Lemon Fudge Recipe

Get ready to brighten up your dessert game with this Lemon Fudge recipe—a sweet, creamy treat packed with sunshine in every bite. The smoothness of white chocolate melds perfectly with zesty lemon for an irresistible, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s always a crowd-pleaser. Friends and family will be wowed by the vibrant flavor and gorgeous look, and you’ll love just how quick and simple it is to whip up a batch. Whether you’re craving a bite of something cheerful on a rainy day or want a show-stopping addition to your dessert tray, Lemon Fudge is a go-to that delivers every single time!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Lemon Fudge is how just a few key ingredients come together to make something truly special. Each one plays an important role—bringing the sweetness, creaminess, zing, or playful touch of color that makes this fudge unforgettable.

• White chocolate chips: These are the foundation, melting into a luxurious, silky base that sets beautifully and lets the lemon flavor shine.
• Sweetened condensed milk: This is your shortcut to a rich, creamy texture and the perfect level of sweetness with no extra fuss.
• Lemon extract: Brings a concentrated hit of citrus flavor, so every bite tastes bright and lively.
• Lemon zest: Adds fresh, natural zing as well as vibrant little flecks throughout the fudge—don’t skip this for that homemade, sunny flavor!
• Yellow food coloring (optional): If you want to dial up the cheerful, lemony look, a couple drops is all you need for a showstopping finish.

How to Make Lemon Fudge

Step 1: Combine the Chocolate and Milk

Start by grabbing a large, microwave-safe bowl. Add your white chocolate chips and pour in the sweetened condensed milk. This is where the magic begins! The chocolate will melt gently with the milk to create a lush, creamy base you’ll want to sneak a taste of.

Step 2: Melt Until Smooth

Pop the bowl into the microwave and heat it in 30-second bursts. Stir well after each interval to help everything melt evenly. You want the mixture totally smooth, creamy, and lump-free—this is key to achieving that dreamy Lemon Fudge texture.

Step 3: Add Lemon Flavor and Color

Once the mix is silky smooth, stir in the lemon extract and fresh lemon zest. For that extra pop of color, add a drop or two of yellow food coloring, then stir until evenly combined. Take a second to appreciate the glorious aroma of fresh lemon—delightful!

Step 4: Pour and Smooth

Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment or foil, then pour in your lemon fudge mixture. Use a spatula to smooth the top so every bite is perfect. Work quickly, as the fudge will start to firm up on contact with the cool pan.

Step 5: Chill Until Set

Transfer your pan to the refrigerator and let the Lemon Fudge chill for at least 2 hours. This step is all about patience—the fudge sets up into creamy, sliceable squares with just the right bite.

Step 6: Slice and Enjoy

Once perfectly set, lift the fudge out of the pan and use a sharp knife to cut it into squares. Take a moment to admire your handiwork, then dig in or share with lucky friends. Lemon Fudge is now ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Lemon Fudge

Lemon Fudge Garnishes

Dress your Lemon Fudge up with a sprinkle of extra lemon zest or a tiny wedge of candied lemon on top of each square. For a sophisticated touch, try a dusting of powdered sugar or a few edible flowers to really make your fudge tray pop.

Side Dishes

While Lemon Fudge is fabulous all on its own, you can pair it with fresh berries—like raspberries or blueberries—for a refreshing contrast. It also plays beautifully alongside a platter of assorted cookies or buttery shortbread for a truly indulgent treat spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Pack individual squares of Lemon Fudge in mini cupcake liners or cellophane bags for adorable party favors. Or, for a stunning dessert table, layer the fudge on a tiered tray with other colorful sweets. You can even skewer the squares and dip them in white chocolate for irresistible fudge pops!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Lemon Fudge will keep beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week—simply layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store in the fridge if your kitchen is warm, where it’ll last even longer while staying perfectly creamy.

Freezing

Lemon Fudge is freezer friendly! Place squares in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a resealable bag or container. They’ll hold up for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge before serving for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

No reheating required! Lemon Fudge is meant to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer a slightly softer fudge, let the pieces sit out on the counter for 10 to 15 minutes before digging in.

FAQs

Can I use fresh lemon juice instead of extract?

While fresh juice adds nice flavor, it contains water that may affect the fudge’s texture. Lemon extract delivers a strong, pure citrus punch without changing the consistency, so it’s best for this recipe.

Is there a dairy-free option?

Absolutely! Look for dairy-free white chocolate chips and replace the sweetened condensed milk with a coconut-based version. The Lemon Fudge will be a little different but still totally delicious.

How can I make my Lemon Fudge a brighter yellow?

A few drops of yellow food coloring are all you need to achieve a sunny, cheerful hue. Start with one or two drops, mix, and add more to reach your desired brightness—easy and fun!

Why didn’t my fudge set properly?

Usually, this happens if the chocolate wasn’t fully melted or the fudge wasn’t chilled long enough. Make sure the mixture is smooth before pouring it into the pan, and give it plenty of fridge time to set.

Can I add extras like nuts or dried fruit?

Definitely! Chopped pistachios, almonds, or a handful of dried cranberries make wonderful additions for flavor, color, and a bit of texture. Fold them in after adding the lemon and before pouring the mixture into the pan.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re just as excited as I am to try this bright, zesty Lemon Fudge. It’s a breeze to make and brings pure happiness in every luscious bite. Gather your ingredients and treat yourself and your loved ones—you’re only a few steps away from a new favorite dessert!

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