This Christmas Fudge is the perfect holiday treat that combines rich semisweet chocolate with creamy sweetened condensed milk, making for an irresistibly smooth and decadent dessert. With the added crunch of chopped nuts and a hint of vanilla extract, this fudge is a great gift idea or a festive addition to your holiday dessert table.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 cup chopped nuts
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Melt the Mixture: In a saucepan over low heat, melt the semisweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir frequently until everything is melted and smooth.
- Add Flavor and Texture: Remove the saucepan from the heat, then stir in the chopped nuts and vanilla extract.
- Set the Fudge: Spread the chocolate mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Chill: Place the baking dish in the refrigerator and allow the fudge to chill for about 2 hours, or until firm.
- Serve: Once chilled and firm, cut the fudge into squares and serve.
Servings and Timing:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 16 squares
Variations:
- Flavored Fudge: Add peppermint extract for a minty twist or use white chocolate chips for a lighter fudge flavor.
- Different Nuts: You can substitute the nuts for other types, such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds, to fit your preferences.
- Marshmallow Fudge: Stir in mini marshmallows for an added texture and sweetness.
Storage/Reheating:
- Storage: Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Alternatively, keep it in the fridge to extend shelf life.
- Freezing: Fudge can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container before freezing.
- Reheating: Since this fudge is typically served chilled, there’s no need to reheat. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes if frozen before serving.
10 FAQs:
- Can I use milk chocolate instead of semisweet?
- Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but the fudge will be sweeter and less rich than with semisweet chocolate.
- Can I skip the nuts?
- Absolutely! You can omit the nuts for a nut-free version of this fudge, or substitute them with other mix-ins like dried fruit or crushed candies.
- Can I use margarine instead of butter?
- While butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, margarine can be used as a substitute if needed.
- How do I prevent the fudge from being too soft?
- Ensure you chill the fudge long enough, at least 2 hours. If the fudge is too soft, it might need a bit more time in the fridge to set properly.
- Can I double this recipe?
- Yes, you can double the recipe. Just use a larger pan (such as a 9×13-inch dish) and increase the chilling time as needed.
- Can I use a silicone baking dish?
- Yes, a silicone dish works great, as it makes removing the fudge easy once it’s set.
- Can I add flavored extracts like almond or hazelnut?
- Yes, adding different extracts like almond or hazelnut can add unique flavors to your fudge. Just be sure to use them sparingly.
- Is there a way to make the fudge less sweet?
- To reduce the sweetness, you can use dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet chips or decrease the amount of sweetened condensed milk.
- How do I store the fudge if I want to give it as a gift?
- Place the fudge in small, festive boxes or jars, and make sure it’s well-wrapped to keep it fresh during transportation.
- Can I use a different kind of sweetener instead of sweetened condensed milk?
- Sweetened condensed milk provides both sweetness and creaminess, and substituting it may affect the texture. If you need a dairy-free version, there are coconut-based sweetened condensed milk alternatives available.
Conclusion:
This Christmas Fudge is a wonderfully simple yet indulgent treat for the holiday season. With its smooth, rich texture and delightful nutty crunch, it’s bound to become a staple in your festive celebrations. Whether enjoyed on its own or given as a gift, this fudge is a perfect way to spread holiday cheer.