Get ready to delight your taste buds with my Sugar Cookie Christmas Fudge! This sweet treat combines the classic flavor of sugar cookies with creamy fudge. Perfect for holiday gatherings, it’s easy to make and fun to share. I’ll walk you through the simple ingredients and steps needed to create this festive delicacy. Let’s dive in and make something delicious that everyone will love!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Festive Flavor: This fudge combines the sweetness of sugar cookies with the rich creaminess of white chocolate, creating a delightful holiday treat.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers looking to whip up a festive dessert.
- Perfect for Gifting: These fudge squares make a charming gift for friends and family during the holiday season, beautifully packaged or presented on a platter.
- Customizable Toppings: Feel free to mix in your favorite festive sprinkles or toppings, allowing for personalization and creativity with each batch.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 cups white chocolate chips
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup crushed sugar cookies
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/2 cup festive sprinkles
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap white chocolate chips for milk or dark chocolate chips. If you want a non-dairy option, use coconut milk or almond milk in the fudge. For sprinkles, try using chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit. This will add a fun twist to your fudge.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Baking Pan
Start by lining a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Make sure some paper hangs over the edges. This overhang helps when you lift the fudge out after it sets. It saves you from messy breaks.
Melting the Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of white chocolate chips, 1 can of sweetened condensed milk, and 1/4 cup of unsalted butter. Set the pan over low heat. Stir constantly with a silicone spatula. This keeps the chocolate from burning. You want the mixture to be smooth and creamy.
Flavor Development
Once the mixture is smooth, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract. This adds a lovely aroma. Next, gently fold in 1 cup of crushed sugar cookies. Make sure the cookies are evenly mixed in for consistent flavor.
Pouring and Setting
Carefully pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan. Use your spatula to spread it evenly. Smooth the top for a nice finish. Now, sprinkle 1/2 cup of festive sprinkles on top. Press them down slightly so they stick. This festive touch makes the fudge extra special!
Cooling Process
Let the fudge cool at room temperature for about 1 hour. Then, transfer it to the fridge. Chill for at least 2 hours or until it feels firm. You can tell it’s ready when it holds its shape well.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Fudge
To make great fudge, you want even mixing. When you fold in the crushed sugar cookies, make sure they spread out well. This way, each bite tastes the same. You also need to avoid burning the chocolate. Keep the heat low and stir often. If you see any signs of burning, take it off the heat right away.
Presentation Ideas
For serving, think about how to make it pretty. Place the fudge squares on a nice platter. You can add little sugar cookies or festive decorations around the fudge. This gives it a cheerful look. Holiday-themed garnishes like mini ornaments or themed picks also work well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One big mistake is overheating the ingredients. If you let the chocolate get too hot, it can burn. Always use low heat and stir. Another mistake is not letting the fudge cool long enough. After mixing, it should sit at room temperature for one hour. Then, chill it in the fridge for at least two hours. This ensures it firms up nicely.
Pro Tips
- Use High-Quality Chocolate: Opt for premium white chocolate chips for a creamier and richer fudge texture.
- Let It Cool Completely: Ensure the fudge cools at room temperature before refrigerating to prevent condensation, which can make it sticky.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm holiday spice twist to your fudge.
- Storage Tips: Keep the fudge in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks to maintain freshness.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can easily switch up the flavor of your sugar cookie Christmas fudge. Try adding different extracts. For a minty twist, peppermint extract works great. Just swap it in for the almond extract. This gives your fudge a refreshing taste. You can also mix in nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added crunch. If you want something more chocolatey, add cocoa powder. This makes the fudge richer and deeper in flavor. All of these options let you create a fudge that suits your taste buds.
Dietary Modifications
If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free cookies. Just crush them the same way as regular sugar cookies. This keeps the taste and texture you love. For vegan-friendly substitutions, use dairy-free chocolate chips. You can replace sweetened condensed milk with a coconut milk version. These changes keep your fudge tasty while meeting dietary needs.
Holiday Themes
Your fudge can fit any holiday theme. For Valentine’s Day, use red and pink sprinkles. It adds a sweet touch to your treats. For Easter, you can swap in pastel colors for the sprinkles. This makes your fudge look fun and festive. You can also create color-themed fudge for parties. Match the colors to your event for a special touch. Your fudge will stand out and bring joy to any celebration.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storage
Store your fudge in proper airtight containers. This keeps it fresh longer. Choose containers that fit snugly, keeping air out. Avoid letting your fudge sit in warm or humid places. Heat and moisture can ruin its texture and taste.
Shelf Life
At room temperature, the fudge lasts about one week. If you store it in the fridge, it can last up to two weeks. You can also freeze the fudge for up to three months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating Guidelines
If your fudge becomes too hard, soften it by letting it sit at room temperature. You can also microwave it briefly. If you freeze your fudge, let it cool for a bit before serving. This helps improve the texture and flavor before you enjoy it.
FAQs
What is sugar cookie fudge?
Sugar cookie fudge is a sweet treat that blends fudge and sugar cookies. It has a creamy texture and a rich flavor. The main ingredients are white chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, and crushed sugar cookies. This fudge captures all the joy of sugar cookies in a bite-sized square.
Can I make sugar cookie Christmas fudge ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this fudge ahead of time. It keeps well in the fridge for up to two weeks. Prepare it a few days before your holiday event. This way, you save time and enjoy stress-free baking.
How do I know when the fudge is ready to cut?
The fudge is ready to cut after it chills in the fridge for at least two hours. You should see it looks firm and set. When you press lightly, it should hold its shape.
Is this recipe suitable for gifting?
Absolutely! Sugar cookie fudge makes a great gift. Package it in a festive box or tin. Add a ribbon for a lovely touch. Friends and family will appreciate this homemade treat.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of white chocolate?
You can use milk chocolate, but it will change the flavor. The fudge will taste sweeter and less creamy than with white chocolate. If you love milk chocolate, go for it! Just keep an eye on melting it to avoid burning.
You now have all the steps to make delicious sugar cookie fudge. We covered the key ingredients and substitutions, followed by clear instructions for each stage of the process. I shared tips to perfect your fudge and ideas for fun variations. Keep your fudge fresh with the right storage methods.
Enjoy crafting this sweet treat for yourself or as a gift. Remember, the joy is in sharing! Happy bakin
