Lemons with Candy Cane Straws

To be honest, I can't remember where I first read about these fun little treats.  If I had to guess I would have to say it was likely the "Family Fun" magazine.

I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE that magazine and would highly recommend it to anyone who doesn't get it.  It has so many fun ideas for holidays, crafts, gifts, activities, and recipes.  

So, Lemons with Candy Cane Straws have become a Christmastime tradition at our house.  Kids of any age would enjoy this yummy treat.

Want to give it a try with your kids.  Here are a few steps to follow.

1. Wash your lemon and roll it along the counter to get the juices flowing.
2. Use the point of a knife to make a little spot to insert the candy cane.  Taylor did hers at the side, but I would suggest inserting the candy cane on the end.  This gives you more opportunity for juice.
3. Lay the candy cane on a cutting board and hit the straight end of the candy cane with the back of a butter knife to break off a small piece.  You want a "raw edge" on the end of the candy cane.
4. Now go up toward the bend of the candy cane and break again with the back of a butter knife.  Try for a fairly long straight piece of candy cane.  (Candy canes seem to have a way of breaking where you really didn't want them to.  You may end up with some pieces of candy cane for those peppermint pretzels or other Christmas candy recipes.)
5. Insert the candy cane into the lemon and start sucking.  Some candy canes already have a nice straw hole in them.  Other candy canes take a bit of work and sucking to finally get the juice flowing through. (Bob's Candy Canes seem to work really well)  

I hope your kids enjoy this fun recipe which kind of becomes a little activity.  And hopefully this will become a tradition at your house too.  :)