Are you tired of store-bought cough drops filled with artificial ingredients and flavors? Discover the soothing power of nature with our Homemade Cough Drops featuring the delightful combination of honey and lemon! Not only are these drops a delicious remedy for sore throats, but they are also incredibly easy to make in just 20 minutes. Imagine having a stash of these sweet, tangy treats on hand whenever you need a little relief. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a comforting and effective solution that will have you feeling better in no time. Ready to impress your taste buds and boost your wellness? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 20 drops
Ingredients
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This will be used to cool and harden the cough drops.
- In a small saucepan, combine the honey, lemon juice, and water. Place the saucepan over medium heat and whisk until the honey has dissolved.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
- If using cayenne pepper, whisk it in during the last minute of cooking.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly, until the bubbles have subsided and the mixture has thickened slightly.
- Let the mixture cool and thicken for about 5 minutes, or until it has reached 275°F. This is important, as it will help the cough drops to set properly.
- Use a spoon or piping bag to drop small amounts of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. You should end up with around 20 drops.
- Let the cough drops cool and harden completely. This can take around 10-15 minutes, depending on the humidity and temperature of your environment.
- Once the cough drops have hardened, dust them with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
- Store the homemade cough drops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh lemon juice rather than bottled. The vibrant taste will elevate your cough drops significantly.
- Monitor Temperature Closely: A candy thermometer is essential for this recipe. Make sure to reach the correct temperatures (300°F for boiling and 275°F for thickening) to ensure your drops set properly.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other soothing ingredients like ginger or herbal extracts for an extra health boost. Just remember to adjust the quantities to maintain the right consistency.
- Dust with Care: When dusting with powdered sugar, do so lightly to avoid clumping. This will help keep your drops from sticking together.
- Storage Matters: To keep your cough drops fresh, store them in an airtight container away from direct sunlight. If you live in a humid area, consider placing a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
- Make a Batch Ahead: These cough drops are perfect for cold and flu season. Make a large batch and keep them on hand to share with family and friends!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 53kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
