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Festive Christmas Fudge Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a crowd-pleasing holiday treat, you’ve got to try this Festive Christmas Fudge Recipe. I absolutely love how it layers creamy semi-sweet and white chocolate goodness with festive sprinkles that make it look almost too pretty to eat (but trust me, you’ll want to). It’s super simple, quick to whip up, and perfect for gifting or sneaking a few squares when no one’s looking. Keep reading because I’m sharing all my best tips to help you nail it every single time!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple Ingredients: You likely already have everything in your pantry, and it comes together so quickly.
  • Perfect Texture: Creamy but firm fudge that holds its shape beautifully, thanks to the updated chocolate ratios.
  • Festive and Fun: Those colorful sprinkles on the white chocolate layer add the perfect holiday cheer.
  • Great for Gifting: Wrap it up in cute boxes or cellophane bags for an instant holiday gift everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Festive Christmas Fudge Recipe is all about combining creamy sweetness with rich chocolate flavor. The key is balancing the condensed milk with just the right amount of chocolate chips, and adding vanilla to round out the taste. Here’s a quick rundown so you can shop smarter:

Festive Christmas Fudge Recipe - Ingredients
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: This gives the fudge that luscious, creamy texture and keeps it from drying out. Use the full 14 oz, divided equally.
  • White Chocolate Chips: Adds a buttery sweetness and serves as the perfect canvas for those festive sprinkles.
  • Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Offers that classic deep chocolate flavor, cutting through the sweetness for balance.
  • Vanilla Extract: Just a touch brings out the flavor in both chocolate layers without overpowering.
  • Christmas Sprinkles: For that fun pop of color and holiday flair on top of the fudge.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

One of the things I love about this Festive Christmas Fudge Recipe is how easy it is to personalize. Whether you want more peppermint, extra nuts, or a dairy-free twist, there’s room to experiment and make it your own.

  • Peppermint Twist: When I first tried adding peppermint extract to the semi-sweet layer, it brought such a festive burst of flavor that my family couldn’t get enough.
  • Nutty Delight: Toss in chopped pecans or walnuts for some texture and crunch—I find this adds a nice contrast to the smooth fudge.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Swap sweetened condensed coconut milk and use dairy-free chocolate chips to accommodate dietary needs.
  • Extra Chocolate Layers: You can double the recipe to make thicker fudge if you prefer a more indulgent bite.

How to Make Festive Christmas Fudge Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan Like a Pro

Start by lining an 8×8 baking pan with parchment paper. Spray lightly with nonstick cooking spray so you can easily lift out your fudge later—trust me, this little step saves a lot of frustration when it’s time to slice.

Step 2: Divide and Conquer Your Chocolate

Set out two medium bowls—one for the white chocolate chips and one for the semi-sweet. Divide your can of sweetened condensed milk evenly between them; this moisture is what helps your fudge stay creamy without drying or cracking.

Step 3: Melt the Semi-Sweet Chocolate

Microwave the semi-sweet chocolate and condensed milk mixture in 30-second bursts, stirring well between each to prevent burning. When it’s smooth, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Pour this layer into your prepared pan and smooth it out evenly.

Step 4: Melt the White Chocolate and Add Sprinkles

Repeat melting with the white chocolate chips and the remaining condensed milk, again stirring every 30 seconds. Mix in the other teaspoon of vanilla and then fold in those festive Christmas sprinkles before spreading this layer atop the semi-sweet base. For extra holiday sparkle, sprinkle additional sprinkles on top.

Step 5: Chill and Slice

Pop the fudge in the fridge for at least one hour so it can set nicely. Once firm, lift it out by the parchment paper edges and cut into festive squares. If the fudge feels a little soft, giving it extra chilling time works wonders.

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Pro Tips for Making Festive Christmas Fudge Recipe

  • Use Short Melting Bursts: Microwaving chocolate in 30-second increments keeps it from seizing or burning—stir thoroughly every time.
  • Don’t Skimp on Condensed Milk: The divided 7 oz portions per layer are crucial for that perfect soft yet firm texture; less may result in crumbly fudge.
  • Add Sprinkles Last: Mixing sprinkles into the white chocolate layer before spreading gives a colorful surprise inside and on top.
  • Let It Chill Fully: Patience pays off—the fudge sets better with at least an hour in the fridge, especially if your kitchen is warm.

How to Serve Festive Christmas Fudge Recipe

Festive Christmas Fudge Recipe - Serving

Garnishes

I love topping the white chocolate layer with extra colorful sprinkles just before chilling—it makes the fudge feel so festive and inviting. Sometimes, I’ll add crushed peppermint candies for an extra holiday crunch that’s both pretty and tasty.

Side Dishes

This fudge pairs beautifully with a hot cup of peppermint tea or rich eggnog for a cozy holiday vibe. It also goes great alongside other Christmas cookies like gingerbread or buttery sugar cookies at your holiday dessert table.

Creative Ways to Present

When gifting or serving, I’ve found layering fudge squares in a glass jar with ribbons looks stunning. You can also cut smaller bite-size pieces and serve them on decorative platters with holly sprigs for an elegant touch at parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover fudge in an airtight container in the fridge. I usually keep mine for up to two weeks, and it stays soft and creamy that whole time, perfect for nibbling on as the holidays roll on.

Freezing

Freezing fudge works great if you want to stash some away. I wrap pieces tightly in plastic wrap then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When thawed overnight in the fridge, it retains its wonderful texture and flavor.

Reheating

Since fudge is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, I don’t typically reheat it—but if your pieces get too firm, leaving them at room temp for 10-15 minutes softens them back up nicely before serving.

FAQs

  1. Can I make this Festive Christmas Fudge Recipe without a microwave?

    Absolutely! You can use a double boiler method by melting chocolate chips with condensed milk over gently simmering water. Make sure to stir constantly to avoid burning. The stovetop method works just as well and gives you great control.

  2. Why is my fudge too soft or doesn’t set properly?

    Usually, this happens if the ratio of chocolate to condensed milk is off or if the fudge hasn’t chilled long enough. Using the full 14 oz of condensed milk—divided evenly—and allowing at least an hour in the fridge should fix this. If it’s still soft, more chilling time helps.

  3. Can I add other mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit?

    You sure can! Adding chopped nuts or dried fruit to either chocolate layer is delicious and adds texture. Just fold them in gently after melting the chocolate for the best distribution.

  4. How long does this fudge last?

    Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it stays fresh and tasty for up to two weeks, making it perfect to make ahead for holiday parties or gifts.

  5. Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

    Yes! Swap the sweetened condensed milk for a coconut-based version and use dairy-free chocolate chips. The texture may vary slightly, but it’s an excellent way to customize for dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Festive Christmas Fudge Recipe has become a staple at my holiday gatherings because it strikes the perfect balance between sweet, creamy, and festive. I love sharing it with friends because it’s easy to make but looks impressive, and everyone always asks for the recipe (now you have it!). Give it a try—you might just find your new holiday favorite, too.

Print
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Festive Christmas Fudge Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 129 reviews
  • Author: Paula
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 36 pieces
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This festive Christmas fudge recipe features creamy layers of semi-sweet and white chocolate swirled with sweetened condensed milk and a touch of vanilla. Topped with colorful Christmas sprinkles, it’s a delightful no-bake treat that sets perfectly in the fridge, making it an ideal holiday dessert or gift.


Ingredients

Chocolate Mixtures

  • 14 oz sweetened condensed milk, divided (about 7 oz per layer)
  • 8.5 oz white chocolate chips (about 1 cup)
  • 8.5 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips (about 1 cup)
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract, divided (1 tsp per layer)

Topping

  • 2 tbsp Christmas sprinkles


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and spray with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside to ensure easy removal of the fudge later.
  2. Mix and Melt Semi-Sweet Chocolate: In a medium bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips with half the sweetened condensed milk (about 7 oz). Microwave the mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
  3. Spread Semi-Sweet Layer: Pour the melted semi-sweet chocolate mixture into the prepared pan and spread it evenly to form the first layer.
  4. Mix and Melt White Chocolate: In a separate medium bowl, combine the white chocolate chips with the remaining half of sweetened condensed milk. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring thoroughly between intervals until fully melted and smooth. Add the remaining 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix in the Christmas sprinkles.
  5. Top with White Chocolate Layer: Carefully spread the white chocolate mixture over the semi-sweet chocolate layer in the pan. Sprinkle extra Christmas sprinkles on top for decoration.
  6. Chill and Set: Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour or until the fudge is completely firm.
  7. Slice and Serve: Once set, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper, slice into 36 pieces, and enjoy your festive Christmas fudge.

Notes

  • For stovetop melting, use a double boiler: Place a heatproof bowl over simmering water and melt the chocolate chips with half the sweetened condensed milk, stirring until smooth.
  • Use the whole 14 oz can of sweetened condensed milk divided evenly to maintain the ideal texture.
  • Add peppermint extract (½ to 1 tsp) to the semi-sweet chocolate layer for a minty holiday flavor, if desired.
  • Use short 30-second microwaving bursts and stir well between to prevent burning and promote smooth melting.
  • Chill fudge until completely firm; if soft, extend chilling time to achieve a perfect set.
  • Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
  • Recipe was updated in December 2025 to increase chocolate amounts for a firmer, creamier fudge.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 piece (1/36 of recipe)
  • Calories: 110
  • Sugar: 16g
  • Sodium: 25mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 17g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg

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