Lemon Gumdrops

Directions

1. 1
   Butter an 8-by-8-inch baking dish.
2. 2
   Dissolve the gelatin in 1/2 cup water for 5 minutes.
3. 3
   Combine 2 cups sugar and 1/2 cup water in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. 4
   Stir constantly and wash down the sides of the pan several times with a pastry brush that has been dipped in cold water to prevent crystallization.
5. 5
   Add the gelatin and continue boiling and stirring until it thickens, 15 minutes.
6. 6
   Add the lemon juice and orange zest and boil for 5 more minutes.
7. 7
   Stir in the food coloring.
8. 8
   Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and let set up for about 1 hour.
9. 9
   Put the remaining sugar in a shallow bowl.
10. 10
    Butter a large chef's knife and your fingers.
11. 11
    Cut the lemon gel into *-inch squares and coat with the sugar.