Instructions:
- Prepare the Mixture:
- In a medium saucepan, combine honey, lemon juice, and water. Stir well to blend the ingredients.
- Cook the Mixture:
- Heat the mixture over medium heat until it reaches 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer. This stage is known as the hard crack stage, which ensures that your cough drops will harden properly.
- Stir occasionally to prevent the mixture from burning. Be patient, as this step may take 20-30 minutes.
- Add Flavors:
- Once the mixture reaches 300°F, remove it from the heat. Stir in the grated lemon zest, ground ginger, and cinnamon if you’re using them.
- Pour Into Molds:
- Carefully pour the hot mixture into candy molds or onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. If using a baking sheet, let the mixture spread into a thin layer.
- Cut or Shape:
- If you’ve poured the mixture onto a baking sheet, score it into small squares or use a knife to cut it into bite-sized pieces once it cools slightly but is still pliable. If you used molds, allow the candy to set fully before removing.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar:
- Once the cough drops are fully set and cool, lightly dust them with powdered sugar to prevent them from sticking to each other.
- Store:
- Store the cough drops in an airtight container at room temperature. They will keep for several weeks.