If you’re craving something sweet with a bright burst of citrus, this Lemon Fudge Recipe is an absolute must-try. Smooth, creamy, and dazzlingly lemony, it’s the perfect treat to brighten your day or impress guests with a refreshing twist on classic fudge. The blend of white chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, and real lemon zest creates an irresistibly soft texture and a tangy flavor that’s simply unforgettable. Whether for a special occasion or a simple indulgence, this Lemon Fudge Recipe will quickly become a beloved go-to dessert in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s truly amazing about this recipe is how just a handful of ingredients come together to make such a stunning dessert. Each item plays a crucial role to balance sweetness, texture, and that zesty lemon pop.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Provides a luscious, creamy base that melts everything together beautifully.
- Lemon extract: Packs the pure lemon flavor needed to brighten and lift the fudge’s taste.
- White chocolate: Delivers velvety richness and sweetness, melting smoothly into the mix.
- Lemon zest: Adds a fresh, natural citrus aroma and slight texture contrast for extra depth.
- Yellow gel food colouring: Optional, but it gives the fudge a cheerful, inviting lemon hue.
- Sprinkles or decorations: Fun finishing touches that make your fudge look as delightful as it tastes.
How to Make Lemon Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your pan and ingredients
Start by lining an 8-inch square baking pan with baking paper. This simple step ensures your fudge comes out easily later. If you plan to use sprinkles, have them ready so you can add them at the perfect moment.
Step 2: Combine the sweetened condensed milk, lemon extract, and colour
Into a medium saucepan, pour the sweetened condensed milk and add 3 teaspoons of lemon extract with a few drops of yellow gel food colouring if you want that vivid lemon color. Stir gently to mix it all evenly without splashing.
Step 3: Melt the white chocolate
Now add the chopped white chocolate to the pan. Cook over low to medium heat, stirring constantly. This step is crucial — keep the mixture moving so the chocolate melts smoothly without sticking or burning on the pan’s bottom.
Step 4: Add the lemon zest and adjust flavor
Once your fudge mixture is smooth and glossy, stir in the finely grated lemon zest. This addition brightens the flavor remarkably. Taste the mixture, and if you want more lemon punch, add a little more lemon extract to get that perfect tang.
Step 5: Pour into the baking pan
Carefully pour the fudge mixture into your prepared pan and use a spatula to smooth the surface as much as possible. An even layer helps when it comes to slicing it into perfect squares later.
Step 6: Decorate with sprinkles
Immediately sprinkle over your decorations or sprinkles if using them. Then gently tap the pan on the countertop so the sprinkles settle slightly into the fudge’s surface, making a pretty finish.
Step 7: Chill until firm
Pop your pan in the fridge for at least 4 hours, although overnight chilling really lets the fudge become firm and set perfectly. This patience results in those classic fudge squares that hold their shape beautifully.
Step 8: Slice and enjoy
Once set, lift the fudge out using the baking paper and cut it into about 36 squares. Now you have a tray of dreamy lemony treats ready to share or savor whenever the mood strikes.
How to Serve Lemon Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little garnish elevates the presentation and can add subtle texture contrasts. Think edible flowers, finely grated lemon zest, or even a dusting of powdered sugar. These little extras make each bite feel special and visually stunning.
Side Dishes
Lemon fudge pairs beautifully with light and fruity elements such as fresh berries, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a cup of herbal tea. The gentle bitterness of green tea or chamomile contrasts wonderfully with the fudge’s sweetness and tartness.
Creative Ways to Present
For gifting or parties, consider arranging the squares in cute paper liners or stacking them in a decorative box with wax paper between layers. Wrapping a few pieces in parchment tied with twine also makes a charming homemade gift that friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your lemon fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and firm. It stays perfectly delicious for up to two weeks, giving you plenty of time to enjoy its citrusy charm.
Freezing
If you want to make a big batch ahead of time, lemon fudge freezes well. Wrap individual pieces tightly in cling film, then place them in a sealed freezer bag. Frozen fudge keeps for about two months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
Though fudge is usually eaten chilled, if you prefer a softer texture, let the pieces sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving as it can cause the fudge to become grainy or melt unevenly.
FAQs
Can I substitute lemon extract with fresh lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice adds moisture which can affect the fudge’s texture. Lemon extract is concentrated and doesn’t change the fudge’s consistency, making it the best choice for this recipe.
Is it possible to make this fudge dairy-free?
This recipe relies heavily on dairy ingredients like white chocolate and condensed milk, so a dairy-free version would require alternative ingredients and may change the texture and taste considerably.
Can I use regular food coloring instead of gel?
Gel food coloring is preferred because it adds vibrant color without thinning the fudge mixture, but regular food coloring can work in small amounts—just be careful not to add too much liquid.
What’s the best way to cut the fudge into neat squares?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts to get perfect edges. Chilling the fudge well before slicing also helps keep the squares intact and neat.
Why does my fudge sometimes come out grainy?
Grainy fudge usually means the mixture was heated too quickly or too high. Stir constantly on low heat to melt the chocolate smoothly for that silky texture.
Final Thoughts
Making this Lemon Fudge Recipe is like capturing sunshine in every bite. It’s easy, fun, and delivers that perfect balance of creamy sweetness and zesty brightness that will delight your taste buds. I promise once you try it, this fudge will become a fabulous staple to bring fresh flavor to your dessert repertoire. Go ahead and treat yourself to a batch—you deserve it!
Print
Lemon Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: 36 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Lemon Fudge recipe offers a luscious, tangy twist on traditional fudge by combining sweetened condensed milk, white chocolate, and bright lemon flavor. Finished with lemon zest and optional sprinkles, it’s a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (395g/14oz)
- 540g white chocolate, roughly chopped (19oz)
- 3–4 teaspoons lemon extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest, finely grated
- Drop yellow gel food colouring (optional)
Toppings
- Sprinkles or decorations (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Pan: Line an 8-inch square baking pan with baking paper and set aside. Have sprinkles ready if you plan to use them.
- Combine Base Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add the sweetened condensed milk, 3 teaspoons lemon extract, and yellow gel food colouring if using. Stir to combine evenly.
- Melt Chocolate: Add the chopped white chocolate to the saucepan and cook over low to medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning, until the chocolate fully melts and the mixture is smooth.
- Add Lemon Zest & Adjust Flavor: Stir in the lemon zest, then taste the mixture. If a stronger lemon flavor is desired, add the remaining lemon extract and stir thoroughly.
- Transfer Fudge to Pan: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and use a spatula to smooth the surface evenly.
- Add Toppings: Immediately sprinkle any decorations or sprinkles over the fudge and tap the pan gently on the countertop to settle them in.
- Chill: Refrigerate the fudge until firm, for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
- Serve & Enjoy: Once set, cut into squares and enjoy your delicious lemon fudge. Remember to leave a comment and rating if you tried the recipe!
Notes
- Use full-fat white chocolate for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
- Lemon extract varies in strength; adjust to taste for desired tanginess.
- Yellow gel food coloring is optional but enhances the lemony appearance.
- Finely grated fresh lemon zest brightens the flavor naturally.
- Fudgeset best when refrigerated overnight to fully firm up before slicing.
