This Key Lime Fudge captures all the irresistible flavors of a classic key lime pie in a cool, creamy, and truly unforgettable treat. Imagine the sweet-tart zing of fresh key lime juice swirling through the velvety richness of white chocolate—each bite is bright, decadent, and loaded with tropical flair. Whether you’re craving a summer-inspired dessert that requires minimal effort or dreaming up a unique addition to your next gathering, Key Lime Fudge is your ticket to easy, smile-inducing indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Key Lime Fudge lies in its simplicity—just a handful of key ingredients create a showstopping dessert. Each item brings its own magic, from the creamy base to the zesty citrus punch, ensuring every square is as luscious as it is easy to make.
- 3 cups white chocolate chips: These create a silky, melt-in-your-mouth base for the fudge with subtle sweetness.
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk: Adds creamy texture and balanced sweetness that melds perfectly with citrus notes.
- 1/4 cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled): The star of the show, bringing that signature tart, tropical zing.
- 1 tsp key lime zest: Intensifies the citrus flavor and adds little pops of color throughout the fudge.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Softens and rounds out the tartness with a smooth, aromatic finish.
- Pinch of salt: Just enough to sharpen and balance both the sweet and tart flavors.
- Optional: a few drops of green food coloring: For a playful hint of color, echoing classic key lime pie vibes.
- Optional: crushed graham crackers or sea salt for topping: Adds lovely texture and a little nod to the traditional pie crust.
How to Make Key Lime Fudge
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. This little bit of prep pays off later, ensuring your Key Lime Fudge comes out of the pan with clean edges and no sticky mess.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Milk
In a medium saucepan set over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly, being patient as the chocolate slowly melts and blends with the milk. The mixture should become smooth, creamy, and thick—resist turning up the heat to avoid scorching.
Step 3: Stir in Citrus Magic
Remove the saucepan from the heat and, while it’s still warm, quickly stir in the key lime juice, key lime zest, vanilla extract, salt, and food coloring if using. You’ll notice the aroma instantly wakes up your senses and the color takes on a soft, inviting hue. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
Step 4: Pour and Top
Pour your gorgeous fudge mixture into the prepared pan, using a spatula to smooth the top. This is the perfect time to add a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers or a delicate dusting of sea salt if you’d like an added texture or a flavor contrast.
Step 5: Chill to Set
Transfer the pan to your refrigerator and let the fudge chill for at least 3–4 hours, or until fully set. While it can be tempting to sneak a taste early, patience here results in those perfectly sliceable, creamy squares Key Lime Fudge is famous for.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once firm, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into small squares for the ideal one-bite treat, and serve them chilled for maximum flavor and refreshing texture.
How to Serve Key Lime Fudge
Garnishes
Take your Key Lime Fudge presentation up a notch by adding some extra flair. A sprinkle of finely grated key lime zest or a touch of extra crushed graham crackers gives each piece a fresh, vibrant look. For a special occasion, top with a tiny dollop of whipped cream or even a thin slice of key lime to really capture those pie vibes.
Side Dishes
While Key Lime Fudge is a star all on its own, it pairs beautifully with simple sides for a dessert platter. Try serving alongside fresh berries, vanilla ice cream, or a crisp coconut cookie for a fun textural contrast. Add some iced coffee or a punchy citrusy cocktail for an extra festive spread.
Creative Ways to Present
There are so many ways to make Key Lime Fudge shine! Stack squares in mini cupcake liners for party-ready treats, wrap a few pieces in wax paper as sweet gifts, or arrange them on a bright, tropical platter for summer gatherings. You can even make a “fudge sampler” tray with other citrusy or white chocolate fudge varieties for delightful variety at potlucks or bake sales.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Key Lime Fudge is wonderfully make-ahead friendly. Simply store leftover squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh, creamy, and utterly delicious for up to one week. This also makes them perfect for prepping in advance for parties or gifting.
Freezing
If you want to keep your fudge for longer, freezing is an excellent option. Layer the squares between pieces of parchment paper and store in a freezer-safe, airtight container. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to two months—just be sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
Although Key Lime Fudge is best enjoyed chilled, if it becomes a little too firm in the fridge or freezer, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving. There’s no need to microwave or melt; a short rest brings it back to fudgy perfection.
FAQs
Can I use regular lime juice instead of key lime?
Absolutely! While key lime juice is traditional and has a more complex, floral tang, you can swap in regular lime juice if that’s what you have. The fudge will still be bright, citrusy, and delicious, just with a slightly different flavor profile.
Do I really need the green food coloring?
Nope! The food coloring is entirely optional and just for looks—you’ll get the same zesty taste either way. If you prefer a more natural approach, feel free to leave it out for a creamy white fudge with pretty flecks of green zest.
What’s the best way to zest a key lime?
A microplane or fine grater works best to capture the flavorful outer skin without any of the bitter white pith. Always zest before juicing your limes for the easiest handling and freshest results.
Can I double this Key Lime Fudge recipe?
Definitely! If you’re making fudge for a crowd or gifting, you can easily double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. Just be sure to chill a bit longer to ensure the thicker batch sets up properly.
How do I get clean cuts when slicing the fudge?
Use a sharp knife, and wipe it clean between cuts for neat, bakery-worth squares. For even smoother slices, slightly warm the knife by running it under hot water and drying before slicing.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s quick, simple, and absolutely bursting with citrus sunshine, you’ll fall head over heels for Key Lime Fudge. Whether you share it at a gathering or savor it as a sweet indulgence after dinner, each bite is sure to deliver pure joy. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite way to celebrate the magic of key lime!
Print
Key Lime Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 25 small squares 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy and tangy goodness of Key Lime Fudge. This no-bake dessert combines the sweetness of white chocolate with the zesty flavors of key lime, creating a refreshing treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Key Lime Fudge:
- 3 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
- 1 tsp key lime zest
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
- optional: a few drops of green food coloring
For Topping:
- crushed graham crackers or sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Fudge Mixture: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. In a saucepan over low heat, melt the white chocolate chips with the sweetened condensed milk until smooth. Add key lime juice, zest, vanilla, salt, and food coloring. Pour into the dish.
- Add Toppings and Chill: Sprinkle crushed graham crackers or sea salt on top. Chill in the refrigerator for 3-4 hours until set.
- Serve: Cut into small squares and enjoy chilled.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh key lime juice.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
