Go Back
+ servings
Key Lime Fudge Recipe

Key Lime Fudge

This Key Lime Fudge is a silky, no‑bake white chocolate fudge made with sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and zest for a bright, tangy, tropical treat that’s perfect for gifting, holidays, or summer dessert trays.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Course Candy, Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 36 pieces
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups white chocolate chips about 18 oz / 510 g; use good-quality chips that melt smoothly
  • 14 oz sweetened condensed milk 1 can; do not substitute evaporated milk
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter cut into pieces
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/3 cup fresh key lime juice about 10–14 key limes; or bottled key lime juice or regular lime juice
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons finely grated key lime zest only the green part, not the white pith
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 to 2 drops green food coloring optional, for a pale green color
  • extra lime zest optional, for topping
  • finely crushed graham crackers optional, for topping or a key lime pie vibe
  • toasted coconut flakes optional, for topping or a more tropical flavor

Instructions
 

  • Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides to lift the fudge out later. Lightly mist the parchment with nonstick spray if it tends to stick.
  • In a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan, add the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, butter pieces, and fine sea salt.
    3 cups white chocolate chips, 14 oz sweetened condensed milk, 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • Set the saucepan over low to medium-low heat. Stir slowly and constantly with a heatproof spatula, scraping the bottom and sides, until the white chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is thick, glossy, and smooth. Do not rush this step; if you see unmelted bits, lower the heat and keep stirring so the white chocolate does not scorch.
  • Remove the pan from the heat and let it sit for 1–2 minutes to cool slightly. Stir in the vanilla extract, lime zest, and about 1/4 cup of the key lime juice. Stir vigorously until smooth. Taste carefully (it will be warm) and add more lime juice, up to the full 1/3 cup, for a stronger citrus flavor.
    1/3 cup fresh key lime juice, 1 to 2 teaspoons finely grated key lime zest, 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • If desired, add 1–2 drops of green food coloring and stir well to create a pale green color. Start with a small amount; you can always add another drop if needed.
    1 to 2 drops green food coloring
  • Quickly pour the warm fudge mixture into the prepared pan. It will begin to firm up as it cools, so work promptly. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer and smooth the top.
  • While the top is still soft, sprinkle with extra lime zest, finely crushed graham crackers, or toasted coconut flakes, if using. Gently press the toppings so they adhere.
    extra lime zest, finely crushed graham crackers, toasted coconut flakes
  • Refrigerate the pan for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is fully set and firm to the touch. For very clean cuts, chill 3–4 hours or overnight.
  • Use the parchment overhang to lift the fudge slab from the pan onto a cutting board. Dip a sharp knife in hot water, wipe it dry, and cut the fudge into 1-inch squares or rectangles, wiping the knife between cuts for neat edges.
  • Arrange the key lime fudge squares on a serving plate or pack them into tins or boxes. Keep refrigerated until serving so they stay firm and creamy.

Notes

Yield: about 36 small 1-inch squares or 25–30 larger pieces, depending on how you slice it. Prep time is about 10–15 minutes plus 2–4 hours of chilling.
Variations:
- Key Lime Pie Fudge: Sprinkle a thick layer of crushed graham crackers in the bottom of the pan before adding the fudge; add more on top.
- Coconut Lime Fudge: Stir 1/2 cup finely shredded, sweetened coconut into the warm fudge before pouring, and top with toasted coconut.
- Margarita-Inspired Fudge (no alcohol): Add extra lime zest and a small pinch more salt; finish the top with a light sprinkle of coarse sea salt.
- Mixed Citrus Fudge: Replace part of the lime juice with lemon or orange juice.
- Extra Tangy Fudge: Stir 2–3 tablespoons softened cream cheese into part of the warm fudge and swirl it through before chilling.
Storage: Store fudge pieces in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, separating layers with parchment or wax paper. For best texture, let stand at room temperature 5–10 minutes before serving.
Freezing: Freeze cut squares in a single layer until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers. Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then let stand 10–15 minutes at room temperature before serving.
Tips: Use real white chocolate that lists cocoa butter for best melting and setting. Do not overheat, as white chocolate scorches easily. An 8×8-inch pan gives a nice, thick fudge; a 9×9-inch pan will make slightly thinner pieces.

Nutrition

Calories: 150kcal
Keyword Citrus Fudge, Key Lime Fudge, Lime Fudge, No Bake Dessert, Sweetened Condensed Milk Fudge, Tropical Dessert, White Chocolate Fudge
Love this recipe?Follow us at @Recipecs for more