Making lemon powder at home is a great way to preserve lemon flavor for later use in baking, seasoning, teas, and more. Here’s how to do it step-by-step:
🍋 How to Make Lemon Powder
✅ What You Need:
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Fresh lemons (organic if possible)
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Sharp knife or vegetable peeler
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Dehydrator or oven
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Blender, spice grinder, or food processor
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Fine-mesh sieve (optional)
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Airtight container for storage
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Wash & Dry Lemons
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Rinse lemons thoroughly to remove wax and dirt.
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Dry them completely with a clean towel.
2. Peel or Slice
You have two options:
A. Peel method (best for zest powder):
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Use a vegetable peeler to remove the outer yellow skin only — avoid the white pith (it’s bitter).
B. Slice method (for full lemon powder):
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Slice lemons thinly (⅛ inch or thinner) with peel on. Remove seeds.
3. Dry the Peels or Slices
Dehydrator:
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Set to 95–115°F (35–46°C) for zest or 125°F (52°C) for slices.
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Dry for 6–12 hours or until completely brittle.
Oven:
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Place peels/slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment.
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Set oven to lowest temp (around 170°F / 75°C or “warm” setting).
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Prop the door open slightly to let moisture escape.
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Bake for 2–4 hours, flipping occasionally, until dry and brittle.
Tip: Peels dry faster than slices and make a more concentrated powder.
4. Grind
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Once fully dry, blend in a spice grinder, coffee grinder, or high-speed blender.
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Grind to a fine powder.
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For ultra-smooth powder, sift through a fine-mesh sieve.
5. Store
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Store in an airtight jar in a cool, dark place.
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Use within 3–6 months for best flavor.
🍋 Uses for Lemon Powder:
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Add to baked goods (muffins, cookies, cakes)
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Sprinkle on fish or chicken
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Stir into salad dressings or marinades
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Mix into teas or smoothies
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Make lemon sugar or lemon salt
