Homemade Ginger Lemon Cough Drops Recipe
These homemade cough drops are a natural remedy combining soothing honey and ginger with the warming spice of cinnamon and a bright hint of lemon. Perfect for calming sore throats and coughs, they are easy to make and free from artificial additives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 40 small cough drops 1x
- Category: Confectionery
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
Scale
Liquid Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Flavorings
- 2 inch piece fresh ginger (peeled and finely grated)
- Zest of 1 lemon or 2-3 drops food-grade lemon essential oil (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare workspace: Lay parchment paper under candy molds to prevent sticking and ease removal of the cough drops once hardened.
- Combine ingredients: In a saucepan, mix honey, sugar, water, finely grated fresh ginger, ground cinnamon, lemon juice, and lemon zest (if using) over medium-high heat.
- Heat mixture: Stir frequently while heating until the mixture reaches 300°F, the hard crack stage, as measured with a candy thermometer. This ensures the drops will harden properly.
- Remove from heat: Take the saucepan off the heat and allow the bubbles to subside for a few minutes to avoid air pockets in the candies.
- Add essential oil if using: Stir in 2-3 drops of food-grade lemon essential oil now if you prefer this over lemon zest for flavor.
- Fill molds: Carefully spoon the hot syrup into prepared candy molds, being cautious as the mixture is very hot.
- Harden: Let the cough drops cool completely and harden for 30 to 60 minutes at room temperature.
- Storage: Once hardened, remove the drops from molds and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep fresh for up to 6 months.
Notes
- Use a reliable candy thermometer for precise temperature measurement.
- Ensure your candy molds are heat-resistant and non-stick.
- Substitute lemon zest with lemon essential oil for a stronger lemon flavor.
- Be very careful handling hot syrup to avoid burns.
- Refrigeration helps maintain firmness and prolong shelf life.
Keywords: homemade cough drops, natural cough remedy, honey ginger cough drops, DIY sore throat lozenges
