5-Minute Lemon Fudge Recipe

Zesty 5-Minute Lemon Fudge Recipe for Sweet Summer Joy

Sweet culinary magic happens when vibrant lemon fudge meets minimal prep time.

Creamy, zesty treats like these surprise even seasoned dessert enthusiasts.

Kitchen experiments rarely feel this effortless or delightful.

Professional pastry chefs would marvel at the simple technique behind this confection.

Tangy brightness dances through each smooth, melt-in-your-mouth bite.

You’ll become an instant dessert hero with this foolproof recipe.

Prepare to amaze everyone with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

How to Make Lemon Fudge in a Flash

Step 1: Line the Baking Dish

Grab a square baking pan and cover the bottom with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over the sides for easy removal.

Step 2: Create Smooth Chocolate Base

In a microwave-safe bowl, add:
  • White chocolate chips
  • Sweetened condensed milk

Zap in 30-second bursts, stirring between each interval until the mixture transforms into a silky, glossy pool of deliciousness.

Step 3: Awaken Citrus Magic

Introduce vibrant lemon elements to your chocolate:
  • Fresh lemon juice
  • Lemon zest

Stir enthusiastically until the mixture becomes a harmonious blend of creamy and tangy goodness.

Step 4: Spread the Sunshine

Pour the luminous lemon fudge mixture into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and create a perfectly smooth surface.

Step 5: Chill and Solidify

Slide the pan into the refrigerator and let it rest for 2-3 hours. The fudge will transform from liquid to a delectable, firm treat.

Step 6: Slice and Savor

Remove the fudge from the refrigerator, lift it out using the parchment paper edges, and slice into delightful squares. Enjoy the burst of lemony sweetness!

Tips for a Smooth, Zesty Lemon Fudge Texture

  • Prevent Sticking Smartly: Line the baking pan with parchment paper, creating an easy lift-out method for your fudge without any messy residue.
  • Microwave with Precision: Heat white chocolate chips and condensed milk carefully in 30-second intervals, stirring between each burst to avoid burning and ensure smooth melting.
  • Boost Lemon Intensity: Use fresh lemon zest and juice for a more vibrant, authentic citrus flavor that elevates the entire dessert's taste profile.
  • Chill for Perfect Texture: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2-3 hours to achieve the ideal firm, creamy consistency that cuts cleanly into squares.
  • Customize Your Treat: Experiment with different citrus zests like lime or orange for unique flavor variations, or sprinkle some sea salt on top for a gourmet touch.

How to Keep Lemon Fudge Fresh for Days

  • Store leftover lemon fudge in an airtight container for up to 7 days in the refrigerator. Keep the pieces separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Wrap individual fudge squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen fudge can last up to 3 months without losing its creamy texture.
  • Remove frozen fudge from the freezer and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. For quick thawing, leave at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving.
  • Enjoy chilled fudge straight from the refrigerator for the best flavor and smooth consistency. Let it sit briefly at room temperature if you prefer a softer texture.

What to Serve with 5-Minute Lemon Fudge

  • Mix a bright limoncello spritz with sparkling water and fresh lemon garnish to complement the fudge's tangy profile, creating a refreshing and harmonious flavor combination.
  • Brew a delicate lavender-infused white tea that enhances the fudge's smooth texture and provides a subtle floral undertone, balancing the lemon's sharpness.
  • Serve small side of fresh raspberries or blueberries to add a light, fruity contrast that cuts through the fudge's richness and provides a palate-cleansing effect.
  • Choose a chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc with citrus notes that mirror the lemon fudge's bright flavor, offering a sophisticated adult pairing experience.

Lemon Fudge Variations That’ll Wow Everyone

  • Dairy-Free Delight: Replace white chocolate chips with dairy-free white chocolate and use coconut condensed milk for a vegan-friendly version.
  • Keto-Friendly Option: Swap white chocolate chips for sugar-free white chocolate chips and use a keto-friendly sweetened condensed milk alternative to reduce carbohydrates.
  • Citrus Burst Variation: Experiment with different citrus zests like lime or orange to create unique flavor profiles while maintaining the creamy fudge texture.
  • Nutty Crunch Add-on: Sprinkle chopped pistachios or sliced almonds on top of the fudge before chilling for an extra layer of texture and nutty flavor.

Why 5-Minute Lemon Fudge Is the Shortcut Treat You Need

  • This 5-minute lemon fudge recipe offers incredible advantages for home bakers.
  • Prepare this dessert in just 5 minutes of active cooking, with only 2-3 hours chilling time, making it perfect for spontaneous sweet cravings.
  • No advanced baking skills required- simply melt, mix, and chill. Microwave method ensures foolproof results for novice cooks wanting a delicious homemade treat.
  • Ideal for summer gatherings, quick dessert needs, or unexpected guests. The bright lemon flavor adds a refreshing twist to traditional fudge, surprising and delighting taste buds with its zesty, creamy texture.

Ingredients for Tangy and Sweet 5-Minute Lemon Fudge

Base Ingredients:
  • White Chocolate Chips: Smooth, creamy base for the fudge that provides rich sweetness.
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds creaminess and helps bind the fudge together, creating a smooth texture.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Fresh Lemon Juice, Lemon Zest: Bright, tangy citrus flavors that give the fudge a refreshing and zesty character.
Preparation Ingredient:
  • Parchment Paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes removal of fudge from the pan easy, ensuring clean cut pieces.
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5-Minute Lemon Fudge Recipe

5-Minute Lemon Fudge Recipe


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4.8 from 25 reviews

  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 16 1x

Description

Creamy lemon fudge delights taste buds with its zesty, melt-in-your-mouth magic. Citrusy sweetness and smooth texture invite culinary adventures that will leave you craving more.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 3 cups white chocolate chips
  • 1 14-ounce (397 grams) can sweetened condensed milk

Dairy Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Finishing Ingredients:

  • Yellow food coloring (optional)
  • Powdered sugar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare a parchment-lined 8-inch square baking pan, ensuring complete coverage to facilitate easy removal of the fudge later.
  2. Combine white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a microwave-safe bowl, creating a smooth base for the fudge.
  3. Heat the mixture in 30-second increments, stirring thoroughly between each interval to prevent scorching and ensure uniform melting.
  4. Gently fold in fresh lemon juice and vibrant lemon zest, incorporating the citrusy essence throughout the creamy mixture.
  5. Carefully transfer the lemony fudge into the prepared pan, using a spatula to distribute the mixture evenly and eliminate any air pockets.
  6. Place the pan in the refrigerator, allowing the fudge to solidify and develop its characteristic firm texture for approximately 2-3 hours.
  7. Once completely chilled and set, lift the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper edges and slice into precise, bite-sized squares.
  8. Serve the zesty, creamy fudge immediately, savoring the bright lemon flavor and smooth, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.

Notes

  • Adapt the zest for intense or subtle lemon flavor by adjusting the amount of lemon zest and juice.
  • Use high-quality white chocolate chips for a smoother, creamier texture that melts more evenly.
  • Prevent crystallization by ensuring no water drops into the chocolate during melting, which can cause seizing.
  • Customize the fudge by adding optional mix-ins like toasted coconut, chopped pistachios, or dried blueberries for extra texture and flavor complexity.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 16
  • Calories: 195
  • Sugar: 22 g
  • Sodium: 30 mg
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg
Dave Mitchell

Dave Mitchell

Founder & Chief Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Grilling Techniques and Innovations​
  • Recipe Development and Testing
  • Culinary Education and Workshops​
  • Food Photography and Styling

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and menu planning, with a special emphasis on grilling and outdoor cooking. ​


Dave Mitchell is the heart behind Daves Grill, a cook, writer, and lover of all things grilled. He studied Culinary Arts at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and spent years cooking, testing, and sharing recipes that actually work.

Dave started Daves Grill to keep things simple: one great recipe at a time. His food is bold, easy to follow, and made for real people with regular kitchens. From juicy steaks to quick sides, Dave’s recipes bring the heat without the hassle.

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