If you’re looking for a show-stopping, melt-in-your-mouth treat this holiday season, you’re going to adore this Festive White Chocolate Fudge Recipe. Trust me, I’ve tried a lot of fudge recipes, but this one hits all the right notes—a creamy, delightful white chocolate layer with a rich semi-sweet chocolate base, all topped off with colorful Christmas sprinkles. It’s super easy to make, wonderfully festive, and perfect for sharing or gifting. Keep reading because I’ll walk you through everything you need to make your fudge turn out perfect every time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Balance: The mix of creamy white chocolate and semi-sweet chocolate creates a rich, balanced flavor that’s irresistible.
- Super Simple: You’ll find this recipe is quick and fuss-free, great even if you don’t bake often or are new to fudge making.
- Festive Flair: The Christmas sprinkles add a joyful pop of color and crunch, making it a great holiday gift or party treat.
- Reliable Results: I’ve tweaked this recipe based on feedback, so you get a perfectly set, creamy fudge every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients here are pantry staples, but each one plays an important role to deliver that classic fudge texture and flavor. I always recommend using good quality chocolate chips and full-fat sweetened condensed milk for best results.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This is the magic ingredient that gives fudge its creamy, smooth texture—make sure to use the full 14 oz can, divided evenly.
- White Chocolate Chips: Choose good quality chips—they melt smoothly and provide that rich, subtle sweetness that’s essential for the white chocolate layer.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Adds richness and depth with a slightly bittersweet contrast that pairs beautifully with the white chocolate.
- Vanilla Extract: Splitting it between both mixtures ensures the flavor is balanced and warms up the whole fudge.
- Christmas Sprinkles: These are not just for looks—plus, they add a fun crunch that makes this fudge truly festive.
Variations
One of the things I love about this Festive White Chocolate Fudge Recipe is how easy it is to tweak it for your own tastes or dietary needs. I almost always personalize it with a little extra something depending on my mood or the occasion.
- Minty Twist: I discovered adding ½ to 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the semi-sweet chocolate layer really amps up the festive vibe—my family goes crazy for this version around Christmas.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free white and semi-sweet chocolate chips along with a coconut condensed milk alternative for a fudge that everyone can enjoy.
- Nutty Crunch: Stir in chopped pistachios or pecans into either layer before spreading to add texture and a nutty flavor contrast.
- Layer Swap: For a fun twist, try swirling the white and semi-sweet layers together instead of separate layers for a marbled effect.
How to Make Festive White Chocolate Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan Like a Pro
First things first, line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray. This step is a game changer when it comes to getting your fudge out cleanly—no sticky mess and gorgeous square pieces to serve.
Step 2: Divide and Conquer Your Ingredients
Take your 14 oz of sweetened condensed milk and split it evenly—about 7 oz for the white chocolate and 7 oz for the semi-sweet. Put the white chocolate chips in one medium bowl and the semi-sweet chips in another. This makes melting and mixing way simpler and gives you those distinct, luscious layers.
Step 3: Melt and Mix the Semi-Sweet Chocolate
Microwave the semi-sweet chocolate chips with their half of the condensed milk in 30-second bursts. Stir well in between each to avoid scorching—patience here pays off! Once melted and smooth, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Then spread this rich, glossy mixture evenly into your prepared pan—it forms a sturdy base for the fudge.
Step 4: Melt and Layer the White Chocolate
Repeat the melting process with the white chocolate chips and the other half of the condensed milk. Again, go slow with the microwave and stir often to keep it silky smooth. Stir in the remaining teaspoon of vanilla. Then, gently fold in 2 tablespoons of your favorite Christmas sprinkles—this is when that festive magic starts to show! Spread this white chocolate layer on top of the semi-sweet base.
Step 5: Finish with More Sprinkles and Chill
For extra color and crunch, sprinkle more festive sprinkles on top before you pop the entire pan in the fridge. Chill for at least one hour, or until the fudge is set firm. If you’re like me, you’ll sneak a taste here and there—it’s just so hard to wait!
Pro Tips for Making Festive White Chocolate Fudge Recipe
- Go Slow When Melting Chocolate: Melting chocolate chips too fast can cause them to seize or burn—30-second bursts with stirring is my tried-and-true method.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: I learned the hard way that stale chocolate or vanilla extract can dull the flavor—always check freshness for maximum taste.
- Don’t Skip the Chill Time: Patience is key! Letting the fudge chill completely ensures clean slicing and the perfect texture.
- Secure Removal from Pan: Using parchment paper with nonstick spray makes lifting the fudge out a breeze, preventing cracking or sticking.
How to Serve Festive White Chocolate Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
I love topping my fudge with bright red and green sprinkles, but crushed candy canes work beautifully too—they add both color and a hint of peppermint. Sometimes, I like to drizzle a bit of melted dark chocolate on top for an elegant touch. If serving for a party, powdered sugar dusted lightly over the top makes it look spectacular.
Side Dishes
This fudge pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of cocoa or mulled wine for cozy winter gatherings. It also fits right in on a holiday dessert board alongside gingerbread cookies, peppermint bark, or spiced nuts—making your dessert table a total crowd-pleaser!
Creative Ways to Present
For gift-giving, I like to cut the fudge into neat squares, wrap them in festive parchment paper, and tie with colorful ribbon. You can also layer the fudge in mason jars with holiday-themed tags for a charming homemade gift. When serving at parties, try arranging the fudge pieces on vintage cake stands surrounded by evergreen sprigs for that classic Christmas charm.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store any leftover fudge in an airtight container in the fridge, where it keeps perfectly for up to two weeks. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper if stacking, so your pretty sprinkles don’t stick together.
Freezing
Freezing fudge is a great option if you want to make it well ahead of time! I wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When properly frozen, it can last for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
To enjoy frozen fudge, I let it thaw overnight in the fridge. Bringing it to room temperature restores that perfect creamy texture without melting it too much. Avoid microwaving fudge as it can soften unevenly and change the texture.
FAQs
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Can I make this Festive White Chocolate Fudge Recipe without a microwave?
Absolutely! If you don’t want to use a microwave, you can melt the chocolate and sweetened condensed milk using a double boiler on the stove. Just place a heatproof bowl over simmering water (making sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water) and stir frequently until smooth. I’ve done it both ways—the stove method is great if you want careful control over the melting process.
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How do I know when the fudge is set enough to cut?
The fudge should be firm to the touch and hold its shape when you press lightly. Usually, chilling it in the fridge for at least one hour does the trick. If your fudge is still too soft, give it some extra chilling time—it’s better to be patient than to cut too early and have it crumble.
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Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to this recipe?
Definitely! Adding chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or pistachios works wonderfully in either the white or semi-sweet chocolate layers. You can also mix in dried cranberries or crushed candy canes for extra flavor and texture. Just fold them in gently before spreading the layer into the pan.
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What’s the best way to achieve a smooth texture in my fudge?
Melting the chocolate chips slowly and stirring often is key—I always use 30-second increments in the microwave or melt over a double boiler. Also, using the full amount of sweetened condensed milk divided evenly keeps the fudge creamy and prevents it from drying out or becoming grainy.
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Can I substitute vanilla extract for another flavor?
Yes! While vanilla is classic and balances the fudge nicely, you can try almond extract, peppermint extract (especially for holidays), or even orange zest for a unique twist. Just adjust the quantity carefully as some extracts are stronger than others.
Final Thoughts
I absolutely love how this Festive White Chocolate Fudge Recipe brings everyone together during the holidays. It’s one of those treats that somehow tastes as good as it looks—creamy, dreamy, and sprinkled with festive joy. When I first made it, my family couldn’t get enough, and now it’s a must-have each Christmas. I know you’re going to enjoy making it just as much as eating it—so gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready for some serious chocolate happiness!
Print
Festive White Chocolate Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 36 pieces 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This festive Christmas fudge recipe features two luscious layers of creamy semi-sweet and white chocolate fudge, made with sweetened condensed milk and enhanced with vanilla extract and colorful Christmas sprinkles. Easy to prepare and perfect for holiday gifting or parties, this fudge sets quickly in the fridge and offers a rich, smooth, and festive treat everyone will love.
Ingredients
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Layer
- 7 oz (198 g) sweetened condensed milk
- 8.5 oz (about 1 cup) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
White Chocolate Layer
- 7 oz (198 g) sweetened condensed milk
- 8.5 oz (about 1 cup) white chocolate chips
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp Christmas sprinkles, plus extra for topping
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and spray lightly with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside to prepare the fudge.
- Divide Ingredients: In two separate medium-sized bowls, place the white chocolate chips in one and the semi-sweet chocolate chips in the other. Add half (about 7 oz) of the sweetened condensed milk to each bowl.
- Melt Semi-Sweet Chocolate: Microwave the semi-sweet chocolate mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each interval until fully melted and smooth. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Spread this mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan to form the first layer.
- Melt White Chocolate: Similarly, microwave the white chocolate mixture in 30-second bursts, stirring well between each until smooth. Stir in the remaining 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix in 2 tablespoons of Christmas sprinkles. Spread the white chocolate layer evenly on top of the semi-sweet chocolate layer in the pan.
- Add Extra Sprinkles and Chill: Sprinkle additional Christmas sprinkles over the top layer for a festive look. Refrigerate the fudge for at least 1 hour or until completely firm before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Stovetop Instructions: Use a double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl over simmering water without touching the water. Melt chocolate chips with half the sweetened condensed milk, stirring until smooth. Spread into lined pan and repeat for the white chocolate layer. Add sprinkles and chill until set.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Use the entire 14 oz can divided evenly between layers for perfect texture.
- Vanilla Extract: Total 2 teaspoons split evenly for balanced flavor.
- Melting Chocolate: Microwave in short 30-second increments, stirring well to avoid burning.
- Optional Peppermint Flavor: Add ½ to 1 teaspoon peppermint extract to semi-sweet layer for a festive twist.
- Setting & Cutting: Chill fudge a minimum of 1 hour until firm. Longer chilling may be needed if fudge is too soft.
- Sprinkles: Add on white chocolate layer and top for festive colors.
- Storage: Store in airtight container in fridge up to 2 weeks.
- Recipe Update: Chocolate chips amount increased to 8.5 oz per layer for a firmer yet creamy fudge.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approximate)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 5.5g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
