Fresh lemons (organic preferred, since the peel is used)
Equipment:
A sharp vegetable peeler or knife
Baking sheet or dehydrator
Parchment paper (if oven-drying)
Blender, spice grinder, or mortar and pestle
Airtight glass jar or spice container for storage
Step-by-Step: How to Make Lemon Powder at Home
Step 1: Select the Right Lemons
Choose firm, bright yellow lemons with no blemishes or soft spots. Organic lemons are best since the peel won’t have wax or pesticide residue.
Step 2: Wash and Prep
Wash the lemons thoroughly under warm water. You can scrub them gently with a vegetable brush to remove any surface dirt or wax. Pat them dry with a clean towel.
Step 3: Peel the Lemons
Use a peeler to remove the outer yellow zest only, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. The zest is where the essential oils and concentrated flavor live.
Step 4: Dry the Peels
There are two easy methods to dry lemon peel:
Oven Method – Preheat your oven to the lowest setting (about 150–170°F / 65–75°C). Place peels on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 2–3 hours until completely dry and brittle.
Dehydrator Method – Place peels in a dehydrator set to 95–105°F (35–40°C) and dry for 8–12 hours.
Check that the peels snap when broken; if they bend, they need more drying time.
Step 5: Grind into Powder
Once the peels are fully dried, let them cool. Grind them in a spice grinder, blender, or mortar and pestle until you get a fine powder.
Step 6: Store Properly
Transfer the lemon powder into a clean, airtight glass jar. Store it in a cool, dark place. It will keep for up to 6–12 months, retaining most of its flavor and potency.
Tips + Tricks for Lemon Powder Success
Avoid the Pith – The white part of the peel is bitter and will make your powder unpleasant.
Make Small Batches – Fresher powder = brighter flavor. Grind only what you’ll use within a few months.
Experiment with Whole Lemons – Some people dehydrate thin slices of the whole lemon (peel and pulp), which produces a tangier powder.
Mix Citrus Varieties – Try mixing lemon peel with lime or orange for a custom citrus blend.
Boost Aroma – Add a pinch of sugar or salt when grinding if you plan to use the powder mainly in desserts or savory rubs.
How to Use Lemon Powder in Cooking
Continued on next page:
