Name: The Joy of Christmas Fudge Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans; 1/3 cup festive holiday sprinkles or crushed peppermint candies for topping

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There’s something downright magical about whipping up a batch of homemade fudge as the holidays approach, and nothing captures that festive feeling quite like The Joy of Christmas Fudge. This recipe brings together all the rich, chocolatey decadence you crave, with a velvety smooth texture and a sprinkle of cheerful toppings that will make every square disappear as soon as you set them out. Whether you’re sharing with friends, prepping edible gifts, or creating sweet traditions with family, The Joy of Christmas Fudge is the treat that makes holiday memories last with every bite.

The Joy of Christmas Fudge Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

For a treat that feels so decadent and impressive, the ingredients for The Joy of Christmas Fudge are remarkably simple, yet each one is absolutely essential to achieving that signature creamy texture and deep chocolate flavor. When you use high-quality chocolate and a few pantry staples, magic truly happens in one saucepan!

Semi-sweet chocolate chips (3 cups): These provide the rich chocolate base, delivering deep flavor and silky meltiness.
Sweetened condensed milk (1 14-ounce can): This gives your fudge its signature smooth, creamy consistency and just the right amount of sweetness.
Unsalted butter (1/4 cup): Adds extra creaminess and a subtle buttery richness that complements the chocolate perfectly.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Elevates the overall flavor and adds a cozy aroma to each bite.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavors (don’t skip it, even in dessert!).
Chopped walnuts or pecans (1/2 cup, optional): For a crunchy, nutty contrast that takes things up a notch—feel free to omit if you’re nut-free.
Festive holiday sprinkles or crushed peppermint candies (1/3 cup for topping): These add pops of color and a hint of holiday sparkle, making every square fun and so inviting.

How to Make The Joy of Christmas Fudge

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

Begin by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, making sure to leave some paper hanging over the edges. This clever little trick ensures you can easily lift out the fudge once it’s set—no sticking, no fuss, just perfectly square pieces ready for slicing and sharing!

Step 2: Melt and Marvel

In a medium saucepan, combine your chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter. Place the saucepan over low heat and stir the mixture constantly—don’t step away! The gentle heat and constant stirring will melt everything together into a silky-smooth, glossy chocolate mixture that already smells divine.

Step 3: Flavor and Crunch

As soon as your chocolate mixture is completely smooth, remove it from the heat. With a quick stir, fold in the vanilla extract and salt. If you’re feeling a little extra festive, now’s the time to mix in those chopped nuts. Walnuts or pecans add such wonderful crunch and a lovely, nutty flavor, but feel free to skip them if you want a pure chocolate version.

Step 4: Pour and Decorate

Quickly pour the warm fudge mixture into your prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly into all the corners. Here’s the best part: scatter your favorite festive sprinkles or a flurry of crushed peppermint candies over the top. Gently press them in so they stick as the fudge cools. Suddenly, your pan looks like a holiday wonderland!

Step 5: Chill and Slice

Pop the pan into the refrigerator and let it chill for at least two hours, or until the fudge is firm to the touch. Once it’s set, lift the slab out by the parchment overhang. With a sharp knife, cut the fudge into small squares—36 is a great number, but you can make them bigger if you’re feeling generous. Each piece is a bite of pure holiday bliss!

How to Serve The Joy of Christmas Fudge

Garnishes

The Joy of Christmas Fudge simply begs for playful garnishes. Top with an extra flourish of holiday sprinkles, a drizzle of melted white chocolate, or a pinch of flaky sea salt for a sophisticated twist. For a wintry flavor, a dusting of crushed peppermint candies really drives home that seasonal cheer. Garnishes add both beauty and flavor, making each square look as special as it tastes.

Side Dishes

Fudge is a showstopper on its own, but pairing it with a hot cup of coffee, mulled wine, or creamy eggnog brings out all the cozy, comforting vibes of the holiday season. On dessert trays, arrange your fudge with other bite-sized sweets—think shortbread cookies, gingerbread stars, or candied pecans—for a festive, shareable platter that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.

Creative Ways to Present

The Joy of Christmas Fudge is as delightful to give as it is to eat! Try wrapping individual squares in wax paper or colorful cellophane for easy gift-giving, or stack them in decorative tins and tie with a bright ribbon for a heartfelt homemade present. For parties, pile fudge squares in a pyramid on a cake stand, or tuck them in holiday gift bags for take-home treats. Every presentation brings a little extra joy to the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After you’ve sliced your fudge, keep the pieces in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to two weeks—if they last that long! Line layers with parchment or wax paper to prevent them from sticking together and to keep that picture-perfect finish on each square.

Freezing

Holiday planning made easy: The Joy of Christmas Fudge freezes beautifully. Arrange the squares in a single layer (or between sheets of parchment paper) in a freezer-friendly container. Pop them in the freezer and they’ll keep well for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature whenever you’re ready for a sugary celebration.

Reheating

If you prefer your fudge a little softer, simply leave a serving at room temperature for about 15 minutes before enjoying. There’s no need for the microwave—gentle warming at room temp ensures each bite stays creamy and luscious, just the way it should be!

FAQs

Can I use different types of chocolate for The Joy of Christmas Fudge?

Absolutely! While semi-sweet chocolate chips create a classic flavor, you can substitute in dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate chips for something a little different. For a marbled effect, swirl two types together before chilling.

How do I prevent my fudge from being grainy?

Consistency is key: melt the chocolate over low heat and stir constantly for super smooth fudge. Make sure all the chocolate chips are melted completely before adding your mix-ins and pouring into the pan—this helps guarantee that creamy, dreamy texture!

What’s the best way to cut fudge neatly?

Use a sharp knife (a little warm water on the blade helps!) and clean it between cuts. This ensures straight-edged, beautiful squares every time. Chilling the fudge thoroughly before slicing also makes the process so much easier.

Can I make The Joy of Christmas Fudge without nuts or with other mix-ins?

Definitely—this fudge is totally customizable! Skip the nuts for a pure chocolate treat, or mix in dried cranberries, toffee bits, orange zest, or any favorite extras for a personal twist on the classic recipe.

Is The Joy of Christmas Fudge suitable for gifting?

Yes, it makes a fantastic edible gift! Wrap squares individually in wax paper or pack them in decorative holiday tins and tie with a ribbon. Homemade fudge, especially this festive version, brings joy to anyone who receives it.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something special about sharing The Joy of Christmas Fudge with the people you care about most. Each piece is a bite of love, tradition, and a little bit of holiday magic. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe, make it your own, and watch it light up your celebrations year after year!

The Joy of Christmas Fudge Recipe

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4.8 from 10 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Yield: 36 pieces 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the festive spirit with this delightful Christmas Fudge recipe. Rich and chocolatey, this no-bake treat is perfect for holiday gatherings or as a thoughtful edible gift for your loved ones.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional Add-Ins:

1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
1/3 cup festive holiday sprinkles or crushed peppermint candies for topping

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Instructions

Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
Melt the Ingredients: In a saucepan over low heat, melt chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter, stirring until smooth.
Flavor and Set: Remove from heat, add vanilla, salt, and nuts if desired. Pour into the prepared pan, top with festive decorations, and refrigerate until firm.
Serve: Once set, cut into squares and enjoy!