If you’re searching for a delightful holiday treat that combines rich chocolatey goodness with a festive flair, this Christmas Fudge Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s an easy, no-bake dessert that fills your kitchen with the scent of melted chocolate and a whisper of peppermint, making it an irresistible addition to any holiday gathering. Whether you’re gifting it to friends or savoring it by the fire, this Christmas Fudge Recipe is sure to become a cherished tradition that brings warmth and sweetness to your celebrations.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Christmas Fudge Recipe lies in its simplicity—just a handful of quality ingredients that each play a vital role. Every item is chosen to create that creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture and festive touch that makes this fudge so special.
- 3 cups semisweet chocolate chips: The base of the fudge, offering rich chocolate flavor and smooth texture.
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk: Adds luscious creaminess and sweetness without any fuss.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Provides a silky finish and helps bind everything together perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: A pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance the chocolate’s depth.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and complexity to the flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional): Gives a refreshing holiday twist—feel free to skip or swap for almond or orange extract.
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or holiday sprinkles: The festive topping that adds crunch and eye-catching color.
How to Make Christmas Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang on the sides. This little trick makes lifting out the fudge a breeze once it’s set, so you’ll end up with perfect squares every time.
Step 2: Melt Your Ingredients Together
Over low heat, gently combine the semisweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, butter, and salt in a medium saucepan. Keep stirring constantly as the mixture melts, preventing any scorching and ensuring a glossy, smooth blend. Patience here means silky fudge!
Step 3: Add Flavor Extracts
Once melted and smooth, remove the pan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and the peppermint extract if you want that classic Christmas vibe. This step infuses your fudge with a subtle, festive aromatic lift.
Step 4: Pour and Top
Pour the luscious fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Immediately sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies or holiday sprinkles on top, then gently press them down so they stick nicely into the fudge without sinking completely.
Step 5: Chill Until Firm
Place the pan in the refrigerator and allow your Christmas Fudge Recipe to chill for at least 2 hours. This sets the fudge to a perfect sliceable consistency while allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 6: Slice and Enjoy
Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the fudge out of the pan and place it on a cutting board. Cut into small, bite-sized squares and prepare to indulge in one of the best holiday sweets you’ll ever make or taste.
How to Serve Christmas Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
While the crushed peppermint candies add festive flair, you can also sprinkle a dusting of powdered sugar or drizzle a bit of melted white chocolate over each piece for extra elegance and sweetness. Fresh mint leaves or tiny edible gold stars make for beautiful, eye-catching additions.
Side Dishes
This fudge pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee, hot cocoa, or mulled wine. Its richness balances spiced or citrusy beverages, making those chilly holiday evenings feel cozy and indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
Package your Christmas Fudge Recipe in small, clear gift bags tied with festive ribbons for charming holiday presents. Or layer pieces between sheets of wax paper and stack them in a decorative tin for a stunning centerpiece or hostess gift. Presentation adds extra joy to sharing this treat!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover fudge in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 2 weeks, ready whenever you need a quick festive pick-me-up or unexpected guest treat.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this Christmas Fudge Recipe well in advance, you can freeze it. Wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It keeps for up to 3 months without losing texture or flavor.
Reheating
Because this fudge is best enjoyed chilled and firm, reheating is not recommended. To soften slightly before serving, simply let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes — it will be creamy without melting away.
FAQs
Can I use different types of chocolate chips for this Christmas Fudge Recipe?
Absolutely! Mixing semisweet with dark or milk chocolate chips can create a deeper or sweeter flavor depending on your preference. Just keep the total amount the same for the best texture.
Is peppermint extract necessary?
Not at all! Peppermint extract adds a festive touch, but you can omit it or substitute with almond, orange, or even rum extract to create unique flavor profiles that suit your taste.
Can I make this fudge vegan or dairy-free?
This particular recipe relies on sweetened condensed milk and butter, so it’s not vegan as is. However, you can experiment with dairy-free chocolate chips, vegan butter, and condensed coconut milk alternatives for a vegan twist.
How do I know when the fudge is set properly?
The fudge should be firm to the touch and cut cleanly without crumbling. Chilling for at least 2 hours is key, but if your fridge is warm, give it a bit more time to ensure perfect slices.
Can I add nuts or dried fruits to this recipe?
Yes, mixing in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can add delightful crunch. Dried cranberries or cherries would add a tart note perfect for the holidays. Add them after melting but before pouring into the pan.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Fudge Recipe is a true holiday winner—easy to make, utterly delicious, and wonderfully customizable. Whether you’re new to fudge or a seasoned pro, this treat will fill your holidays with joy and sweet memories. So grab your ingredients, invite a friend or two, and dive into making this festive delight that everyone will be talking about!
Print
Christmas Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 36 pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This delicious Christmas Fudge recipe combines creamy semisweet chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, and festive peppermint flavors to create a rich and smooth holiday treat. Easy to prepare and perfect for gifting or enjoying at home, this fudge sets in the refrigerator with no baking required.
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 3 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional)
Topping
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or holiday sprinkles
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring there is some overhang on the sides for easy removal of the fudge later.
- Melt the Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the semisweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, unsalted butter, and salt. Stir constantly to avoid burning and until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
- Add Flavor Extracts: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract, if using, to infuse the fudge with delicious flavor.
- Pour and Spread: Pour the smooth fudge mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies or holiday sprinkles over the top of the fudge. Gently press them into the surface to ensure they stick well.
- Chill Until Firm: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours or until it is completely firm and set.
- Slice and Serve: Lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and cut it into 36 small squares. Enjoy your festive Christmas fudge!
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use a mix of semisweet and dark chocolate chips.
- Try swapping peppermint extract for almond or orange extract for a different twist.
- Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks to maintain freshness.
