Christmas Fudge Recipe
If you’re searching for the ultimate holiday treat that’s as easy to make as it is irresistible, Christmas Fudge is your answer. This rich, chocolaty confection blends creamy sweetness and festive flair in every bite, making it a beloved favorite at any gathering or as a thoughtful edible gift. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few minutes at the stove, you’ll have decadent squares of fudge ready to share (or savor yourself!)—plus, decorating with sprinkles or peppermint makes each piece merry and bright.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Christmas Fudge lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a starring role in creating the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture and signature rich flavor. Gather these essentials, and you’ll be well on your way to holiday magic!
- Semisweet chocolate chips: The heart of the fudge, delivering deep chocolate flavor and that classic fudgy texture.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds creaminess and sweetness while helping the fudge set perfectly.
- Unsalted butter: Lends a silky finish and balances the chocolate’s intensity.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate and gives the fudge a warm, aromatic note.
- Salt: Just a pinch sharpens and rounds out all the flavors.
- Festive sprinkles or crushed peppermint candies: For that essential holiday sparkle and a delightful crunch on top!
How to Make Christmas Fudge
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some extra to hang over the edges—this will make it a breeze to lift the finished fudge out later. This step is your secret weapon for picture-perfect squares and easy cleanup.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Mixture
In a medium saucepan set over low heat, combine the semisweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter. Stir the mixture gently and constantly, letting the chocolate melt slowly so everything combines into a glossy, smooth batter. Patience is key here—it only takes a few minutes!
Step 3: Add Flavor Boosters
Once your mixture is melted and lush, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt, making sure everything is evenly incorporated. These little additions bring big flavor, so don’t skip them!
Step 4: Spread and Decorate
Pour the warm fudge mixture into your prepared pan, using a spatula to smooth the top for an even finish. While the fudge is still soft, sprinkle your festive toppings—whether you love the crunch of crushed peppermint or the cheer of colorful sprinkles, now’s the time to make it merry! Gently press the toppings in so they adhere.
Step 5: Chill and Cut
Transfer the pan to the refrigerator and let your Christmas Fudge chill for at least 2 hours, or until completely firm. When ready, use the parchment overhang to lift the fudge from the pan and cut it into bite-sized squares—get ready for oohs and aahs!
How to Serve Christmas Fudge
Garnishes
A flourish of extra sprinkles, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of melted white chocolate can elevate your Christmas Fudge from delicious to dazzling. Add a few crushed peppermint pieces on top for a wintry pop, or top each square with a single festive candy for a playful touch.
Side Dishes
Christmas Fudge pairs beautifully with a mug of hot cocoa, a glass of milk, or even a bold cup of coffee for the grown-ups. For a dessert platter, serve alongside fresh berries, holiday cookies, or nutty brittles to balance the rich chocolate with contrasting flavors and textures.
Creative Ways to Present
For gifting, layer the fudge squares in decorative tins or clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon—perfect for sharing the holiday spirit! On your dessert table, arrange the pieces in a tree shape or stack them on a festive cake stand. You can even tuck a square atop each place setting for a sweet surprise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Christmas Fudge fresh by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay delicious for up to two weeks, making it perfect for nibbling all holiday season long.
Freezing
Need to prep ahead? Christmas Fudge freezes like a dream! Place cut squares in a single layer between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to three months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating
While fudge is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, if you find it a little too firm from the fridge, let it sit out for 10–15 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can melt and change the texture.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Milk chocolate will create a sweeter, creamier fudge. Just keep in mind it may be slightly softer, so chill thoroughly before cutting.
Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the fudge?
Definitely—stir in up to a cup of chopped nuts or dried cranberries after melting the chocolate mixture for added crunch and festive flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Christmas Fudge recipe is naturally gluten-free, just double-check your sprinkles or toppings to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.
How far in advance can I make Christmas Fudge?
You can make this fudge up to two weeks ahead of time if stored in the refrigerator, or freeze it for even longer storage—perfect for planning ahead during the busy holiday season!
What if my fudge doesn’t set properly?
If your fudge is too soft, it might need more time to chill, or the chocolate mixture may have been overheated. Pop it back in the fridge for a few more hours, and next time, melt the chocolate slowly over low heat for best results.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about sharing a batch of homemade Christmas Fudge with friends and family. With its rich flavor, festive look, and effortless process, this recipe is bound to become a holiday tradition in your home. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how quickly it disappears!
Print
Christmas Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 36 small squares 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This rich and creamy Christmas Fudge is a perfect festive treat featuring smooth semisweet chocolate chips combined with sweetened condensed milk and butter. Topped with colorful sprinkles or crushed peppermint candies, it’s an easy no-bake dessert that captures the holiday spirit and makes a great gift or party addition.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Topping
- 1/2 cup festive sprinkles or crushed peppermint candies
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring to leave some overhang on the sides to easily lift the fudge after it sets.
- Melt ingredients: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter. Stir constantly to prevent burning until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture becomes smooth and shiny.
- Add flavorings: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract and salt to infuse the fudge with depth of flavor.
- Pour into pan and top: Pour the smooth chocolate mixture evenly into the prepared pan, then use a spatula to smooth the top. Quickly sprinkle the festive sprinkles or crushed peppermint candies evenly across the surface and gently press them into the fudge to secure.
- Chill: Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours or until the fudge is firm and set.
- Cut and serve: Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the fudge from the pan and place it on a cutting board. Cut into 36 small squares and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For a variation, swirl in melted white chocolate before chilling or add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the fudge mixture.
- This fudge makes a wonderful holiday gift when packaged in decorative tins or boxes.
- Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Candy
- Method: No-Bake, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 40 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
