This easy Christmas fudge recipe is the perfect no-bake holiday treat that comes together in just 5 minutes of prep time. Featuring two stunning layers of creamy white chocolate and rich semi-sweet chocolate, this festive fudge is topped with colorful sprinkles for a beautiful presentation. Whether you’re making homemade gifts or filling up your holiday cookie tray, this simple fudge recipe will quickly become a seasonal favorite.
Table of Contents
Why This Christmas Fudge Recipe Works
Quick and Easy: With only 5 ingredients and no candy thermometer required, this is one of the easiest holiday fudge recipes you’ll find. The microwave method means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
Two-Layer Perfection: The combination of white chocolate and semi-sweet chocolate creates a beautiful contrast that looks impressive but requires no special skills.
Great for Gifting: This Christmas fudge stores well and travels easily, making it ideal for neighbor gifts, cookie exchanges, and holiday care packages.
Kid-Friendly: Simple enough for children to help make, this recipe is perfect for starting new family holiday traditions.
Ingredients for Christmas Fudge
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk (divided) – Make sure to use sweetened condensed milk, not evaporated milk
- 6 oz white chocolate chips – Good quality chocolate chips work best
- 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips – You can substitute dark chocolate or milk chocolate
- 2 tsp vanilla extract (divided)
- 2-3 tbsp festive Christmas sprinkles
Optional Addition
Add ½ tsp peppermint extract to the dark chocolate layer for a festive peppermint chocolate fudge variation.
How to Make Christmas Fudge (Step-by-Step)
Prep Your Pan
Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray. Leave overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Make the Chocolate Layer
- Place semi-sweet chocolate chips in a medium microwave-safe bowl
- Add 7 oz (half the can) of sweetened condensed milk
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until completely smooth
- Stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pour into the prepared pan and quickly spread into an even layer
Add the White Chocolate Layer
- In a separate bowl, combine white chocolate chips and remaining 7 oz sweetened condensed milk
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until melted and smooth
- Stir in remaining 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pour over the chocolate layer and spread gently to cover
Finish and Chill
- Immediately sprinkle with festive Christmas sprinkles while the top is still warm
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until completely set
- Use the parchment overhang to lift fudge out of the pan
- Cut into small squares with a sharp knife
Pro Tip: Work quickly when spreading the layers, as the fudge begins to set fast. Have all your tools ready before you start melting the chocolate.
Expert Tips for Perfect Christmas Fudge
Use Quality Chocolate: Better chocolate chips create smoother, creamier fudge. Avoid chocolate chips with additives that prevent melting.
Don’t Skip the Parchment: Lining your pan makes removal effortless and ensures clean cuts.
Cut Cold: For the cleanest cuts, slice the fudge while it’s completely chilled. Wipe your knife between cuts for neat edges.
Microwave Carefully: Overheating chocolate can cause it to seize. Always stir between intervals and stop when mostly melted.
Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
Refrigerator: Store Christmas fudge in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 weeks. Layer pieces between parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezer: This holiday fudge freezes beautifully! Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Gift Packaging: Package fudge pieces in decorative boxes or cellophane bags tied with ribbon. Keep refrigerated until giving.
Variations and Flavor Ideas
- Peppermint Fudge: Add ½ tsp peppermint extract to the chocolate layer and top with crushed candy canes
- Dark Chocolate Version: Use all dark chocolate chips for a less sweet option
- Triple Layer: Add a middle layer using butterscotch or milk chocolate chips
- Nut Lovers: Mix chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds into either layer
- Sea Salt: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top for a sweet-salty combination
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my fudge too soft? The fudge needs adequate chilling time to set properly. Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours. If still soft, return to the fridge for longer.
Can I make this on the stovetop? Yes! Use a double boiler to melt the chocolate and sweetened condensed milk together over low heat, stirring constantly.
Why did my chocolate seize? Chocolate can seize if overheated or if water gets into the mixture. Always melt in short intervals and ensure bowls are completely dry.
Do I need to store fudge in the refrigerator? Yes, this style of fudge gets too soft at room temperature. Always store it chilled to maintain the perfect texture.
How far in advance can I make this? You can make Christmas fudge up to 3 weeks ahead if refrigerated, or 3 months ahead if frozen.
Serving Suggestions
This easy Christmas fudge is perfect for:
- Holiday cookie platters and dessert tables
- Homemade food gifts for neighbors and teachers
- Christmas party favors
- Cookie exchanges
- Edible gifts in mason jars
- Stocking stuffers
Serve alongside other no-bake treats like peppermint bark, chocolate truffles, or Christmas cookies for a complete holiday dessert spread.
Why This Recipe Works for Busy Holidays
During the hectic holiday season, this Christmas fudge recipe is a lifesaver. There’s no standing over the stove with a candy thermometer, no precise temperature monitoring, and no complicated techniques. Just melt, spread, chill, and enjoy. It’s foolproof enough for beginners yet impressive enough for experienced bakers to serve at holiday gatherings.
The two-tone appearance looks like you spent hours in the kitchen, but you’ll know it only took minutes. Plus, making a big batch means you can check multiple people off your gift list with one simple recipe.
Nutritional Information (Per Piece, Makes 25 pieces)
- Calories: 128
- Total Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugar: 17g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Easy Christmas Fudge Recipe with White and Dark Chocolate
Equipment
- 8×8-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Microwave-safe bowls
- Rubber Spatula
- Sharp Knife
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk, divided (7 oz per layer)
- 6 oz white chocolate chips
- 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips (or dark chocolate)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract, divided
- 2-3 tbsp festive Christmas sprinkles
- Optional
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract (add to chocolate layer for variation)
Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides for easy removal. Lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine semi-sweet chocolate chips and 7 oz sweetened condensed milk. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract. Pour into prepared pan and spread evenly.
- In a separate bowl, combine white chocolate chips and remaining 7 oz sweetened condensed milk. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until melted and smooth. Stir in remaining 1 tsp vanilla extract. Pour gently over chocolate layer and spread evenly.
- Immediately sprinkle festive sprinkles over the top while the fudge is still warm.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until completely firm. Use parchment overhang to lift fudge from pan, then cut into small squares with a sharp knife. Wipe knife between cuts for clean edges.