If you’re looking for the ultimate festive treat, look no further than Christmas Fudge. This recipe combines rich, silky chocolate with a creamy texture and a delightful crunch from optional nuts, all crowned with joyful sprinkles or crushed peppermint. Christmas Fudge is surprisingly simple to make but delivers big on holiday spirit, making it a perfect addition to your dessert table, a thoughtful homemade gift, or just a cozy snack to enjoy while watching holiday movies with your loved ones.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Christmas Fudge comes together with just a handful of pantry staples, each one playing a starring role in creating that decadent flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Don’t skip any ingredient if you want the fudge to really sing with holiday cheer!
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (3 cups): The foundation of our fudge, these chips provide intense chocolate flavor and smoothness.
- Sweetened condensed milk (1–14 oz can): This wonder ingredient adds creamy sweetness and helps the fudge set perfectly.
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup): Butter adds richness and gives the fudge a velvety mouthfeel.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): A dash of vanilla rounds out the chocolate’s flavor and adds warmth.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and deepen the chocolate notes.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (1/2 cup, optional): For nutty crunch and classic holiday flair, add nuts (or leave them out for a smoother fudge).
- Festive sprinkles or crushed peppermint candies (1/3 cup, for topping): These bring a burst of color or minty sparkle to every square, making your Christmas Fudge as pretty as it is delicious.
How to Make Christmas Fudge
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some extra hanging over the edges. This little trick is essential for lifting the finished fudge out effortlessly later, saving you from any sticky situations!
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate, Milk, and Butter
Place the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter into a medium saucepan. Set it over low heat—patience is key! Stir constantly with a spatula or wooden spoon. In just a few minutes, everything will blend together into one gorgeous, glossy mixture.
Step 3: Add Flavors and Nuts
Once the mixture is completely smooth, remove the pan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and chopped nuts if you’re using them. This is when you can also add a holiday twist—try 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint or almond extract for more seasonal magic!
Step 4: Pour and Decorate
Quickly pour the fudge mixture into your prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth out the top as evenly as possible. Right away, scatter your festive sprinkles or crushed peppermint candies over the fudge and press them down gently so they stick.
Step 5: Chill Until Set
Transfer the pan to the refrigerator and let your fudge chill for at least 2 hours, or until it is completely firm. The anticipation is worth it! Once set, grab those parchment edges to lift the fudge out and place it on a cutting board. Slice into small, satisfying squares.
How to Serve Christmas Fudge
Garnishes
Get creative with your Christmas Fudge toppings! Besides classic sprinkles or crushed peppermint, try flaked sea salt, edible glitter, or a drizzle of white chocolate. A little extra garnish makes each square look like a miniature wrapped present.
Side Dishes
This fudge loves a companion. Pair it with hot cocoa, mulled cider, or a cup of coffee for an after-dinner treat. On a party platter, set it alongside holiday cookies, candied nuts, or sliced fruit for a festive and well-balanced dessert spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Christmas Fudge makes a fantastic edible gift! Wrap pieces in colorful wax paper or tuck them into festive boxes and tins. Stack a few squares, tie them with ribbon, and add a handmade label for an extra personal touch. If you entertain, display the fudge on a tiered cake stand or scatter pieces on a bed of evergreen sprigs for that storybook holiday look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover Christmas Fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Place wax or parchment paper between layers to keep the pieces from sticking together. Let fudge sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before enjoying for the softest, most luscious bite.
Freezing
For long-term storage, freeze your fudge! Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them all in a freezer-safe bag or container. Christmas Fudge will keep beautifully in the freezer for up to two months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
Fudge doesn’t require reheating, but if you love an extra-soft bite, let your squares rest at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before eating. Avoid microwaving, as it can melt your beautiful fudge rather than just soften it!
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?
Absolutely! While semi-sweet gives that classic deep chocolate flavor, milk chocolate chips will make your Christmas Fudge even sweeter and creamier. Just remember, the texture will still be heavenly either way.
How do I keep my fudge from turning grainy?
Stir constantly over low heat and make sure all ingredients are melted and combined before removing from the stove. Quick temperature changes or overheating causes sugar to crystallize, which can give the fudge a gritty feel.
Is this recipe suitable for nut allergies?
Yes! The nuts are completely optional. Skip them for a nut-free version, but you can add dried cranberries, mini marshmallows, or just lean into tons of fun sprinkles instead.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Definitely. Just use a 9×13-inch pan instead of an 8×8 and keep an eye on the setting time—a larger batch may need a bit more time in the fridge to get fully firm.
How far in advance can I make Christmas Fudge?
You can make Christmas Fudge up to a week before your event. Store it tightly covered in the fridge, and it will be just as delightful on party day. It’s a true lifesaver for busy holiday schedules!
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Fudge recipe brings together everything I love about the holidays: effortless prep, irresistible flavor, cheery colors, and homemade warmth. So go ahead, gather your favorite toppings and whip up a pan—this could easily become your new favorite holiday tradition. Enjoy every chocolatey bite and share the sweetness with those you love!
Print
Christmas Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 36 small squares 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich, chocolatey goodness of this Christmas Fudge. A decadent treat that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or as a thoughtful gift for friends and family.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/3 cup festive sprinkles or crushed peppermint candies (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Melt the Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir constantly until melted and smooth.
- Add Flavor: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, salt, and nuts if desired.
- Set and Decorate: Pour the fudge into the pan, smooth the top, and sprinkle with festive toppings. Refrigerate until set.
- Serve: Lift the fudge out using the parchment overhang, cut into squares, and enjoy!
Notes
- Enhance with 1/2 teaspoon peppermint or almond extract for extra holiday flair.
- Fudge can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Allow to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for a softer texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
