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If you’re looking for a festive treat that instantly brings joy and nostalgia to your holiday gatherings, this Christmas Fudge Recipe is an absolute must-try. It combines the rich, creamy texture of smooth chocolate with just the right hint of vanilla and salt, finished off with cheerful holiday sprinkles or peppermint topping that truly capture the spirit of the season. This easy-to-make delight requires no baking but delivers maximum flavor, making it the perfect crowd-pleaser for your Christmas celebrations.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Christmas Fudge Recipe lies in its simplicity, with each ingredient playing a crucial role in creating that classic fudge texture and rich flavor you crave. From silky chocolate chips to velvety sweetened condensed milk, every component adds something special.
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: The chocolate base that melts down into the luscious, creamy texture of your fudge.
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk: Adds smooth sweetness and richness, ensuring the fudge is perfectly chewy and moist.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter: Enhances the fudge’s smoothness and adds a subtle creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor with a comforting warm note balancing the sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon salt: A little twist that intensifies the chocolate and balances the overall sweetness.
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor if you’re in the mood for texture.
- ¼ cup holiday sprinkles or crushed peppermint candy: For that festive pop of color and a hint of minty zing on top.
How to Make Christmas Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This little step ensures you can easily lift the fudge out once it’s set without breaking or crumbling.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Mixture
In a medium saucepan over low heat, gently combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter. Stir constantly to create a smooth, glossy mixture without burning the chocolate. Patience here pays off with perfectly silky fudge.
Step 3: Add Flavor and Texture
Once the mixture is melted and totally smooth, remove it from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt, then fold in the chopped nuts if you’re using them. This is when your fudge really starts to come alive with layers of flavor.
Step 4: Pour and Decorate
Pour the luscious chocolate mixture into your prepared pan and smooth it out evenly with a spatula. Immediately sprinkle on your festive holiday sprinkles or crushed peppermint candy, gently pressing the toppings so they stick beautifully to the surface.
Step 5: Chill Until Firm
Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours to allow it to fully set and become perfectly sliceable. Once firm, lift the parchment out and cut into charming little squares to share with family and friends.
How to Serve Christmas Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like extra chopped nuts or a light dusting of cocoa powder can personalize your Christmas Fudge Recipe and make it look even more inviting. Fresh peppermint leaves or tiny edible gold stars can add an elegant holiday touch as well.
Side Dishes
This fudge pairs beautifully with classic holiday beverages such as hot cocoa, mulled wine, or a spiced coffee to complement its rich chocolate flavor. You can also serve it alongside Christmas cookies or fruitcake to round out your festive dessert table.
Creative Ways to Present
For gifting or parties, try stacking the fudge squares in a decorative tin layered with parchment or cellophane. Wrapping individual pieces in festive wax paper tied with ribbon adds a personal and charming touch. You can even arrange the fudge on a holiday-themed platter surrounded by pine sprigs or cranberries for extra seasonal flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
One of the best parts about this Christmas Fudge Recipe is its convenience: any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, keeping the fudge fresh and delicious so you can enjoy it slowly over the holiday season.
Freezing
If you want to prepare your Christmas Fudge Recipe well in advance, it freezes beautifully. Wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for a perfectly retained texture and flavor.
Reheating
This fudge is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer a softer bite, allow the fudge to sit out for a few minutes before serving rather than applying heat.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate or white chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Absolutely! Swapping semi-sweet for milk or white chocolate will give your fudge a different flavor profile—milk chocolate is creamier and sweeter, while white chocolate brings a rich vanilla tone. Just be sure to use good-quality chips for the best results.
Do I have to add nuts to the fudge?
Not at all! The nuts add a nice crunch and flavor contrast, but this Christmas Fudge Recipe is delicious even without them. Feel free to omit or substitute with other mix-ins like dried fruit or crushed candy.
What’s the best way to cut fudge cleanly?
Use a sharp knife warmed in hot water and wiped dry before slicing. Press down firmly and clean the knife between cuts to get neat, smooth squares without crumbling.
How long does the fudge keep at room temperature?
Since this fudge contains dairy, it’s best stored in the refrigerator. At room temperature, it may soften too much and spoil after a few hours, so chilling is recommended.
Can I make this fudge vegan or dairy-free?
This particular recipe relies on sweetened condensed milk and butter, which aren’t vegan. However, you can experiment with coconut condensed milk substitutes and vegan butter to create a dairy-free version, though the texture might vary slightly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about making and sharing this Christmas Fudge Recipe with those you love. It’s simple, sweet, and brimming with festive cheer—a timeless dessert that brings warmth and smiles around the holiday table. Go ahead and give it a try; once you taste this creamy, chocolatey goodness, it just might become your new Christmas tradition!
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Christmas Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 36 squares 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Christmas Fudge is a rich, creamy, and festive no-bake dessert perfect for the holiday season. Made with semi-sweet chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, and buttery smoothness, it’s topped with cheerful holiday sprinkles or crushed peppermint candy for an extra seasonal touch. Easy to prepare and ideal for gift-giving or celebrations, this fudge delivers classic holiday flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
Optional Mix-ins & Toppings
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- ¼ cup holiday sprinkles or crushed peppermint candy for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the baking pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring there is an overhang on the sides. This overhang will help you easily lift the fudge out once it’s set.
- Melt the fudge ingredients: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir continuously to allow everything to melt smoothly and blend together into a creamy consistency.
- Add flavorings and nuts: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and chopped nuts if you are using them. This enhances the flavor and adds texture to your fudge.
- Pour and top: Immediately pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Sprinkle your choice of festive holiday sprinkles or crushed peppermint candy evenly over the top. Gently press them into the fudge to help them stick.
- Chill to set: Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is firm to the touch.
- Serve: Once set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the fudge from the pan. Cut into 36 small squares and serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- This fudge can be made up to a week in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
- For variety, you can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with white or dark chocolate chips.
- Feel free to experiment with different toppings such as dried fruit, crushed cookies, or other festive decorations to suit your taste and occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
