There are days when we all need something sweet and zesty to brighten up the mood. This Lemon Fudge is a delightfully tangy treat that’s as easy to make and surprisingly satisfying. Incredibly refreshing the bright, citrusy zing of lemon makes it an irresistible fudge. Making this easy homemade candy is so much fun!
Lemon fudge is one of those treats that feels both refreshing and comforting at the same time. The creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture pairs perfectly with the bright, tangy taste of lemon, making it a delicious little pick-me-up for any moment.
Whether you’re making it for a last-minute gathering, a quick sweet fix, or just because you want something special, this fudge comes together easily and always hits the spot.
The combination of smooth white chocolate and zesty lemon is simply irresistible, you might find yourself reaching for a second piece before you even finish the first! Give it a try and enjoy a sweet, citrusy treat that’s as easy to make as it is to love.
Lemon’s bright, tangy flavor makes this fudge feel like summer, sweet, refreshing, and impossible to resist. It’s easy to share too, Just pop a few pieces into a cute box or bag, and you’ve got a homemade gift that’s bound to make someone smile.
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⭐Why You'll Love This Lemon Fudge
- Super Easy: This recipe is simple and perfect for everyone, even if you're not a cooking expert.
- Totally Customizable: You can tweak this recipe to match your taste. Adjust the lemon flavor or sweetness, or add extras like poppy seeds or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a special touch.
- Convenient Make-Ahead: Since the fudge sets in the fridge, it's a great dessert to prepare in advance. Just make it ahead of time and it'll be ready to serve whenever you need it, making hosting stress-free.
- Great for Any Event: Lemon fudge is perfect for any occasion, from summer picnics to holiday gatherings. Its unique flavor will make it a memorable dessert for your guests.
- Perfect for Gifts: Wrapped up nicely, lemon fudge makes a wonderful homemade gift. Its bright color and refreshing taste will surely impress your friends and family.
🧾Lemon Fudge Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make this Lemon Fudge:
- Sugar: This sweetens the lemon syrup, giving the fudge its primary sweetness.
- Lemon: Both the juice and zest are used. The juice adds a fresh, tangy flavor, while the zest gives a concentrated lemon taste without extra acidity.
- White Chocolate: This is the creamy base of the fudge, melting beautifully for a rich and smooth texture.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This ingredient gives the fudge its perfect fudgy consistency and sweetness, making it rich and indulgent.
- Unsalted Butter: Butter adds a rich flavor and helps create a smooth, creamy texture.
- Yellow Food Coloring: I add a touch of yellow coloring to make the fudge bright and vibrant, adding to its visual appeal.
See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and measurements.
👩🏻🍳How to Make Lemon Fudge
These step-by-step instructions and photos will help you to visualize how to make this recipe. See the recipe card for a printable version of this recipe.
1. In a pot, heat sugar, lemon juice, and zest over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Chop the white chocolate into small chunks and place them in a large bowl.
3. Bring the lemon mixture to a boil, then cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and turns light honey-colored.
4. Remove from heat, strain out the zest, and set the syrup aside.
5. In a pan, melt condensed milk and butter over low-medium heat, stirring until smooth (don’t let it boil).
6. Pour the hot condensed milk mixture over the white chocolate and stir until melted.
7. Add the lemon syrup and a few drops of yellow food coloring, mixing until smooth.
8. Pour into a lined baking pan, spread evenly, cool to room temp, then refrigerate for 2 hours before slicing into squares.
📖Variations
- Mix-ins: Consider folding in some chopped nuts or dried cranberries for added texture and flavor.
- Decorate: Top your fudge with yellow sprinkles or a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive touch.
💭Tips for Recipe Success
Prepare Your Pan: Line your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving extra on the sides. This makes it easy to lift the fudge out once it’s set.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and zest give the best flavor. Try to avoid bottled lemon juice.
Watch the Syrup: Boil the syrup carefully, stirring occasionally. Look for a pale honey color to know it’s ready.
Mix Well: Stir the mixture thoroughly so everything blends together smoothly.
Add Food Coloring Slowly: If using yellow food coloring, add a little at a time until you get the color you want. Mix well to avoid streaks.
Cut with a Sharp Knife: Use a sharp knife to cut the fudge into squares, wiping the knife between cuts for clean edges.
Store Properly: Keep the fudge in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for 1-2 weeks.
❓Commonly Asked Questions
Homemade fudge will typically last for about 1-2 weeks when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Yes, you can freeze fudge by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in an airtight container, where it can last for up to three months.
🍋More Lemon Recipes to Try!
Love this Lemon Fudge? You’ll also enjoy these vibrant lemon desserts:
- Lemon Meringue Tart
- No Bake Lemon Souffle
- Lemon Posset
- Lemon Tiramisu
- Lemon Pudding Cake
- Lemon Mousse
🍰More Dessert Recipes!
Here are more of my favorite dessert recipes! Try these:
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📖 Recipe
Lemon Fudge
Ingredients
- 120 g Sugar
- 120 ml Lemon Juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 400 g White Chocolate
- 395 ml Condensed Milk
- 120 g Unsalted Butter
- 1 teaspoon Yellow Food Coloring - Optional
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine the sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring continuously until the sugar has dissolved completely.
- Cut the white chocolate into small pieces and place in a large bowl.
- Bring to a boil, then cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and reduced by half to a pale honey color.
- Remove the syrup from the heat and remove the lemon zest. Set aside.
- In a medium pan, combine sweetened condensed milk and butter. Stir over low-medium heat until melted and combined, without boiling.
- Remove the pan from the heat, and pour the hot condensed milk mixture over the white chocolate.
- Pour the lemon syrup into the melted chocolate mixture. Add yellow food coloring (this is optional) and stir until all ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
- Once set, remove the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper overhang.
- Cut into small squares and serve. Enjoy your lemon fudge!
Notes
Nutrition
Nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and should be considered an estimate only. Actual nutritional content will vary based upon brands used, measuring methods, cooking method, portion sizes, and more.
John says
This lemon fudge is a dream come true! The citrusy flavor is refreshing and the texture is perfect.
Sandra says
Thanks for this easy lemon fudge recipe, the color looks amazing and I am sure the taste is delicious too.