Christmas Fudge
This velvety-smooth chocolate fudge features rich cocoa depths balanced with vanilla sweetness. Perfect for holiday gifting or family gatherings, its foolproof preparation yields consistently impressive results that capture the essence of Christmas indulgence.
Ingredients
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
- ¼ cup 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt enhances chocolate flavor
- Optional mix-ins: 1 cup chopped walnuts ½ cup crushed candy canes, or ½ cup holiday sprinkles
Instructions
- Prepare your pan by lining an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment if desired.
- Combine the chocolate chips, condensed milk, and butter in a medium saucepan. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent scorching.
- Continue stirring until completely melted and smooth – this should take about 5 minutes. The mixture should look glossy and uniform with no visible chocolate chip pieces remaining.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and salt until fully incorporated. This is the moment that transforms good fudge into great fudge, so don’t skip these flavor enhancers.
- Fold in any optional mix-ins if using, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture without overmixing.
- Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared pan and smooth the top with your spatula for a perfectly even surface.
- Allow to cool completely at room temperature for about 2 hours, then transfer to the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to fully set.
- Lift the fudge out using the parchment paper overhang and place on a cutting board.
- Cut into 1-inch squares with a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for the cleanest edges.
Notes
- For the smoothest texture, avoid substituting other milk products for the sweetened condensed milk – it’s crucial for both structure and sweetness.
- This fudge will keep at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 1 week, or refrigerated for up to 3 weeks – perfect for making ahead during the busy holiday season.
- For easier cutting, dip your knife in hot water and wipe dry between slices.
- If giving as gifts, wait until the fudge is completely set before packaging to avoid smudging or sticking.
- For a more intense chocolate flavor, use a mix of semi-sweet and bittersweet chocolate chips.