Making Lemon Powder Is Very Easy: Step-by-Step Recipe
Lemon powder is a zesty, fragrant, and versatile ingredient that you can use in cooking, baking, seasoning, or even skincare. It’s a great way to reduce food waste and get the most out of your lemons — including the peels!
✅ Why Make Lemon Powder?
Long shelf life
Preserves all the natural lemon flavor and aroma
Adds tangy zest to recipes, drinks, teas, marinades, and spice blends
Can be used in homemade beauty products
📝 Ingredients:
Organic lemons (as many as you want)
🍃 Using organic lemons is best since you’ll be using the peels.
🍽️ Equipment Needed:
Sharp knife or vegetable peeler
Dehydrator or oven
Blender, spice grinder, or food processor
Airtight container or spice jar
👩🍳 How to Make Lemon Powder:
- Wash the Lemons
Scrub your lemons under warm water to remove any wax or residue. - Peel or Slice the Lemons
You have two options:
Peel Only Method: Peel the zest (yellow part only, avoid the bitter white pith) with a vegetable peeler.
Whole Slice Method: Slice lemons thinly, including flesh and peel, for a more full-bodied lemon powder.
- Dry the Peels or Slices
Option A: Using a Dehydrator
Set dehydrator to 95°F to 115°F (35°C to 46°C).
Dry for 8–12 hours, or until completely crisp.
Option B: Using an Oven
Preheat oven to 170°F (75°C) or the lowest setting.
Place peels/slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Dry in the oven for 2–4 hours, flipping halfway through.
Keep the door slightly open to allow moisture to escape.
✅ They should snap and break, not bend. Make sure there is no moisture left. - Cool Completely
Let the dried lemon peels or slices cool before grinding. This prevents clumping and preserves flavor. - Grind into Powder
Use a spice grinder, coffee grinder, or blender to grind the dried lemons into a fine powder.
🧂 Sift the powder if you want a finer texture.
- Store Properly
Store lemon powder in an airtight jar or container.
Keep in a cool, dark place to maintain its color and flavor.
Lasts up to 1 year if stored correctly.
🍴 How to Use Lemon Powder:
Sprinkle on fish, chicken, or roasted vegetables
Add to smoothies, tea, or salad dressings
Use in baking (cookies, cakes, muffins)
Mix into salt or sugar for lemon-flavored seasoning
Add to DIY face masks or scrubs for a natural skin-brightening boost
🌟 Tip:
You can also make lime, orange, or grapefruit powder the exact same way!