Homemade Lemon Powder — A Tangy, All-Natural Pantry Staple

Lemon powder is a vibrant, tangy seasoning made by dehydrating lemon peel or whole lemons, then grinding them into a fine powder. This zesty kitchen essential adds a burst of citrus flavor to everything from baked goodsand teas to marinades, salad dressings, and even natural cleaning solutions.

Not only is it delicious and versatile, but it’s also a zero-waste way to make use of lemon peels that might otherwise be thrown away.

In this article, you’ll learn how to make lemon powder from scratch, store it for long-lasting freshness, and use it in creative ways.

 Ingredients

• Fresh lemons – 5 to 10 (organic if possible, since we’re using the peel)

• Optional: A pinch of salt or sugar (for flavor balance depending on intended use)

 Equipment Needed

• Vegetable peeler or sharp knife

• Baking sheet or dehydrator trays

• Oven or dehydrator

• Blender, spice grinder, or food processor

• Airtight glass jar for storage

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Lemons

1. Wash lemons thoroughly under warm water to remove dirt and any wax.

2. Dry them with a clean towel.

3. Using a vegetable peeler, carefully remove the peel, avoiding too much of the bitter white pith.

Step 2: Dry the Lemon Peels

Option 1 – Using an Oven:

1. Preheat oven to 50–60°C (120–140°F).

2. Place lemon peels in a single layer on a baking sheet.

3. Dry in the oven for 2–3 hours, flipping halfway through, until completely crisp.

Option 2 – Using a Dehydrator:

1. Arrange peels on dehydrator trays.

2. Dry at 50°C (122°F) for 8–10 hours.

Step 3: Grind into Powder

1. Once peels are fully dried, place them in a spice grinder or blender.

2. Pulse until a fine powder forms.

3. Sift if needed to remove larger bits.

Step 4: Store

1. Transfer the powder to an airtight glass jar.

2. Keep in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.

3. Properly stored, lemon powder can last up to 12 months.

Creative Ways to Use Lemon Powder

• Cooking: Sprinkle over grilled fish, chicken, or vegetables.

• Baking: Mix into cakes, muffins, or cookies for extra zing.

• Dressings & Marinades:Add to vinaigrettes and sauces.

• Beverages: Stir into tea, smoothies, or cocktails.

• Cleaning: Combine with baking soda for a natural, citrus-scented cleaner.

Benefits of Lemon Powder

• Rich in Vitamin C – boosts immunity and skin health.

• Natural Flavor Enhancer – no artificial additives or preservatives.

• Long Shelf Life – unlike fresh lemons, no quick spoilage.

• Zero Waste – makes full use of lemon peels.

Nutrition (Per Teaspoon)

• Calories: ~5 kcal

• Carbs: ~1.3 g

• Vitamin C: ~8–10% of daily needs

• Fat: 0 g

• Protein: 0 g

Conclusion

Homemade lemon powder is simple to make, long-lasting, and endlessly versatile. Whether you want to season savory dishes, brighten up baked goods, or freshen your home naturally, this tangy powder is a healthy alternative to store-bought flavorings.

By making it yourself, you’re saving money, reducing waste, and enjoying the pure taste of lemon all year round.