If you’re looking for a show-stopping yet easy holiday sweet that tastes as joyful as the season itself, look no further than Christmas Fudge. This melt-in-your-mouth classic layers rich chocolate with creamy condensed milk and a festive topping, making it not only a treat for your taste buds but a feast for your eyes as well. Whether you’re making food gifts, filling a dessert platter, or just indulging in a little nostalgia, this recipe guarantees a fudge that’s deliciously decadent, endlessly customizable, and always a hit at any celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of pantry staples and a sprinkle of holiday cheer to create this Christmas Fudge—the magic comes from the way these simple ingredients come together. Each one has its own special job, whether it’s making the texture silky smooth, adding a pop of color, or offering a satisfying crunch.
- Semisweet chocolate chips (3 cups): These are the backbone of your fudge, providing deep chocolate flavor and that beautiful, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Sweetened condensed milk (1 14-ounce can): Acts as both sweetener and the secret to a luxuriously creamy finish—no gritty fudge here!
- Unsalted butter (¼ cup, cut into cubes): Brings in a velvety smoothness and subtle richness; using unsalted lets you control the flavors perfectly.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and rounds out the chocolate for that unmistakable homemade taste.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Just a pinch heightens every other flavor and keeps things from tasting flat.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (½ cup, optional): For those who love a little crunch and nutty flavor, these mix-ins take your Christmas Fudge up a notch.
- Holiday sprinkles or crushed peppermint candies (½ cup, for topping): Offer a pop of color and festive flair—plus a fun contrast in texture with every bite.
How to Make Christmas Fudge
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, letting a bit dangle over the sides. This little trick might seem simple, but it makes it a breeze to pop the finished fudge out cleanly—no wrestling required! The parchment ensures your Christmas Fudge comes out in perfect, neat squares every single time.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Mixture
In a medium saucepan set over low heat, pour in the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and cubed butter. Patience is your friend here; keep the heat gentle and stir continuously with a spatula. As everything melts together, you’ll see it transform into a glossy, lush mixture—the irresistible base of your Christmas Fudge!
Step 3: Mix in Flavor Boosters
Once the mixture is smooth and fully melted, remove the pan from heat. Quickly stir in the vanilla extract and salt, then fold in the chopped nuts if you’re using them. This is where the fudge gets its lovely depth and, if you opt for nuts, an irresistible bit of crunch.
Step 4: Pour and Decorate
Scrape your fudge mixture into the prepared pan, using a spatula to smooth it into the corners and even out the top. While the fudge is still warm and soft, sprinkle it generously with holiday sprinkles or crushed peppermint candies. Press them lightly into the surface so they stick—the more colorful, the merrier!
Step 5: Let It Set
Let your pan of Christmas Fudge cool at room temperature for about an hour—it starts to set rather quickly, but chilling is key for clean slices. Once it’s room temperature, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least two hours, or until it’s firm all the way through and ready for slicing.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment overhang and set it on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut it into small squares (it’s rich, so bite-sized pieces are best). Wipe your knife between cuts for those picture-perfect, bakery-style edges that really show off your Christmas Fudge.
How to Serve Christmas Fudge
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, consider adding a little extra flair to your Christmas Fudge! Dust with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a “snowy” effect, add a very light drizzle of melted white chocolate, or top each piece with a single candied cherry to make them feel extra special. The goal is to make each square look just as festive as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Christmas Fudge is wonderfully rich, so it pairs beautifully with lighter options: think a bowl of fresh orange or clementine wedges, a hot cup of peppermint tea, or even a simple scoop of vanilla Greek yogurt. These side dishes cut the sweetness and refresh your palate for that next creamy, chocolatey bite.
Creative Ways to Present
This fudge is a true holiday superstar, so presentation is everything! Layer bite-sized pieces in decorative tins or mini paper cups and tie them with ribbons for unforgettable edible gifts. Or, arrange the squares on a festive platter alongside other seasonal treats to create a dazzling dessert board that makes the whole table feel merry and bright.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cut, keep your Christmas Fudge in an airtight container, with parchment or wax paper between the layers to prevent sticking. It’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to a week, though you can also pop it in the fridge to extend its shelf life if your kitchen runs warm.
Freezing
Got extra fudge or want to plan ahead? Christmas Fudge freezes exceptionally well! Wrap the whole block or individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place inside a freezer bag or freezer-safe container. It’ll last for up to two months and thaws beautifully overnight in the fridge (or on the countertop in a pinch).
Reheating
No need to reheat—Christmas Fudge is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature! If you prefer a softer texture, just let a few pieces sit out on the counter for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. The flavors and creaminess really shine at that point.
FAQs
Why won’t my fudge set properly?
Usually, this happens if the chocolate was overheated or the mixture wasn’t chilled long enough. Make sure to use low heat when melting and give Christmas Fudge plenty of time in the fridge—patience pays off with perfectly firm, sliceable squares!
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Absolutely—try using dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips instead of semisweet for unique flavor twists. Just know that sweeter chocolates will yield a softer fudge, so play around to find your favorite version of Christmas Fudge.
Is it possible to make this fudge nut-free?
Yes! Simply skip the chopped walnuts or pecans for a nut-free treat, and use festive sprinkles or crushed peppermint for crunch and color instead. That way, everyone can enjoy a piece of Christmas Fudge, regardless of allergies.
How long does Christmas Fudge last?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, your Christmas Fudge will stay fresh for up to one week. In the fridge, it can last even longer (up to two weeks), and it’s also easy to freeze for holiday planning ahead.
What’s the best way to cut fudge cleanly?
For neat, bakery-style squares, dip a sharp knife in hot water and wipe it dry between cuts. This makes slicing through chilled Christmas Fudge a breeze and gives you those crisp, pretty edges that make each square irresistible.
Final Thoughts
If you need a foolproof dessert that’s as festive as it is delicious, Christmas Fudge should be at the top of your list. It’s simple enough for anyone to make, yet impressive enough for gift-giving and holiday parties. Give it a try this season—you just might start a new family tradition!
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. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat for yourself, this easy recipe will have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Optional Toppings:
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ½ cup holiday sprinkles or crushed peppermint candies
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish 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 continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Flavor and Mix: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and nuts if using.
- Set and Chill: Pour the fudge into the prepared pan, spread evenly, top with holiday sprinkles or crushed peppermint candies, and let cool at room temperature for 1 hour. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
- Serve: Lift the fudge from the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into squares.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- This fudge makes a great edible gift wrapped in festive tins or bags.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
