There’s an unparalleled joy in creating your favourite treats right in the comfort of your home kitchen. For fans of that signature tang and fizz, making Sherbet Lemons might seem like a sweet dream. Duncan’s Sweet Shop, with its rich legacy in the world of sour sweets, is here to guide you on this zesty journey. Let’s unravel the secrets behind this iconic British candy.
Beginning with the Basics
The magic of Sherbet Lemons lies in their simplicity. These hard candies encase a fizzy sherbet centre that delivers the mouth-puckering sensation we all adore. While the ingredients are basic—sugar, tartaric acid, and bicarbonate of soda—it’s the technique that sets a perfect Sherbet Lemon apart.
Tools and Ingredients
Before embarking on this sweet expedition, ensure you have the following:
– Sugar thermometer
– Moulds for shaping (lemon or round shapes work best)
– Citric acid, bicarbonate of soda, and tartaric acid for the sherbet
– Sugar and glucose syrup for the outer candy shell
– Natural lemon flavouring for that authentic zest
Crafting the Outer Shell
1. Combine sugar and glucose syrup in a saucepan.
2. Using a sugar thermometer, heat the mixture until it reaches the ‘hard crack’ stage.
3. Remove from heat, add the lemon flavouring, and pour into moulds.
4. Allow them to set completely.
**Whipping Up the Sherbet Centre**
1. In a mixing bowl, combine citric acid, bicarbonate of soda, and tartaric acid.
2. Ensure even mixing for that consistent fizz.
**Filling and Finishing**
1. Once the outer shells have been set, create a small indentation or cavity in the centre.
2. Fill this with the sherbet mixture.
3. Seal with a bit more of the melted sugar mixture, if needed.
The Duncan’s Sweet Shop Touch
While the above provides a basic method, the true secret behind Sherbet Lemons is the love and care poured into every candy. At Sour Sweet Shop, we believe in using the finest ingredients, taking our time, and ensuring that each Sherbet Lemon encapsulates the nostalgia and quality of traditional British confectionery.

Enjoy the Fruits of Your Labour*
There’s no waiting period here! Once your Sherbet Lemons are complete, you can immediately enjoy the fruits of your labour. Relish the sweet outer shell, anticipate the fizz, and let the lemony zest dance on your palate.
To Sum It Up
Creating Sherbet Lemons at home is more than just a culinary project—it’s an experience. With each step, you’re reviving a bit of British history, indulging in sweet chemistry, and, most importantly, crafting memories. Duncan’s Sweet Shop is honoured to be a part of your homemade candy journey, sharing our expertise and passion for the world of sour sweets.
For all you sweet enthusiasts, remember: every candy is a story, and every Sherbet Lemon you make adds a chapter to your personal sweet tale. Enjoy the process, savour the outcome, and never stop exploring the tangy wonders of the candy world!