Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this creamy lemon fudge! It’s like sunshine wrapped in a square, and trust me, it melts in your mouth. The moment you take a bite, you get this perfect balance of sweet and tangy that just dances on your taste buds. I absolutely adore making this fudge because it’s such a simple treat that brings a little happiness to any dessert table. Whether it’s a family gathering, a picnic, or just a cozy night in, this creamy lemon fudge is always a hit!
What I love most is how quick and easy it is to whip up. Just a few simple ingredients and about 25 minutes of your time, and voila! You have a delightful dessert that’s sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to make something that feels like a warm hug on a plate!
Ingredients List
Let’s gather everything we need to make this luscious creamy lemon fudge! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups granulated sugar: This is what gives the fudge its delightful sweetness. Be sure to measure it accurately for the perfect texture!
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Adding richness and creaminess, unsalted is best so you can control the saltiness of your fudge.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: This is the secret to that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Don’t skimp on the cream—it’s what makes it so indulgent!
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is key here! It brings that bright, zesty flavor that pairs so beautifully with the sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest: This adds an extra punch of lemon flavor. I always zest my lemons before juicing them; it saves time!
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Just a splash to enhance the overall flavor. It might seem small, but trust me, it makes a difference!
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: A little salt helps balance the sweetness and brings out all those lovely flavors.
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to making some seriously delicious fudge that everyone will love!
How to Prepare Creamy Lemon Fudge
Alright, let’s dive into making this creamy lemon fudge! I promise, it’s easier than you might think, and each step is super important to get that perfect texture and flavor. Grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
First things first, you’ll want to grease an 8-inch square baking dish. I like to use a bit of butter or non-stick spray—just enough so the fudge doesn’t stick later. Trust me, this little step will save you some serious grief when it’s time to cut!
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Now, grab a medium saucepan and combine the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, and heavy cream. Turn the heat to medium and stir it all together. You want everything to melt and blend nicely. Keep an eye on it, and don’t rush this part!
Step 3: Boil the Mixture
Once it’s all melted together, let it come to a gentle boil. This is where the magic happens! You’ll want to boil it for exactly 5 minutes without stirring. It might feel weird not to stir, but this step is crucial for the fudge to set properly. You’ll see the bubbles, and it’ll start to look a bit thicker. Just keep an eye on it!
Step 4: Add Flavorings
After those 5 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat. Now it’s time to add in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir it in gently but thoroughly; you want that bright lemony flavor to shine through! The mixture will smell absolutely divine at this point, and you’ll want to lick the spoon!
Step 5: Pour and Cool
Next, pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly. Once that’s done, let it cool at room temperature until it’s set. This usually takes a couple of hours, so resist the temptation to dig in right away—patience, my friend!
Step 6: Cut and Serve
Once it’s cool and firm, it’s finally time to cut into squares! I like using a sharp knife for clean cuts, but you can also use a pizza cutter for a fun twist. Serve these delightful squares to family and friends, and watch their faces light up with joy. You’ll be the star of the dessert table!
Tips for Success
Making creamy lemon fudge is a breeze, but a few little tips can take it from good to absolutely fabulous! Here are my top pointers to ensure your fudge comes out perfectly every time:
- Use a candy thermometer: If you have one, it’s a great tool for checking the temperature of your mixture. Aim for around 240°F (116°C) for that perfect fudge consistency!
- Measure your ingredients accurately: Precision is key in candy making! Too much sugar or too little cream can affect the texture, so make sure to measure everything properly.
- Be patient while cooling: I know it’s tempting, but let the fudge cool completely at room temperature before cutting. If you rush this step, it may not set properly!
- Don’t overheat the mixture: Keep a close eye on it while boiling. If it starts to change color or burn, it can affect the flavor and texture. Just a gentle boil is all you need!
- Experiment with flavors: While lemon is the star here, don’t hesitate to play around with other flavors like orange or lime! Just adjust the juice and zest accordingly for a fun twist.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating creamy lemon fudge that’s sure to impress! Enjoy the process and have fun with it!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk numbers! I know it’s not the most thrilling part, but it’s good to be aware of what you’re indulging in, right? Here’s the typical nutritional breakdown per piece of creamy lemon fudge, based on standard ingredient use:
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keep in mind, these values are just estimates and can vary based on the ingredients you use. But hey, when you’re enjoying a piece of this luscious fudge, it’s all about balance and treating yourself, right? So go ahead, indulge a little—you deserve it!
FAQ Section
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch, I really recommend sticking with fresh lemons for this recipe. The flavor just can’t compare! Fresh lemon juice has that vibrant, zesty taste that brings your creamy lemon fudge to life. Trust me, you’ll notice the difference in every bite!
How should I store the fudge?
Storing your creamy lemon fudge is super easy! Just pop it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It’ll stay good at room temperature for a few days, but if you want to extend its shelf life, you can store it in the fridge. Just make sure it’s covered well—nobody wants their fudge tasting like last week’s leftovers!
Can I make this fudge in advance?
You bet! One of the best things about creamy lemon fudge is that it’s perfect for making ahead of time. You can whip it up a few days in advance and store it in an airtight container. Just let it cool completely before sealing it up. That way, when you’re ready to serve, you’ll have a refreshing treat waiting for you!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Oh, where do I even start? This creamy lemon fudge is not just a treat; it’s an experience! Let me share why you’ll absolutely adore making this delightful dessert.
Quick and Easy
First off, the prep and cook time is just about 25 minutes—yep, you heard that right! With only about 15 minutes of hands-on time, you can have this luscious fudge ready to set while you kick back and relax. It’s perfect for those moments when you want something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen. Seriously, who doesn’t love a quick and satisfying dessert?
Perfect for Any Occasion
This fudge is incredibly versatile! Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, a birthday party, or just looking for a little pick-me-up treat during the week, creamy lemon fudge fits right in. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brightens any dessert table, and you can even package it up as a thoughtful homemade gift. Trust me, everyone will be asking for your secret recipe!
Unique Flavor Combination
The best part? The flavor! The blend of sweet and tangy in this creamy lemon fudge is simply divine. The fresh lemon juice and zest give it that zesty pop that perfectly balances the sweetness of the sugar and cream. Every bite is like a little burst of sunshine! It’s a refreshing twist that makes it stand out from other desserts, and I guarantee you’ll be coming back for seconds (and thirds!).
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your creamy lemon fudge ready to go, let’s talk about how to elevate this delightful treat! While it’s absolutely delicious on its own, pairing it with a few extras can enhance the overall experience. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions that everyone will love:
- Fresh Berries: A handful of juicy raspberries or blueberries on the side adds a pop of color and freshness. The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness of the fudge perfectly!
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream brings a lovely creaminess that pairs beautifully with the tangy fudge. It’s like a little cloud of happiness on your plate!
- Iced Tea or Lemonade: Serve a chilled glass of iced tea or fresh lemonade alongside your fudge. The refreshing drinks not only cool you down but also enhance that bright lemon flavor!
- Chocolate Drizzle: For an indulgent twist, drizzle some melted chocolate over the fudge before serving. The rich chocolate adds a decadent contrast to the bright lemony goodness.
- Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes on top for an extra layer of flavor and texture. The nuttiness of the coconut adds a delightful crunch!
No matter how you choose to serve it, this creamy lemon fudge is sure to be a hit! Get creative and have fun with it—after all, dessert should be a celebration of flavors!
Print
Creamy lemon fudge: 5 irresistible ways to brighten your day
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 16 pieces 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy lemon fudge is a sweet and tangy treat that melts in your mouth.
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, butter, and cream over medium heat.
- Stir until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Boil for 5 minutes without stirring.
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Let it cool at room temperature until set.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- Store fudge in an airtight container.
- For a stronger lemon flavor, add more lemon zest.
- Chill in the refrigerator for a firmer texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: creamy lemon fudge, lemon dessert, fudge recipe