Hot Chocolate Fudge Recipe

Cozy Hot Chocolate Fudge Recipe for Sweet Winter Nights

Chilly evenings call for a decadent hot chocolate fudge recipe that melts hearts and warms souls.

This indulgent dessert blends rich chocolate with creamy textures that dance on your palate.

Sweet memories of cozy winter nights flood back with every spoonful.

chocolate lovers will adore how simple ingredients create such a luxurious treat.

Each bite promises pure comfort and delightful richness that satisfies deep chocolate cravings.

The magic happens when warm fudge meets smooth chocolate, creating an irresistible dessert.

Prepare to embark on a delicious journey that transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary memories.

Pro Tips To Master Chocolate Fudge Texture

Pro Tips To Master Chocolate Fudge Texture
  • Use low, steady heat to melt chocolate smoothly without burning, ensuring a glossy, silky texture every time.
  • Fold marshmallows gently to prevent deflating, creating pockets of gooey sweetness throughout the fudge.
  • Refrigerate slowly and evenly to prevent surface cracking, maintaining a perfect soft and creamy consistency.
  • Keep fudge covered in the refrigerator for up to a week, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Wipe knife with hot water between cuts for clean, sharp edges when slicing fudge squares.

How To Store Fudge For Longer Enjoyment

  • Store hot chocolate fudge in an airtight container within the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Wrap individual fudge pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen fudge remains delicious for 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Keep fudge in a sealed container away from direct sunlight and heat. Consume within 3-4 days for best texture and flavor.
  • Warm individual pieces briefly in the microwave for 5-10 seconds. Avoid overheating to maintain the smooth, creamy consistency. Let sit for a moment before enjoying to prevent burning.

What Matches Well With Chocolate Fudge

Elevate Hot Chocolate Fudge Experience

  • Marshmallow Mocha Companion: Pair with a rich, creamy cappuccino that echoes the marshmallow sweetness and complements the chocolate's depth.
  • Wine Chocolate Romance: Select a ruby port wine, whose fruity notes and slight sweetness beautifully balance the fudge's intense chocolate flavor.
  • Nutty Contrast Pairing: Serve alongside roasted almonds or pecans, which provide a crunchy texture and earthy undertone that cuts through the fudge's richness.
  • Seasonal Drink Match: Enjoy with a warm spiced chai latte, whose aromatic spices create a delightful counterpoint to the sweet chocolate decadence.

Topping Ideas For Chocolate Fudge Fans

  • Festive Peppermint Chocolate Fudge: Replace hot chocolate mix with crushed candy canes and add 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract for a cool, minty winter flavor.
  • Dairy-Free Chocolate Fudge: Swap butter and sweetened condensed milk with coconut cream and coconut oil. Use dairy-free chocolate chips to create a vegan-friendly version.
  • Nutty Chocolate Marshmallow Fudge: Mix in 1/2 cup chopped roasted almonds or pecans before pouring into the pan for added crunch and nutty richness.
  • Gluten-Free Holiday Fudge: Verify all ingredients are certified gluten-free, especially the hot chocolate mix, to make this recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

FAQs

  • What ingredients make this hot chocolate fudge unique?

The hot chocolate mix is the secret ingredient that gives this fudge a rich, cozy flavor reminiscent of classic hot chocolate. The combination of milk and semi-sweet chocolate chips creates a perfectly balanced sweetness.

  • Can I use different types of chocolate?

Yes, you can substitute chocolate chips with chocolate bars. Just chop them into small, uniform pieces to ensure even melting. Milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or a mix can work well depending on your preference.

  • How do I prevent my fudge from becoming grainy?

Melt the chocolate slowly and stir gently. Use low, consistent heat and avoid introducing water or rapid temperature changes. A double boiler helps create a smooth, glossy texture by providing gentle, even heating.

  • Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Absolutely! This fudge recipe is straightforward and requires minimal cooking skills. The key is patience during melting and careful stirring. Even novice cooks can create a delicious batch of hot chocolate fudge with these simple steps.

Why Hot Chocolate Fudge Brings Cozy Comfort

Why Hot Chocolate Fudge Brings Cozy Comfort
  • A Delightful Hot Chocolate Fudge Adventure
  • No complicated cooking skills needed, perfect for beginners and chocolate lovers wanting a quick sweet treat.
  • Combines classic hot chocolate flavors with irresistible fudge, making it a guaranteed hit at family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday parties.
  • Requires just a few pantry staples like chocolate chips, butter, and marshmallows, allowing even novice bakers to craft a professional-looking dessert with minimal effort.
  • Skip the oven and complex techniques – this no-bake recipe means instant gratification and stress-free dessert preparation for anyone craving a chocolatey escape.

Ingredients Needed For Hot Chocolate Fudge

Chocolate Base:
  • Milk Chocolate Chips: Provide a creamy and smooth foundation for the fudge.
  • Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Add depth and balanced sweetness to the chocolate mixture.
  • Unsalted Butter: Enhances richness and helps create a smooth texture.
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: Contributes to the fudge's creamy consistency and sweetness.
  • Hot Chocolate Mix: Adds extra chocolate flavor and complexity to the recipe.
Marshmallow Component:
  • Mini Marshmallows: Create a soft, gooey texture and add a classic hot chocolate flavor profile.
Flavor Enhancer:
  • Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the chocolate flavor and adds a subtle aromatic note.
Additional Components:
  • Parchment Paper or Foil: Helps with easy removal and clean cutting of the fudge.
  • Non-Stick Cooking Spray: Prevents the fudge from sticking to the pan.

Instructions To Make Smooth, Creamy Fudge

Instructions To Make Smooth, Creamy Fudge

Step 1: Prepare Baking Pan

Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, ensuring extra hanging on sides for easy removal.

Lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Chocolate Ingredients

Gather your chocolate ingredients:
  • Milk chocolate chips
  • Semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • Unsalted butter
  • Sweetened condensed milk
  • Hot chocolate mix

Combine all ingredients in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl.

Step 3: Melt Chocolate Mixture

If using double boiler, heat over medium temperature while stirring constantly until ingredients transform into a smooth, glossy mixture.

For microwave method, heat for 45 seconds, stir, and continue heating in 15-second intervals until completely melted.

Step 4: Create Smooth Texture

Stir gently to prevent air bubbles.

Slow and steady movements ensure a silky, perfect fudge consistency without grainy texture.

Step 5: Add Flavor Enhancers

Remove chocolate mixture from heat.

Stir in vanilla extract.

Gently fold in marshmallows:
  • 2 cups mini marshmallows

Step 6: Pour and Decorate

Transfer fudge mixture into prepared pan, spreading evenly.

Sprinkle remaining marshmallows on top and gently press into surface.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate covered for minimum 4 hours until firm.

Remove using parchment paper overhang and slice into delectable squares.

Enjoy your decadent hot chocolate fudge!

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Hot Chocolate Fudge Recipe

Hot Chocolate Fudge Recipe


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4.9 from 32 reviews

  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Silky smooth hot chocolate fudge promises pure indulgence with rich chocolate and creamy textures that melt in your mouth. Sweet memories of winter comfort dance across taste buds, inviting warmth and blissful moments with each delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Chocolate Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups (375 ml) semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 1/2 cups (375 ml) milk chocolate chips

Dairy and Sweeteners:

  • 1 14 ounces (397 grams) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) unsalted butter

Additional Flavor and Texture Ingredients:

  • 2 hot chocolate packets (or 6 tablespoons of hot chocolate mix)
  • 2 teaspoons (10 ml) vanilla extract
  • 3 cups (240 grams) mini marshmallows

Instructions

  1. Prepare an 8×8-inch pan by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring overhanging edges for easy removal. Apply a light coating of non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Create a melting station using a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Combine milk chocolate chips, semi-sweet chocolate chips, unsalted butter, sweetened condensed milk, and hot chocolate mix.
  3. If using a double boiler, heat over medium temperature, stirring consistently until the mixture transforms into a smooth, glossy consistency. For microwave method, heat in 15-second intervals, stirring between each session until completely melted.
  4. Maintain a gentle stirring technique to prevent air bubble formation and ensure a silky texture. Rushed mixing can lead to grainy or streaked fudge.
  5. Remove the chocolate mixture from heat source. Incorporate vanilla extract, then carefully fold in 2 cups of mini marshmallows, ensuring even distribution.
  6. Transfer the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it uniformly. Scatter the remaining 1 cup of mini marshmallows across the surface, gently pressing them into the mixture.
  7. Refrigerate the pan for 4 hours or until the fudge achieves a firm consistency. Once set, extract the fudge using parchment paper edges and slice into neat squares.

Notes

  • Customize chocolate types by mixing different percentages of milk and dark chocolate for a personalized flavor profile.
  • Prevent marshmallows from sinking by cooling the chocolate mixture slightly before adding them, maintaining their structure and visual appeal.
  • Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean, precise cuts when slicing the fudge into squares, ensuring professional-looking pieces.
  • Enhance storage by wrapping individual fudge pieces in wax paper, keeping them fresh and preventing them from sticking together in an airtight container.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 246
  • Sugar: 23 g
  • Sodium: 70 mg
  • Fat: 11 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 34 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg
Clara Thompson

Clara Thompson

Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Developing accessible single-serving recipes, Food writing and content creation, Plant-based and allergen-friendly cooking, Culinary education and workshop facilitation

Education

​Oregon Culinary Institute (Portland, OR)
Diploma in Culinary Arts

Specialized in plant-based cooking and sustainable kitchen practices.​

Portland Community College
Certificate in Food Writing and Media

Focused on recipe writing, food photography, and digital content creation.​


Clara’s food journey began with a curiosity for color, texture, and ingredients pulled straight from the garden. Her background in plant-forward cooking and creative writing gives her a unique edge – she makes healthy, flavorful food feel inviting, not intimidating.
She specializes in meals that work for busy lives and different diets, all without sacrificing taste. Clara’s voice comes through in every recipe she writes – clear, kind, and encouraging.

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