Bright, zesty, and gorgeously creamy, Lemon Fudge brings sunshine to your dessert table in every bite. This luscious treat transforms pantry staples into a vibrant no-bake delight, perfect for celebrations or a sweet midday pick-me-up. The tang of real lemon, the silkiness of white chocolate, and the gentle crunch of optional toppings all come together in a dazzling fudge that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re a lemon lover or simply a fan of easy homemade confections, Lemon Fudge is ready to dazzle your taste buds and impress your friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making Lemon Fudge is all about celebrating the magic of a few simple, quality ingredients. Each element not only shapes the flavor but also plays a role in the fudge’s ultra-smooth texture and sunshiny color, so don’t skimp on the good stuff!
- White chocolate chips: The sweet, creamy base of the fudge—choose a high-quality brand for extra smoothness.
- Sweetened condensed milk: This thick, silky milk brings essential sweetness and helps everything bind together.
- Unsalted butter: Adds a little richness and helps give your fudge that melt-in-your-mouth finish.
- Lemon juice: Fresh-squeezed is best for real, tangy brightness.
- Lemon zest: Intensifies the citrus flavor and adds flecks of color.
- Lemon extract: A little goes a long way for pure lemon aroma and flavor.
- Pinch of salt: Just enough to balance out the sweetness and punch up all the flavors.
- Yellow food coloring (optional): For that perfect sunshine hue—leave it out if you prefer a natural color.
How to Make Lemon Fudge
Step 1: Line and Prep
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, making sure to leave some hanging over the edges. This little trick is a lifesaver when it’s time to lift and slice your fudge; no sticking, no mess!
Step 2: Melt the Foundations
In a medium saucepan set over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter. Stir constantly, and watch as the mixture transforms into a luscious, unified pool of creamy sweetness without overheating or burning—patience and gentle stirring are your best friends here.
Step 3: Bring in the Lemon
Remove your saucepan from the heat. Now’s the time to deliver all that bright Lemon Fudge flavor—stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, lemon extract, a pinch of salt, and a few drops of yellow food coloring if you like. Mix gently but thoroughly to make sure every bite sings with citrusy goodness.
Step 4: Pour and Smooth
Work quickly to pour the fudge mixture into your prepared pan, as it begins to set fast. Use a spatula to spread it evenly to the edges. For an extra-smooth top, gently tap the pan on the counter a couple of times—those little air bubbles will float right up for you.
Step 5: Let It Chill
Slide the pan into your refrigerator and give your Lemon Fudge at least 2 hours to set up firmly. When the wait is finally over, use the parchment overhang to lift the fudge out and cut it into blissful bite-sized squares. The glossy finish and irresistible aroma will have everyone circling the kitchen!
How to Serve Lemon Fudge
Garnishes
Lemon Fudge is a treat for the eyes as much as the taste buds, so have fun with your garnishes! Sprinkle crushed lemon candies or delicate white sprinkles on top before chilling for some sparkle and a hint of crunch. Another lovely touch: a pinch of extra lemon zest for a burst of color and fragrance.
Side Dishes
Pairing Lemon Fudge with other treats makes for a glorious dessert platter. Arrange it with fresh berries (like raspberries or blueberries), buttery shortbread cookies, or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The fudge’s tangy sweetness pairs beautifully with light, simple flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Pile Lemon Fudge squares in mini cupcake wrappers for easy party passing or wrap them up in pastel parchment and twine for take-home gifts. Try stacking them in a clear jar, layering with lemon slices for a super-charming edible centerpiece. No matter your style, Lemon Fudge always knows how to shine.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once you’ve sliced your Lemon Fudge, tuck the squares into an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for up to a week—the flavors only get more intense over a day or two.
Freezing
Lemon Fudge is freezer-friendly! Arrange the pieces in a single layer with parchment between, seal tightly, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
No need to reheat Lemon Fudge, but if you like a just-slightly softer bite, let pieces sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving. They’ll be silky and perfect, ready to melt on your tongue.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice really brings the brightest, truest citrus flavor to Lemon Fudge. In a pinch, you can use bottled—but the taste and aroma might not be quite as vibrant. Fresh zest is especially essential!
How do I know when the fudge is fully set?
Your Lemon Fudge should feel firm to the touch and lift cleanly from the pan using the parchment. For neatly cut squares, chill for a full 2 hours, or even overnight if you have time to spare.
What’s the best way to cut the fudge cleanly?
Use a long, sharp knife, and wipe it clean between cuts. For extra tidy squares, briefly chill the knife or dip it in hot water, then dry, before slicing through the fudge.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Just seek out dairy-free white chocolate chips and swap in a plant-based condensed milk and butter alternative. The fudge will set beautifully and keep all its citrus charm.
Is yellow food coloring necessary?
Not at all—it’s completely optional. It just boosts the sunny appearance of Lemon Fudge, but the flavor and texture will be wonderful with or without it. Go natural if that’s more your style!
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a cheerful, citrusy treat that delivers both creamy comfort and playful zing, Lemon Fudge is your new go-to. It’s impossible not to fall in love with those bright flavors and melt-in-your-mouth bites. Gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try—your friends and family will thank you!
Print
Lemon Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 36 pieces 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the bright, citrusy flavor of this delightful Lemon Fudge. With the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, this easy-to-make treat is sure to impress your taste buds.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Flavorings:
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1/2 tsp lemon extract
- a pinch of salt
- yellow food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Fudge Mixture: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Melt white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter in a saucepan. Stir in lemon juice, zest, extract, salt, and food coloring.
- Set the Fudge: Pour the mixture into the pan, chill for 2 hours, then cut into squares.
Notes
- Add crushed lemon candies or white sprinkles for extra texture.
- For a stronger citrus flavor, increase the zest or extract slightly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 95
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 4.5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
