Get ready to make the most joyful treat this Christmas: Sugar Cookie Christmas Fudge! This simple and fun recipe blends the flavors of classic sugar cookies with creamy fudge. You’ll impress your friends and family with this festive delight. In this post, I’ll guide you through each step, from gathering ingredients to perfecting your fudge. Let’s dive into sweet holiday magic together!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Festive Flavor: This fudge captures the essence of Christmas with its sweet and buttery taste, reminiscent of classic sugar cookies.
- Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Make Ahead: This fudge can be prepared in advance, making it an excellent choice for holiday gatherings or gifting.
- Customizable: Add your favorite festive sprinkles or mix-ins to personalize the fudge to your liking!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make Sugar Cookie Christmas Fudge, you’ll need a few key items. Here is the list:
– 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
Measuring Tips for Perfect Fudge
Measuring ingredients correctly is key to great fudge. Here are some tips:
– Use dry measuring cups for the white chocolate chips and sugar cookies.
– Level off the top of each cup with a knife for accuracy.
– For the sweetened condensed milk, pour it into a liquid measuring cup and check at eye level.
– Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for butter and chocolate.
Suggested Brands for Best Results
Certain brands work best for this fudge recipe. Here are my top picks:
– For white chocolate chips, try Ghirardelli or Nestlé.
– Sweetened condensed milk from Eagle Brand is thick and creamy.
– Use Land O’Lakes for high-quality unsalted butter.
– For extracts, look for Nielsen-Massey for strong flavors.
– For sprinkles, I recommend Wilton for vibrant colors and fun shapes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Process
Start by gathering all your ingredients. You need:
– 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
First, line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Leave some overhang for easy removal. This step is key for a neat finish.
Melting and Combining Ingredients
Next, use a medium saucepan. Set it on low heat. Add the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter. Stir continuously until everything melts and becomes smooth. This part takes patience, but it is worth it.
Once it melts, take the pan off the heat. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts. The smell will be amazing! Now, gently fold in the crushed sugar cookies. Make sure they mix well into the fudge.
Cooling and Setting the Fudge
Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Sprinkle the festive sprinkles on top. Press them gently to make sure they stick.
Let the fudge cool at room temperature for about one hour. After that, transfer it to the fridge. Let it set for at least two hours.
Once it’s firm, lift it out using the parchment paper. Cut it into small squares. Your Sugar Cookie Christmas Fudge is now ready to share and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Right Texture
To get the best fudge, you want a smooth and creamy texture. Start by using low heat when melting the chocolate. If the heat is too high, the chocolate can seize up. Stir often for even melting. Once combined, fold in the crushed sugar cookies gently. This keeps the mixture light and fluffy.
How to Avoid Common Mistakes
One common mistake is overcooking the fudge. If you cook it too long, it can become dry. Make sure to watch it closely as you melt the ingredients together. Another mistake is not using enough sprinkles. They add fun and joy to your fudge. Press them in well, so they stick to the top.
Presentation Ideas for Serving
For a festive display, cut the fudge into small squares. Arrange them on a colorful platter. You can also add extra sugar cookies around the fudge. This creates a cheerful look. Use small holiday decorations for extra flair. A simple touch makes your treat more inviting.
Pro Tips
- Use High-Quality Chocolate: The flavor of your fudge will greatly depend on the quality of the white chocolate chips you use. Opt for a premium brand for the best taste.
- Chill Before Cutting: For cleaner cuts, allow the fudge to set in the refrigerator for the full duration. This will help maintain its shape when you cut it into squares.
- Customize Your Sprinkles: Feel free to use different types of sprinkles or edible glitter to match your holiday theme or personal preference for a festive touch.
- Store Properly: Keep the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate it for longer freshness. This will help maintain its texture.
Variations
Alternative Flavor Additions
You can make this fudge even more fun with flavor twists. Try adding a few drops of peppermint extract for a cool taste. You can also use lemon or orange zest for a citrusy zing. If you love spices, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. Each of these flavors can bring your fudge to life and make it unique.
Creative Toppings for Fudge
Toppings can make your fudge stand out. Aside from festive sprinkles, you can add crushed candy canes for a crunchy texture. Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts also add a nice crunch. For a chocolate lover’s twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the top. You can even use mini marshmallows or holiday-themed candies to make it extra special.
Customizing Ingredients for Dietary Needs
If you have dietary needs, you can still enjoy this fudge. Use dairy-free white chocolate chips for a vegan option. For a gluten-free treat, ensure your sugar cookies are gluten-free. You can also replace sweetened condensed milk with coconut milk for a dairy-free version. These simple swaps make this recipe fit for everyone.
Storage Info
How to Store the Fudge
To keep your sugar cookie Christmas fudge fresh, store it in an airtight container. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to stop sticking. Make sure the container is sealed tightly. This keeps moisture out and preserves flavor.
Shelf Life and Freezing Options
Your fudge can last up to two weeks at room temperature. If you want to save it longer, freeze it. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then put them in a freezer bag. This way, it can last up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating Tips for Leftovers
If your fudge is cold from the fridge or freezer, let it sit out for a few minutes. This brings it back to a nice, chewy texture. If you want to warm it, do so gently in the microwave. Heat for just a few seconds, checking often to avoid melting it too much.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of white chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate. It changes the flavor and color. The fudge becomes sweeter and richer with milk chocolate. Just follow the same steps in the recipe. The texture will stay creamy and smooth.
How do I know when the fudge is set?
You’ll know the fudge is set when it feels firm. After cooling at room temperature, put it in the fridge for at least two hours. The fudge should hold its shape when you cut it. If it feels soft or gooey, give it more time in the fridge.
What can I use if I don’t have almond extract?
If you don’t have almond extract, try using vanilla instead. It will still taste great! You can also use a bit of coconut extract for a twist. Just remember to use it sparingly, as it can be strong.
In this blog post, we explored how to make delicious fudge from start to finish. We covered the best ingredients, measuring tips, and suggested brands for great flavor. You learned step-by-step instructions on preparing, melting, and cooling fudge. I shared tips for texture and avoiding mistakes, plus ways to serve it beautifully. Finally, we discussed storage options and answered common questions.
Now you can create fudge that impresses friends and family. Enjoy every bit
