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Christmas Fudge: Creamy Chocolate Fudge Recipe

Indulge in the magic of the holiday season with this incredibly decadent and easy-to-make Christmas Fudge! This recipe focuses on a rich, creamy chocolate fudge that’s perfect for gifting, sharing, or simply treating yourself. We’ll guide you through the simple steps, from gathering your ingredients to achieving that perfectly smooth and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Learn tips and tricks for customizing your fudge with festive additions and ensure your fudge sets perfectly every time. Plus, we’ll answer your burning questions about fudge-making for a foolproof experience.

What Makes This Christmas Fudge Special?

Christmas is a time for traditions, and what better way to celebrate than with a homemade treat? This chocolate fudge recipe is special because it’s:

• Easy to Make: No candy thermometer required! This recipe is designed for simplicity and success.
• Incredibly Creamy: The combination of high-quality chocolate, butter, and sweetened condensed milk creates a luscious, smooth texture.
• Versatile: Easily customized with your favorite mix-ins, from nuts and dried fruit to peppermint candies and sprinkles.
• Perfect for Gifting: Packaged in festive boxes or tins, this fudge makes a thoughtful and delicious homemade gift.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful Christmas fudge:

• 3 cups Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: High-quality chocolate is key for the best flavor and texture.
• 1 (14 ounce) can Sweetened Condensed Milk: This adds sweetness and contributes to the creamy consistency.
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps the fudge set properly.
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out the chocolate notes.
• Optional Mix-Ins: Chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds), dried cranberries, crushed peppermint candies, sprinkles, mini marshmallows.

Tips for Ingredient Selection:

• Chocolate: Use good-quality chocolate chips or a chopped chocolate bar for the best flavor. Avoid using chocolate with a low cocoa butter content, as it may not melt as smoothly.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Ensure you are using sweetened condensed milk, not evaporated milk.
• Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level in the fudge.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your perfect Christmas fudge:

1. Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8 inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.
2. Melt the Chocolate: In a large, microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter.
3. Microwave in Intervals: Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can seize.
4. Stir in Vanilla and Salt: Stir in the vanilla extract and salt until well combined.
5. Add Mix-Ins (Optional): If desired, gently fold in your chosen mix-ins.
6. Pour into the Pan: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
7. Chill: Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
8. Cut and Serve: Once the fudge is firm, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve.

Tips for Perfect Fudge Every Time

Here are some tips to ensure your fudge turns out perfectly every time:

• Don’t Overheat the Chocolate: Overheating the chocolate can cause it to seize and become grainy. Microwave in short intervals and stir frequently.
• Use the Right Size Pan: An 8×8 inch pan will result in fudge that is about 1 inch thick. If you prefer thinner fudge, use a larger pan.
• Chill Thoroughly: Ensure the fudge is completely chilled before cutting. This will prevent it from being too soft and sticky.
• Store Properly: Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

Variations and Festive Additions

Get creative with your Christmas fudge by adding festive flavors and decorations:

• Peppermint Fudge: Add crushed peppermint candies to the fudge mixture and sprinkle some on top.
• Nutty Fudge: Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the fudge mixture.
• Cranberry Pistachio Fudge: Add dried cranberries and chopped pistachios for a festive and colorful touch.
• Oreo Fudge: Add crushed Oreos to the fudge mixture for a cookies-and-cream twist.
• Decorate with Sprinkles: Sprinkle festive sprinkles on top of the fudge before it sets.

Recipe Card

Here’s a handy recipe card for easy reference:

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes | Category: Dessert | Method: Microwave | Cuisine: American

Nutrition Card

Approximate nutritional information per serving (based on 64 servings, without mix-ins):

Calories: 100 | Sugar: 10g | Fat: 6g | Carbohydrates: 12g | Fiber: 0g | Protein: 1g | Yields: 64 squares

FAQs

Why is my fudge grainy?

Grainy fudge is often caused by overheating the chocolate or not stirring it enough while melting. Make sure to microwave in short intervals and stir well after each interval. Using high-quality chocolate can also help prevent graininess.

How do I store fudge?

Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze it for longer storage (up to 3 months). Wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.

Can I use evaporated milk instead of sweetened condensed milk?

No, you cannot substitute evaporated milk for sweetened condensed milk. Sweetened condensed milk contains sugar, which is essential for the fudge’s texture and sweetness. Evaporated milk will not provide the same results.

My fudge is too soft. What did I do wrong?

Fudge that is too soft may not have been chilled long enough. Ensure you chill the fudge for at least 2 hours, or until firm. Using the correct ratio of ingredients is also important. Too much butter or sweetened condensed milk can result in a soft fudge.

Can I make this fudge without a microwave?

Yes, you can make this fudge on the stovetop. Combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to burn the chocolate.

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