If there’s one treat that never fails to bring holiday cheer to my kitchen, it’s Classic Christmas Fudge. This timeless homemade candy is rich, creamy, and loaded with chocolate flavor, making it the ultimate indulgence for festive gatherings or cozy nights in. Whether you’re a seasoned fudge fan or trying it for the first time, this recipe is wonderfully simple and always impresses with its melt-in-your-mouth texture and nostalgic charm. The best part? You can whip up a batch in no time, and it doubles as a perfect edible gift for friends and family!

Classic Christmas Fudge Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Classic Christmas Fudge is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from creating that silky chocolate base to adding a little crunch or festive flair on top. Here’s what you’ll need and why every component matters:

Semisweet chocolate chips: These deliver that deep, luscious chocolate flavor and help the fudge set perfectly.
Sweetened condensed milk: This is the secret to the fudge’s creamy, dreamy texture and just-right sweetness.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and a velvety finish—don’t skip it!
Vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate and rounds out the flavor for a warm, inviting taste.
Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and brings out all the other flavors.
Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): For those who love a little crunch and extra nuttiness in every bite.
Holiday sprinkles (optional): Top with sprinkles for a festive look that makes every square feel like a celebration.

How to Make Classic Christmas Fudge

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Before you start melting anything, line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Make sure to leave a bit of overhang on the sides—this makes it a breeze to lift the fudge out later. This simple prep step sets you up for neat, perfectly cut pieces and zero sticking.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Mixture

Grab a medium saucepan and set it over low heat. Combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir everything together slowly and patiently; you want the mixture to melt smoothly without scorching. Once it’s silky and lump-free, you’re ready for the next step!

Step 3: Add Flavor and Crunch

Take the saucepan off the heat, then stir in the vanilla extract and salt. If you’re adding nuts, fold them in now for a delightful crunch in every bite. This is also the moment to swap vanilla for peppermint extract if you’d like a minty twist on your Classic Christmas Fudge.

Step 4: Pour and Decorate

Pour the glossy fudge mixture into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly. For a festive touch, scatter holiday sprinkles over the top before the fudge sets. Those little pops of color make every square feel extra special and joyful.

Step 5: Chill and Cut

Pop the pan into the refrigerator and let the fudge chill for at least two hours, or until it’s firm to the touch. Once set, use the parchment overhang to lift the whole slab out, then cut it into neat little squares. Each piece is a bite-sized bit of holiday magic!

How to Serve Classic Christmas Fudge

Garnishes

A sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies or a dusting of powdered sugar really brings the holiday spirit to your Classic Christmas Fudge. Even a light drizzle of melted white chocolate can add an elegant touch. Keep it playful or go classy—it’s totally up to your mood and your crowd!

Side Dishes

Pair your fudge with a mug of hot cocoa, spiced cider, or even a glass of bubbly for a festive contrast. If you’re creating a dessert table, it sits beautifully alongside cookies, shortbread, or a fruit platter. The rich chocolate flavor balances other sweet treats and drinks perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For gifting, arrange squares in a holiday tin or box lined with parchment and tied with a ribbon. You can also stack them in cellophane bags for stocking stuffers or party favors. If you’re serving at home, pile the fudge on a tiered cake stand or scatter it among other holiday candies for a show-stopping centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Classic Christmas Fudge keeps beautifully at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week. If your kitchen is a bit warm or you prefer a firmer texture, pop it in the refrigerator where it’ll stay fresh for up to three weeks. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

Fudge is surprisingly freezer-friendly! Place the cut squares in a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers. Seal tightly and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready for a treat, let the fudge thaw at room temperature for about an hour before serving.

Reheating

If your fudge feels a bit too firm straight from the fridge or freezer, let it sit at room temperature until it softens to your liking. No need to microwave—Classic Christmas Fudge is best enjoyed at room temperature for that perfect creamy bite.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of semisweet?

Absolutely! Using milk chocolate chips will result in a sweeter, creamier fudge. If you have a serious sweet tooth or are making this for kids, milk chocolate is a fun twist—but keep in mind the texture may be slightly softer.

What can I substitute for nuts if I have allergies?

Skip the nuts altogether or add something fun like mini marshmallows, dried cranberries, or crushed pretzels for a different kind of crunch and flavor. The fudge will be just as delicious and allergy-safe!

How do I keep my fudge from getting grainy?

The key is to melt the chocolate mixture gently over low heat, stirring constantly. Avoid letting the mixture boil, as high heat can cause the chocolate to seize and turn grainy. Patience pays off with silky-smooth Classic Christmas Fudge!

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! For a big holiday crowd, simply double all the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan instead of the 8×8. The chilling time may be a bit longer, but you’ll have plenty of extra fudge to share (or to keep for yourself!).

How far in advance can I make Classic Christmas Fudge?

You can make it up to three weeks ahead if you store it in the refrigerator, or even earlier if you freeze it. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead treat for busy holiday schedules or gift-giving.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about whipping up a batch of Classic Christmas Fudge and sharing it with loved ones. It’s easy, endlessly customizable, and brings pure joy to every holiday celebration. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and make it a new tradition in your own kitchen!

Classic Christmas Fudge Recipe

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4.6 from 15 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 36 small squares 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Classic Christmas Fudge is a rich, creamy, and irresistibly chocolatey treat perfect for the holiday season. Made with semisweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and a touch of vanilla, this easy-to-make fudge is a festive favorite that can be customized with nuts and holiday sprinkles for extra flair.

Ingredients

Scale

Fudge Base

3 cups semisweet chocolate chips
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional Add-ins

1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Holiday sprinkles for topping

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Instructions

Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the fudge out later.
Melt Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the semisweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter. Stir continuously until the mixture is completely melted and smooth, creating a creamy base.
Add Flavorings: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and if desired, the chopped walnuts or pecans to add texture and nutty flavor.
Set in Pan: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula to create a smooth surface.
Decorate: Sprinkle holiday-themed sprinkles on top if you want to add a festive touch.
Chill: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours or until it is firm to the touch and fully set.
Serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan, then cut it into 36 small squares before serving.

Notes

For a peppermint twist, substitute 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract for the vanilla extract.
Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Alternatively, refrigerate fudge in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks to maintain freshness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert, Candy
Method: Stovetop, Chilling
Cuisine: American