Hot chocolate fudge is a delightful treat that warms the soul and ignites fond memories of cozy winter nights. Picture yourself snuggled under a blanket, enjoying this rich, velvety dessert as its sweet aroma fills the room.
You might recall those chilly evenings spent with friends, sharing laughter and indulgence over homemade treats. Hot chocolate fudge perfectly embodies that spirit of togetherness, making it the ideal companion for movie marathons or festive gatherings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This hot chocolate fudge is incredibly easy to whip up, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish
- The rich chocolate flavor is balanced with a creamy texture that melts in your mouth
- Visually appealing with its glossy finish, this dessert is sure to impress at any gathering
- Versatile enough to customize with toppings like nuts or marshmallows, it can cater to everyoneās taste buds
Ingredients for Hot Chocolate Fudge
Hereās what youāll need to make this delicious dish:
- Chocolate Chips: Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a rich flavor; opt for high-quality brands for the best results.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This creamy ingredient adds sweetness and ensures a smooth texture; avoid evaporated milk as it wonāt give the same richness.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over saltiness; it enhances the fudgeās buttery depth without overpowering flavors.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract brings warmth and complements the chocolate beautifully; avoid imitation vanilla for superior flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Hot Chocolate Fudge
Creating hot chocolate fudge is as simple as pieāor should I say fudge? Letās break down the process into digestible steps.
Gather Your Ingredients
First things first, gather all your ingredients on the counter. This way, you wonāt find yourself searching for that elusive can of sweetened condensed milk while your fudge mixture threatens to turn into a lava flow.
Melt the Ingredients Together
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir constantly until everything melts into a luscious mixtureāthink of it as a mini dance party for your taste buds!
Add Flavor
Once melted and smooth, remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Your kitchen will soon smell divine! The combination of warm chocolate and vanilla creates an inviting aroma that makes everyone wonder what youāre up to.
Pour Into Pan
Line an 8Ć8-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal later. Pour the melted mixture into the pan and spread it evenly with a spatulaāthis step is crucial if you want uniform fudge squares later on!
Chill and Set
Refrigerate for at least two hours or until firm. Patience is key here! Resist temptationāno one wants gooey fudge blobs when they could have glorious squares instead.
Cut and Serve
Once set, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper. Cut into squares using a sharp knife. Enjoy these little bites of heaven on their own or topped with whipped cream or crushed nuts for added flair!
Now youāve got yourself an irresistible treat thatās perfect for any occasion! Whether itās movie night or holiday celebrations, hot chocolate fudge will always find its way into heartsāand stomachsāacross generations. So grab some friends (and maybe some stretchy pants) because youāre about to embark on a delicious journey!
You Must Know
- This indulgent hot chocolate fudge recipe is a chocolate loverās dream
- Rich, gooey, and packed with flavor, itās the perfect treat for cozy nights or holiday gatherings
- Plus, itās incredibly easy to make, so you can whip it up in no time!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by melting your chocolate on low heat while simultaneously preparing your fudge base. Once melted, mix in sweetened condensed milk and stir until smooth. Pour into a pan and chill until set for perfect results every time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with mix-ins like crushed nuts, marshmallows, or even a splash of peppermint extract for a festive twist. You can also swap dark chocolate for milk chocolate to suit your sweetness preference.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover hot chocolate fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For reheating, place it in the microwave on low power for short intervals until warm and melty again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve that silky texture, avoid overheating your chocolate as it can seize up
- Using high-quality chocolate makes all the difference in flavor
- Let the fudge cool completely before cutting to ensure clean edges
It was a chilly winter evening when I first made this hot chocolate fudge. My friends couldnāt resist its rich aroma wafting through the kitchen, and the smiles on their faces said it all!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Hot Chocolate Fudge?
To make delicious hot chocolate fudge, youāll need a few simple ingredients. Gather sweetened condensed milk, semi-sweet chocolate chips, unsweetened cocoa powder, butter, and vanilla extract. For an extra touch, consider adding marshmallows or nuts. These ingredients combine to create a rich and creamy texture that enhances the hot chocolate flavor. Make sure to use high-quality chocolate chips for the best results!
How long does Hot Chocolate Fudge take to prepare?
Preparing hot chocolate fudge is quick and easy. The entire process takes about 15 minutes of active preparation time. After mixing your ingredients, allow the fudge to cool and set in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This cooling period is essential for achieving the perfect consistency. Once set, you can enjoy your delightful treat anytime you crave something sweet!
Can I customize my Hot Chocolate Fudge recipe?
Absolutely! Customizing your hot chocolate fudge allows you to tailor it to your taste preferences. You can add flavors like peppermint extract or sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for a festive touch. Consider mixing in different types of chocolate or adding nuts for added texture. The versatility of this recipe means you can get creative while maintaining that rich hot chocolate flavor.
How should I store Hot Chocolate Fudge?
To keep your hot chocolate fudge fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain delicious for up to two weeks when stored properly. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing individual pieces wrapped in plastic wrap or foil. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for a delightful treat anytime.
Conclusion for Hot Chocolate Fudge:
In summary, making hot chocolate fudge is a straightforward process that yields a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can create a rich and creamy treat that everyone will love. Remember to store it properly to maintain its freshness and consider customizing it with your favorite flavors or toppings. Enjoy your homemade creation whenever you want a sweet indulgence!

Hot Chocolate Fudge
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the rich, velvety goodness of hot chocolate fudge, a quick and easy dessert that warms the heart and satisfies your sweet tooth. Perfect for cozy gatherings or a movie night treat, this decadent fudge captures the classic flavors of hot chocolate and can be customized with your favorite toppings. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delightful dessert that will leave everyone craving more.
Ingredients
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients on your counter.
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir continuously until melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract until well blended.
- Line an 8Ć8-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal. Pour the mixture into the pan and spread evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm. Lift out using parchment paper and cut into squares.
- Serve as is or garnish with whipped cream or crushed nuts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (28g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: - For a festive twist, consider adding peppermint extract or topping with crushed candy canes. - Store leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.