Key Lime Fudge
Key Lime Fudge is a luscious, tangy treat blending creamy white chocolate with zesty lime flavor and crunchy macadamia nuts. Perfect for lime lovers and those seeking a sweet, tropical-inspired dessert, it offers a smooth, rich texture with a delightful nutty crunch. An easy, no-bake confection for special occasions or indulgent snacking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line an 8x8 or 9x9 inch baking pan with foil, extending over the edges, and butter the foil. Set aside.
- In a heavy saucepan, stir the white baking pieces and sweetened condensed milk over low heat until the baking pieces are melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat.
- Stir in the finely shredded lime peel and lime juice.
- Mix in 1 cup of chopped macadamia nuts.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared pan. If desired, sprinkle additional chopped macadamia nuts on top.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for 2 hours or until firm.
- Lift the fudge from the pan using the edges of the foil. Peel away the foil.
- Cut into pieces and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the mixture before chilling. If you can't find white baking pieces, you can substitute with white chocolate chips, but ensure they are high quality for the best results. For a tart twist, include a few drops of lime extract. This fudge can also be made with chopped pecans instead of macadamia nuts for a different texture.
Serving Suggestions
This key lime fudge is perfect for serving at parties or as a sweet treat with afternoon tea. It pairs beautifully with Julia'S Coffee Cake for a delightful dessert spread. For a refreshing finish, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the tartness. Garnish with additional lime zest for an appealing presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store the key lime fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. Avoid reheating as it can alter the texture of the fudge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Key Lime Fudge contains roughly 1075 calories, with 22g protein, 152g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (43% of the Daily Value), calcium (43% of the Daily Value), and potassium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular limes instead of Key limes?
Yes, you can use regular lime juice if Key limes are not available. However, keep in mind that Key limes have a distinct tartness and aroma that may differ slightly from regular limes, so your fudge may have a different flavor profile.
How do I know when the fudge is set and ready to cut?
The fudge is ready to cut when it feels firm to the touch and holds its shape. After chilling for at least 2 hours, check its consistency by gently pressing the center. If it feels solid, you can lift it from the pan and cut it into pieces.
Can I add other mix-ins to this fudge?
Absolutely! You can experiment with various mix-ins such as dried cranberries, white chocolate chips, or even shredded coconut. Just be mindful of the overall balance of flavors and textures in the fudge. These additions can create a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).