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This layered Christmas fudge recipe combines the rich creaminess of semisweet chocolate fudge with a smooth white chocolate layer, topped off with festive sprinkles for a holiday touch. It’s a quick and easy treat perfect for cookie trays, gift boxes, or any holiday gathering when you want something colorful and indulgent without too much fuss.
I first made this fudge during a holiday gathering when I needed a simple but festive treat. It turned out so well that it became a yearly tradition with my family asking for it again and again.
Ingredients
- Sweetened condensed milk: provides the creamy base and sweetness be sure to use the full 14ounce can divided evenly for perfect texture
- Semisweet chocolate chips: forms the rich bottom fudge layer opt for good quality brand for smooth melting
- White chocolate chips: creates the bright and creamy top layer avoid bargain brands as they sometimes have too much oil which affects setting
- Vanilla extract: adds subtle depth of flavor to both layers use pure vanilla for best results
- Christmas sprinkles: adds color and a festive crunch choose crunchy nonpareils rather than soft jimmies to avoid bleeding colors
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Line an 8x8 baking pan with parchment paper and lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray. This ensures your fudge releases easily once set.
- Prepare the Chocolate Mixtures:
- Place the white chocolate chips in one medium bowl and the semisweet chocolate chips in another. Divide the sweetened condensed milk evenly between the two bowls, about 7 ounces per bowl.
- Melt the Semisweet Chocolate Layer:
- Melt the semisweet chocolate mixture in the microwave using 30 second increments. Stir well between each interval to prevent burning and to help it melt smoothly. Once melted, stir in one teaspoon of vanilla extract thoroughly.
- Spread the Bottom Layer:
- Pour the semisweet chocolate mixture into the prepared pan and gently spread it evenly with a spatula. The evenness here is key for neat layers.
- Melt the White Chocolate Layer:
- In the same way, melt the white chocolate mixture in 30 second increments in the microwave, stirring between bursts for smoothness. Add the remaining teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix in about half of the Christmas sprinkles for a fun swirl of color inside the top layer.
- Add the Top Layer:
- Immediately spread the white chocolate mixture over the semisweet base while still slightly warm enough to bond together. This helps avoid separation between layers.
- Finish with Sprinkles and Chill:
- Sprinkle the remaining Christmas nonpareils on top for a festive finish. Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least one hour until the fudge is completely firm.
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For a personal touch, my favorite ingredient is the vanilla extract because it enhances the chocolate without overpowering. I remember sharing this fudge during my family’s Christmas party and watching everyone’s faces light up, it’s the kind of treat that creates sweet holiday memories.
Storage Tips
Store wrapped or in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep fudge firm and fresh. If freezing, place parchment between layers to prevent sticking and thaw in the fridge before serving. Avoid leaving fudge at room temperature as it tends to soften and lose shape.
Ingredient Substitutions
Semisweet chocolate can be swapped for dark or milk chocolate depending on your chocolate preference. If you love peppermint, replace vanilla extract in the chocolate layer with a half to one teaspoon of peppermint extract for a festive twist. For a dairy alternative, you can try sweetened condensed coconut milk but results may vary slightly on texture.
Serving Suggestions
Cut into small bite sized squares for easy snacking or gift packaging. Pair with hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy winter treat. Use festive boxes or clear baggies tied with ribbon to make charming holiday gifts.
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If you want a simple, festive treat that always impresses, this layered Christmas fudge is the one to make this season. It is quick to make and perfect for gifting.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → How should I store this fudge?
Keep the fudge in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 3 weeks to maintain freshness and texture.
- → Can I freeze the layered fudge?
Yes, freezing in an airtight container is possible for up to 3 months, allowing for convenient advance preparation.
- → What causes the fudge to be too soft?
Softness often results from too little chocolate or excess condensed milk. Following the precise chocolate-to-milk ratio helps achieve the right firmness.
- → How can I prevent the layers from separating?
Spread the white chocolate layer while the bottom semi-sweet layer remains slightly warm to ensure bonding and avoid separation.
- → What type of sprinkles works best?
Crunchy nonpareil sprinkles hold up well without bleeding colors, unlike softer jimmies which can melt and blur layers.