Lemon Fudge Recipe: The Zesty Twist You Didn’t Know You Needed

Are you tired of the same old fudge flavors? What if I told you there’s a vibrant, refreshing twist waiting for you in the world of desserts? That’s right! The Lemon Fudge Recipe is not just another dessert; it’s a sensational treat that can brighten up any occasion. With its creamy texture and zesty flavor profile, this recipe promises to add a refreshing zing to your dessert table.

Ingredients Needed

To bring your Lemon Fudge Recipe to life, gather the following ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect balance of tart and sweet that makes this fudge unforgettable:

• ¾ cup salted butter: Offers a rich, buttery flavor that complements the lemon.
• ½ cup half and half: Adds creaminess without overpowering the other flavors.
• ⅓ cup heavy cream: Enhances the fudge’s richness, giving it a luxurious texture.
• 3 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the fudge to contrast with the lemon’s tartness.
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Used later for the swirl effect, ensuring perfect marbling.
• 1¾ cups white baking chips (like Nestlé’s): Provides a creamy base that melts perfectly.
• 7 ounces marshmallow fluff (like Jet Puffed): Adds a soft texture and sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest: Infuses the fudge with bright, citrus notes.
• 1 ½ teaspoons lemon extract (like Watkins): Enhances the lemon flavor radically.
• 1 teaspoon clear vanilla flavoring: Balances the flavors without altering the color.
• ½ teaspoon yellow food color gel: For that cheerful, fun appearance!

Timing

Prep and cook your Lemon Fudge Recipe in just 90 minutes! That’s notably quicker than many fudge recipes, offering a streamlined process that allows you to enjoy this delightful dessert with minimal fuss. Here’s the breakdown:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Setting Time: 4 hours, allowing for the textures to set perfectly.

How to Make Lemon Fudge Recipe

Follow these steps to create your zesty masterpiece!

Step 1: Prepare Your Dish

Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring it goes up all four sides. This creates a clean pull-out once your fudge has set!

Step 2: Melt the Base

In a 3 to 4-quart heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, add the butter, half and half, and heavy cream. Stir continuously until the butter melts.

Step 3: Add Sugar

Stir in the granulated sugar and keep mixing as the mixture comes to a simmer. This will take about 6-7 minutes, followed by another 3 minutes of simmering. Remove it from the heat.

Step 4: Incorporate the White Chips

Add the white baking chips to the saucepan. Cover and let the mixture rest for 3-4 minutes before stirring until completely melted.

Step 5: Marrying the Flavors

Stir in the marshmallow fluff until fully incorporated. Then, add the fresh lemon zest, lemon extract, and vanilla flavoring.

Step 6: Pour and Swirl

Pour ¾ of the fudge into your prepared baking dish. In the remaining fudge, add the yellow food color gel and stir until uniform. Drop spoonfuls of the tinted fudge over the untinted fudge base and use a skewer or knife to swirl for a marbled effect.

Step 7: Chill and Set

Allow the fudge to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before transferring it to the refrigerator for at least 4 hours.

Step 8: Slice & Enjoy!

Once set, lift the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper and cut into 6 slices x 6 slices, yielding 36 adorable squares.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (1 piece):

• Calories: 115
• Total Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 50mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 14g
• Sugars: 10g
• Protein: 1g

This Lemon Fudge Recipe packs a lot of flavor while remaining relatively light on the calories!

Healthier Alternatives For Lemon Fudge Recipe

Looking to enhance the nutritional aspect without sacrificing flavor? Here are some suggestions:

• Butter Substitute: Use coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.
• Sugar Substitute: Opt for a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup to lower the glycemic index.
• Cream Alternatives: Almond milk or oat milk can replace half and half or heavy cream for a lighter version.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your Lemon Fudge experience with these serving ideas:

• Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
• Crush some graham crackers and sprinkle them over the fudge for added crunch.
• Serve with a side of fresh berries to balance sweetness with tartness.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

While making this Lemon Fudge Recipe, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Not Stirring Enough: Always stir to prevent the milk mixture from scorching and ensure an even melt.

• Getting Too Hot: If you feel stuck, reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer—high heat can scorch the mixture.

• Overusing Coloring: Add food color gel gradually. Each brand can produce intense colors, so it’s best to start slowly.

Storing Tips For Lemon Fudge Recipe

To maximize freshness:

• Refrigerate in an airtight container: The fudge can stay fresh for up to 5 days.
• Freeze for Long-term Storage: If you plan to store longer, cut the fudge into pieces, layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container, and freeze. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Conclusion

Your search for the perfect Lemon Fudge Recipe ends here! Filled with vibrant flavors and creamy textures, this treat is sure to become a favorite. So, roll up your sleeves and get started on creating this zesty dessert today! Don’t forget to share your experiences, feedback, or any variations you tried in the comments!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the fudge is set completely?

Your fudge should be firm to the touch after chilling for at least 4 hours.

Can I use other types of citrus?

Absolutely! Orange or lime could provide a delightful twist to the classic recipe.

What if I don’t have parchment paper?

While it’s recommended, you can use a well-greased dish. But parchment makes lifting and cutting much easier.

Now, would you like to explore more delightful recipes or get tips on enhancing your baking skills? Happy cooking!

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