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No more short, stumpy chocolate fudge. This easy fudge recipe looks store-bought because it’s super tall and thick, but tastes so much better because it’s homemade. Plus, this foolproof recipe is made in the microwave. It doesn’t get easier than this!
This Chocolate Fudge Recipe is perfect for Christmas!
One of my favorite things about this fudge is that it makes super tall fudge! No more short, stumpy fudge. Our recipe is like true candy store fudge because of it’s height!
When we make our Christmas cookie tins each year, we always add fudge! Christmas fudge is easy to make and takes about 5 minutes to prep.
Sea salt caramels are another favorite Christmas candy to include in cookie tins!
Very Important Tip for this Chocolate Fudge Recipe
There is one very important tip when making fudge with sweetened condensed milk. Do NOT over heat it while microwaving!
For this recipe you’ll microwave the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk for 1 minute. Once you pull the bowl out of the microwave, it may look like it needs more time in the microwave, but trust me, the chocolate chips will fully melt while you stir everything together.
Over heating the fudge during the microwaving process is a guaranteed way of creating dry, crumbly fudge that can’t be fixed.
Ingredients for Easy Christmas Fudge
- Sweetened condensed milk: Use two 14 oz cans.
- Chocolate chips: I used Ghirardelli semi-sweet chocolate chips. For best results use a higher quality brand.
- Vanilla extract and Salt: adds flavor and the salt balances the sweetness.
If you’re looking for a fudge recipe that is vegan, low carb and keto try this easy chocolate fudge recipe.
How to Make Easy Chocolate Fudge
- Line a square 8 or 9 inch baking dish with aluminum foil. Make sure the foil goes up the sides of the pan because this fudge is tall! Set aside.
- In a glass microwave safe bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and chocolate chips. Stir with a spatula until combined.
- Microwave on full power for 1 minute and 30 seconds. Do not microwave longer, the mixture will melt and come together as you stir. Add in the salt and vanilla extract. Stir until the chocolate chips are melted and combined. Over microwaving can cause the chocolate to scorch and the fudge will be crumbly.
- Transfer the fudge to the pan and spread into an even thickness. Allow the fudge to set on the counter for at least 6 hours, overnight is great too. You can loosely cover the top of the fudge with foil or plastic wrap.
- Once the fudge is set, cut into squares. Store in an airtight container on the counter for up to 1-2 weeks.
How to Cool this Christmas Fudge Recipe
I recommend cooling fudge on the counter. This allows the fudge to cool slowly.
If you place the fudge in the fridge to speed up the cooling process, the rapid change in temperature can cause the sugar to crystallize too quickly, causing a grainy texture.
How to Store Microwave Chocolate Fudge
Store fudge in an airtight container. Fudge will last for 1-2 weeks in a container on the counter.
How to freeze this Chocolate Fudge Recipe
You can freeze fudge as a large slab or fudge that’s been cut into pieces. For either method, wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap and place inside a zip lock freezer bag. Fudge can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To thaw, place the fudge in the fridge for 24 hours.
Easy Christmas Fudge Variations
To give this fudge a nutty crunch, add 2 cups of chopped walnuts once the chocolate chips are melted.
For a chocolate peppermint twist, add in crushed candy canes or peppermint pieces.
Easy Chocolate Fudge Recipe Tips
- For best results, use high quality chocolate chips.
- Line the pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy removal of the fudge.
- Allow the fudge to set completely before cutting into pieces.
- For perfect squares, I recommend using a ruler while cutting the fudge.
Microwave Chocolate Fudge FAQs
Fudge is all about sugar crystallization. The number one reason fudge turns out dry and crumbly is because the fudge mixture was overcooked / overheated.
Unfortunately, with microwave fudge there is no good way to salvage overcooked fudge. I recommend microwaving the fudge ingredients in a glass bowl for the most even heating. Be sure to microwave the fudge exactly as the directions state, do not add additional time.
Wrapping fudge for Christmas can be a fun and festive way to create edible gifts or holiday treats. Here are some creative and decorative ideas for wrapping fudge for the holiday season:
Holiday Tinsel or Twine: Wrap fudge pieces in parchment paper, secure the ends with holiday-themed twine or tinsel, and tie them into a twist or bow. This adds a touch of sparkle and festivity.
Cookie Cutter Shapes: Mold your fudge into festive holiday shapes using cookie cutters. Wrap these in cellophane bags and attach a cookie cutter to the outside as a fun and useful decoration.
Mini Holiday Stockings: Place fudge in mini holiday stockings and hang them as ornaments on your Christmas tree. This adds a decorative and edible touch to your holiday decorations.
Remember to keep your fudge well-protected to maintain its freshness and prevent it from sticking to the packaging. Whether you’re gifting fudge to friends and family or using it as a holiday party treat, these creative wrapping ideas can make your Christmas fudge extra special.
Use a microwave-safe bowl and a microwave with adjustable power settings. Avoid cooking fudge on high power as it can lead to overcooking and a gritty texture. Start with 50% power and adjust as needed. Stir the fudge mixture thoroughly and evenly before microwaving and between each microwave session. This helps distribute the heat and prevent hot spots that can lead to uneven cooking. Instead of microwaving for an extended period, microwave the mixture in short bursts, typically for 30-second intervals. This allows for better control over the cooking process and helps prevent overcooking.
More Fudge Recipes
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Easy Christmas Fudge
Ingredients
- 2 cans sweetened condensed milk, 14 oz each
- 5 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Line a square 8 or 9 inch baking dish with aluminum foil. Make sure the foil goes up the sides of the pan because this fudge is tall! Set aside.
- In a glass microwave safe bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and chocolate chips. Stir with a spatula until combined.
- Microwave on full power for 1 minute and 30 seconds. Do not microwave longer, the mixture will melt and come together as you stir. Add in the salt and vanilla extract. Stir until the chocolate chips are melted and combined. Over microwaving can cause the chocolate to scorch and the fudge will be crumbly.
- Transfer the fudge to the pan and spread into an even thickness. Allow the fudge to set on the counter for at least 6 hours, overnight is great too. You can loosely cover the top of the fudge with foil or plastic wrap.
- Once the fudge is set, cut into squares. Store in an airtight container on the counter for up to 1-2 weeks.
Looks delicious! Will be making this fudge soon.
Can this be made stove top?
Love your recipes!
Yes, it can be made on the stove!
Hi, can this recipe be halved and if so would you reduce microwave times also? Many thanks
Yes, reduce microwave times and adjust as needed!
One of the easiest fudge recipes I have made. Creamy and yummy. My family and co-workers loved it.