This creamy and vibrant lemon fudge is a quick, refreshing treat made with simple ingredients and ready in just a few minutes of prep time. Its smooth texture and zesty flavor make it perfect for parties, gifts, or anytime you crave a bright and sweet dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This lemon fudge delivers a luxurious melt-in-your-mouth texture while offering a refreshing citrus twist. It requires no special equipment, no baking, and uses only a handful of ingredients. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home cook, this recipe is quick, reliable, and impressively delicious.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
3 cups (540g) white chocolate chips
1 can (14 oz / 397g) sweetened condensed milk
1 tablespoon lemon extract
Zest of 1 lemon
A few drops of yellow food coloring (optional)
Directions
Place the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a microwave-safe bowl.
Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each round, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
Stir in the lemon extract and lemon zest. Add yellow food coloring if you want a brighter color.
Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) pan with parchment paper and pour the mixture into the pan, spreading it evenly.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until completely set.
Once firm, lift the fudge out of the pan, slice into squares, and serve.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields about 16 squares of fudge.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours
Total time: about 2 hours and 5 minutes
Variations
Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a softer, rounded flavor.
Mix in finely crushed lemon cookies for extra texture.
Add a swirl of white chocolate on top before chilling for a decorative finish.
Use orange or lime zest and matching extract to create other citrus fudge flavors.
Storage/Reheating
Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, freeze the pieces in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
No reheating is needed—simply serve chilled or at room temperature.
FAQs
How firm should the lemon fudge be once set?
It should be firm enough to cut cleanly but still soft and creamy when bitten into.
Can I make this without a microwave?
Yes, you can melt the chocolate and condensed milk together in a double boiler on low heat.
Can I use fresh lemon juice instead of lemon extract?
Lemon juice can cause the chocolate to seize, so lemon extract is strongly recommended.
Is yellow food coloring required?
No, it only enhances the color. The flavor remains the same without it.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply use a 9×13-inch pan to maintain the same thickness.
What type of white chocolate works best?
White chocolate chips or high-quality chopped white chocolate both melt well and provide a smooth texture.
Can I add toppings?
Yes, you can sprinkle lemon zest, white chocolate drizzle, or finely crushed cookies on top before chilling.
Does this fudge need to stay refrigerated?
Refrigeration helps it stay firm and fresh, though it can sit at room temperature for short periods when serving.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can use dairy-free white chocolate and sweetened condensed coconut milk for a similar result.
Why is my fudge too soft?
It may need more chilling time, or the white chocolate may have been overheated. Chill longer until fully set.
Conclusion
This 5-minute lemon fudge is a wonderfully simple yet impressive treat that combines creamy sweetness with bright citrus flavor. With minimal ingredients and effortless preparation, it is perfect for gifting, entertaining, or satisfying a spontaneous sweet craving. Enjoy each zesty, melt-in-your-mouth bite.
A quick and creamy lemon fudge made with white chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, and zesty lemon flavor. Ready in minutes with no baking required—perfect for gifts or a refreshing sweet treat.
Ingredients
3 cups (540g) white chocolate chips
1 can (14 oz / 397g) sweetened condensed milk
1 tablespoon lemon extract
Zest of 1 lemon
A few drops of yellow food coloring (optional)
Instructions
Place the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a microwave-safe bowl.
Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each round, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
Stir in the lemon extract and lemon zest. Add yellow food coloring if desired.
Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) pan with parchment paper and pour the mixture into the pan, spreading it evenly.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until completely set.
Once firm, lift the fudge out of the pan, slice into squares, and serve.
Notes
Use lemon extract instead of lemon juice to prevent seizing the chocolate.
Optional food coloring enhances the look without affecting flavor.
Can be frozen for longer storage—thaw before serving.
Add vanilla extract for extra depth of flavor.
Try orange or lime zest and extract for variations.
