This Classic Christmas Fudge is the very definition of sweet holiday nostalgia—rich, creamy, and impossibly smooth, it’s a treat you’ll want to make every single festive season. Decadent chocolate, velvety condensed milk, a hint of vanilla, and crunchy nuts come together in perfect harmony for a no-bake dessert that’s as easy as it is impressive. Whether you’re gifting treats to loved ones or setting out a platter at your Christmas party, this fudge guarantees to spread joy (and a little chocolate on your fingers). With just a handful of ingredients, you’re about to discover why Classic Christmas Fudge is adored year after year!
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a few household staples, you can transform ordinary pantry items into a batch of Classic Christmas Fudge that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Each ingredient is carefully chosen: some bring silky texture, others add flavor, and a few let you put your own festive spin on every bite.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (3 cups): The heart of the fudge—choose good-quality chips for the richest chocolate flavor and smooth consistency.
- Sweetened condensed milk (1 can, 14 oz): This creamy ingredient adds sweetness while making sure your fudge turns out perfectly chewy and soft, never gritty.
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, cut into pieces): Butter adds luxurious richness and helps give the fudge that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Just a touch of vanilla elevates the chocolate and rounds out the flavor profile with a subtle warmth.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): It balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors—don’t skip it!
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (1/2 cup, optional): For those who love a little crunch and nutty flavor; add them or skip as you like.
- Festive sprinkles or crushed peppermint candies (optional): These fun toppings let you dress the fudge up for the holidays, adding sparkle, color, and a pop of peppermint if you wish.
How to Make Classic Christmas Fudge
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Begin by lining an 8×8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper or foil—leave a little overhang on the sides to make removing the fudge later a breeze. This small step saves you from sticky struggles and makes for easy, neat slicing.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate, Milk, and Butter
In a medium-sized saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir constantly as everything melts together; the goal here is a silky, lump-free mixture. Take your time—gentle heat ensures the chocolate doesn’t burn and stays ultra-smooth.
Step 3: Add Flavors and Mix-Ins
Once your mixture is glossy and completely melted, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt—this is when the flavors open up and the aroma gets irresistible. If you love nuts in your fudge, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans now.
Step 4: Spread and Top
Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared pan, using a spatula to smooth the top. Now’s your time to get creative—scatter festive sprinkles or crushed peppermint candies across the surface and gently press them in. This is the step where your Classic Christmas Fudge transforms into a showstopper!
Step 5: Chill and Slice
Transfer your pan to the refrigerator for at least two hours, until the fudge is fully set and firm. Once it’s chilled, simply lift it from the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into neat squares. For perfectly clean slices, warm your knife under hot water and wipe it clean between cuts.
How to Serve Classic Christmas Fudge
Garnishes
Amp up the holiday charm by topping your Classic Christmas Fudge with a little extra flare. Try a dusting of powdered sugar for a snowy touch, sprinkle on edible glitter for sparkle, or drizzle with white chocolate for pretty contrast. These little extras add both elegance and excitement to each piece.
Side Dishes
Pair your fudge with a mug of hot cocoa, steamy coffee, or fragrant mulled wine. For a holiday dessert platter, nestle the fudge among spiced cookies, candied nuts, or fresh berries—the rich chocolate contrasts beautifully with crisp, fruity, or gently spiced flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Gift Classic Christmas Fudge in decorative boxes or jars tied with a festive ribbon—everyone loves homemade treats wrapped with care. For parties, arrange squares on a tiered dessert platter or stack them in holiday-themed tins. You can even wrap each piece in wax paper for personal little gifts or stocking stuffers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Classic Christmas Fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh and creamy for up to two weeks. Layer the squares with parchment paper to prevent sticking, ensuring every bite tastes as good as the first.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze your fudge for longer storage! Double-wrap the squares in plastic wrap or wax paper and tuck them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw fudge in the fridge overnight before enjoying for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Enjoy Classic Christmas Fudge chilled or at room temperature—no reheating required! If you prefer it a touch softer, just let it sit out for a few minutes. Avoid microwaving, as high heat can affect the texture and cause the chocolate to bloom.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips instead?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with milk chocolate for a milder, sweeter fudge, or dark chocolate for a deeper, richer taste. Just keep in mind the finished texture may be slightly different, but the recipe is very forgiving.
What if I don’t have sweetened condensed milk?
Sweetened condensed milk is key for the creamy structure of Classic Christmas Fudge. Evaporated milk won’t work as a direct substitute here since it lacks the sweetness and thickness, so it’s worth grabbing a can for this recipe.
Do I have to use nuts?
Not at all! Nuts are completely optional—leave them out for a silky, nut-free fudge, or swap in your favorites like almonds or hazelnuts if you’re looking for a twist.
How do I cut the fudge neatly?
The trick is to warm your knife under hot water, dry it off, and slice firmly but gently through the chilled fudge. Wipe the blade clean between each cut for bakery-quality squares every time!
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just use a 9×13-inch pan instead of an 8×8, and keep an eye on the chilling time—thicker fudge may need a bit longer to fully set.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to turn ordinary ingredients into extraordinary holiday memories, Classic Christmas Fudge is the treat for you. It’s charmingly simple, irresistibly chocolatey, and always brings a sense of celebration to any occasion. Give it a try this Christmas and watch everyone’s eyes light up with every bite!
Print
Classic Christmas Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 36 small squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of this Classic Christmas Fudge. Made with just a few simple ingredients, this homemade fudge is perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Add-Ins and Toppings:
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- festive sprinkles or crushed peppermint candies for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper or foil.
- Melt the Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter until smooth.
- Finish the Fudge: Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and salt. Add nuts if desired. Pour into the pan, spread evenly, top with sprinkles or peppermint, and refrigerate until set.
- Slice and Serve: Once firm, cut into squares and enjoy!
Notes
- Fudge can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- For clean cuts, warm the knife between slices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
