Sliced lemon question

[Elf]

Can you leave cut 3 cut lemon in 3 cups of sugar on the counter over night?
I have a Martha Stewart recipe for a Shaker lemon pie that calls for a 3 lemon mixed with 3 cups of sugar and then let to stand over night. I naturally put it in the refrigerator, the rind didn't break down, the result was a very chewy pie.
Am I right in thinking that there would be enough acid from the lemons to make it safe to store at room temp. safely?
Also that by being at room temp the rind would soften and not be chewy? Thanks

 

[ChefJune]

It doesn't sound to me like there is anything there to spoil. I'd try that.

 

[mcnerd]

No problem keeping lemon slices and sugar mixture at room temperature. Both ingredients tend to inhibit nasties from growing.

 

[Elf]

Thanks that is what I was thinking, sometimes you just have to have someone confirm your da moments

 

[DramaQueen]

The large amount of sugar acts as a preservative. That's why honey never spoils.