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 goods and 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

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

Dry them with a clean towel.

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:

Preheat oven to 50–60°C (120–140°F).

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

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

Option 2 – Using a Dehydrator:

Arrange peels on dehydrator trays.

Dry at 50°C (122°F) for 8–10 hours.

Step 3: Grind into Powder

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

Pulse until a fine powder forms.

Sift if needed to remove larger bits.

Step 4: Store

Transfer the powder to an airtight glass jar.

Keep in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.

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.