This is one of those wow recipes, simple yet impressive. Homemade dried lemons are incredibly fragrant, beautiful to look at, and amazingly versatile: perfect for cocktails, herbal teas, tea, but also to elegantly and naturally decorate cakes and desserts.
Since I started making them this way, I always keep them ready in the pantry: just a few ingredients, a bit of patience, and the result is truly surprising.
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- Difficulty: Very Easy
- Cost: Economical
- Preparation time: 10 Minutes
- Portions: 20/30
- Cooking methods: Oven
- Cuisine: Italian
- Seasonality: All seasons, Winter
Ingredients
- lemons
- sugar
Tools
Knife or mandoline
Paper towels
Baking tray
Parchment paper
Steps
For the preparation of dried lemons, watch the video HERE.
Wash the lemons very well, removing any impurities. Slice the lemons into very thin slices, preferably using a mandoline, so they cook evenly. Place the slices on paper towels and dry them thoroughly, then gently pat them with another sheet of paper to remove all excess moisture. Arrange the slices on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, without overlapping them. Lightly sprinkle with a little sugar (optional, but it gives a delicate note and an even shinier appearance). Bake in a fan-forced oven at 250°F for about 2 hours, turning the slices halfway through cooking. Once ready, let them cool completely: they will become dry, fragrant, and slightly crunchy.
Final result: And here are beautifully fragrant dried lemons, with a natural color and elegant appearance. A simple preparation that transforms a lemon into a truly special decorative and functional ingredient.
🍸 How to use them (wow ideas) In cocktails as a fragrant decoration
In herbal teas and teas for a natural aroma To decorate cakes, tarts, and Desserts In homemade gift jars For centerpieces and natural decorations
Wash the lemons very well, removing any impurities. Slice the lemons into very thin slices, preferably using a mandoline, so they cook evenly. Place the slices on paper towels and dry them thoroughly, then gently pat them with another sheet of paper to remove all excess moisture.
Arrange the slices on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, without overlapping them. Lightly sprinkle with a little sugar (optional, but it gives a delicate note and an even shinier appearance). Bake in a fan-forced oven at 250°F for about 2 hours, turning the slices halfway through cooking. Once ready, let them cool completely: they will become dry, fragrant, and slightly crunchy.
Final result
And here are beautifully fragrant dried lemons, with a natural color and elegant appearance. A simple preparation that transforms a lemon into a truly special decorative and functional ingredient.
🍸 How to use them (wow ideas)
In cocktails as a fragrant decoration
In herbal teas and teas for a natural aroma
To decorate cakes, tarts, and Desserts
In homemade gift jars
For centerpieces and natural decorations
Storage:
Store dried lemons in an airtight glass jar
Keep them in a cool, dry place
They last several weeks, maintaining their fragrance and color
FAQ (Questions and Answers)
Is sugar necessary?
No, it’s optional. Without sugar, the result will be more natural and slightly bitter.
Can I make them in a conventional oven?
Yes, but a fan-forced oven ensures more even drying.
Can they be made with other citrus fruits?Absolutely yes: oranges, limes, and grapefruit are perfect.
Why make them
They are beautiful and fragrant
Easy and natural
Perfect for cocktails, tea, and Desserts
Unique homemade gift idea
Wow recipe at zero cost
