completely at room temperature before storing in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 120.3kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.0g0%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 0.6mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 31.3g11%
- Dietary Fiber 0.4g2%
- Sugars 30.4g
- Protein 0.2g1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
