Name: 5-Minute Lemon Fudge
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 1 min
Total time: 1 h 6 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups white chocolate chips; 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 tbsp lemon zest; Yellow food coloring (optional); Powdered sugar, for dusting

5-Minute Lemon Fudge a zesty, creamy treat made with white chocolate and fresh lemon, this melt-in-your-mouth fudge is perfect for citrus lovers and comes together in just minutes. With a smooth texture and bright lemon flavor, this no-bake dessert is ideal for when I want something sweet and refreshing without turning on the oven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how incredibly quick and easy this lemon fudge is to prepare. It takes just a few basic ingredients, and the microwave does most of the work. The combination of sweet white chocolate and tangy lemon gives each bite a deliciously refreshing taste. Whether I need a last-minute party treat, a homemade gift, or a simple dessert to keep in the fridge, this fudge checks every box. Plus, the beautiful pale yellow color adds a cheerful touch to any dessert table.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 cups white chocolate chips

1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

2 tbsp unsalted butter

2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

1 tbsp lemon zest

Yellow food coloring (optional)

Powdered sugar, for dusting

Directions

I start by lining an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper to keep the fudge from sticking.

In a microwave-safe bowl, I combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter.

I microwave the mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring after each one, until everything is melted and smooth.

Next, I stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and a drop or two of yellow food coloring if I want to brighten it up.

I pour the fudge into the prepared pan and smooth out the top with a spatula.

Then I refrigerate the fudge for at least an hour, or until it’s fully set.

Once it’s firm, I take it out of the pan, dust the top with powdered sugar, slice it into squares, and it’s ready to serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 16 pieces of fudge.

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cooking Time: 1 minute

Chill Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 6 minutes

Calories per piece: 180 kcal

Variations

When I want to switch things up, I like adding a few fun twists to the classic lemon version:

Lemon-Lime Fudge: I replace half the lemon juice with fresh lime juice and add a little lime zest.

Berry Lemon Fudge: I mix in a few freeze-dried raspberries or blueberries before chilling.

Coconut Lemon Fudge: I sprinkle shredded coconut over the top for a tropical vibe.

Extra Tangy Fudge: I add a bit more lemon zest and reduce the sweetened condensed milk slightly for a more tart flavor.

Swirled Look: I drop in a bit of extra white chocolate or a berry puree and swirl it through with a knife before refrigerating.

Storage/Reheating

I store this lemon fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it stays fresh for up to 2 weeks. If I want to keep it longer, I freeze it in a sealed container for up to 3 months. To serve from frozen, I let the fudge sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes so it softens slightly. Since it’s a no-bake recipe, there’s no need to reheat—just slice and enjoy.

Related Recipes:

Old Fashioned Fudge

FAQs

What type of white chocolate chips work best?

I find that good-quality white chocolate chips melt more smoothly and give a richer flavor. I avoid using baking chips that contain stabilizers since they don’t melt as evenly.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, but in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can work. I still try to use fresh zest for that bright citrus punch.

Do I need to use food coloring?

Not at all. The food coloring is totally optional—it just gives the fudge a pretty lemony look. I often skip it when I prefer a more natural appearance.

Can I make this fudge on the stovetop?

Yes, I can! I melt the chocolate, condensed milk, and butter over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth, then proceed with the rest of the recipe.

Why didn’t my fudge set properly?

If the fudge is too soft, it may not have been chilled long enough, or there could have been extra moisture from too much lemon juice. I make sure to measure carefully and give it enough time in the fridge.

Conclusion

This 5-minute lemon fudge has become one of my go-to no-bake treats. It’s quick, flavorful, and always a hit with friends and family. The blend of white chocolate and lemon is perfectly balanced, and I love how easy it is to customize. Whether I’m making it for a holiday, a gift box, or just to satisfy a sweet tooth, it never disappoints.

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