1. Introduction to the Recipe

This Easy Christmas Fudge Recipe delivers rich, creamy, chocolatey goodness with minimal effort and just five ingredients. It’s the kind of foolproof, crowd-pleasing dessert you can whip up last minute or prep ahead for holiday gifting. There’s no baking, no candy thermometer, and no stress—just smooth, melt-in-your-mouth fudge topped with festive sprinkles.

The base of this recipe is a simple mixture of sweetened condensed milk, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and butter. A dash of vanilla adds depth, while holiday sprinkles on top give it that unmistakable Christmas cheer. Whether you’re filling a dessert tray, assembling homemade treat boxes, or satisfying a late-night sweet tooth, this recipe works every time.

Need help choosing chocolate chips? Check out this guide to the best baking chocolates. And if you’re putting together edible gifts, this holiday gift box idea list offers great inspiration for packaging your fudge.

Quick to make and impossible to resist, Easy Christmas Fudge is a holiday classic that belongs in every baker’s playbook.

2. Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

Easy Christmas Fudge Recipe

Author: Sarah White

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Description

This Easy Christmas Fudge Recipe uses just 5 ingredients and no baking. Quick, creamy, festive, and perfect for gifting or parties.

Ingredients

Scale

1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup butter (salted or unsalted)

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2–3 tablespoons Christmas sprinkles

Instructions

Prep the pan: Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

Melt the fudge base: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and butter. Stir constantly until melted and smooth.
Add vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Pour and spread: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared dish and use a spatula to spread evenly into the corners.

Decorate: Immediately top with Christmas sprinkles, gently pressing them into the surface so they stick.
Chill to set: Refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours or until firm. Once set, lift the fudge out using the parchment and cut into squares.

Notes

Use high-quality chocolate chips for best results. Cheap brands can lead to greasy or gritty fudge.

For softer fudge, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before slicing.

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Want cleaner slices? Warm a sharp knife under hot water and wipe it dry between cuts.

You can freeze this fudge for up to 3 months—wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag.

3. Advanced Techniques

Add Swirls or Layers

For a fancy twist, swirl in white chocolate, peanut butter, or crushed peppermint. Pour half of the fudge, add a swirl layer, then top with the remaining fudge. Use a skewer or butter knife to swirl it through for a marbled effect that looks bakery-made.

Use a Double Boiler for Ultra-Smooth Texture

Instead of melting your ingredients directly in a saucepan, use a double boiler setup to prevent scorching. Place a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water and stir gently. This method ensures even, silky melting—perfect for gift-worthy results.

Flavor the Base

Add orange zest, almond extract, peppermint oil, or a pinch of cinnamon to the base mixture before pouring. A small change in flavoring can turn one fudge recipe into several unique holiday treats.

Top with More than Sprinkles

Go beyond sprinkles with chopped nuts, mini marshmallows, crushed candy canes, or festive M&M’s. Press them in gently before chilling to create a personalized topping mix that adds crunch and color.

Shape with Silicone Molds

For party favors or themed gifts, pour the fudge into silicone holiday molds instead of a square pan. Stars, trees, and snowflakes all work beautifully and make your fudge look store-bought.

4. Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

Refrigerator Storage

Store your fudge in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. Stack pieces with parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.

Freezer Storage

Fudge freezes incredibly well. Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag or container. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for 1–2 hours before serving.

Avoid Moisture

Moisture is the enemy of good fudge—it can cause sugar bloom or sticky texture. Always keep your container sealed tight and avoid humidity when storing.

Re-cutting Fudge Cleanly

If your fudge softens in storage and you want neater edges, chill it briefly, then cut using a warm, dry knife. This helps maintain clean edges and perfect presentation.

Gift-Wrapping Tips

For gifting, wrap individual squares in parchment paper and tie with string, or stack a few in mini bakery boxes. Add a holiday tag and you’ve got an elegant, edible gift ready to go.

5. Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

Dairy-Free Version

Use dairy-free chocolate chips and substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based margarine. Sweetened condensed coconut milk works well and keeps the fudge creamy.

Vegan Option

Pair the dairy-free adjustments with vegan sprinkles and vanilla extract to make the entire recipe 100% plant-based.

Nut-Free Recipe

This recipe is naturally nut-free, but double-check chocolate chip and sprinkle packaging for potential cross-contamination warnings.

Low-Sugar Alternative

Use sugar-free chocolate chips and a low-carb sweetened condensed milk alternative. Keep in mind that texture may be slightly softer, and sweeteners like erythritol can affect the consistency.

Gluten-Free Safe

The base recipe is gluten-free, but always verify ingredient labels—especially on sprinkles and flavorings—to ensure they’re certified gluten-free.

6. FAQs About the Recipe

Why isn’t my fudge setting properly?

If the fudge is too soft, it might not have chilled long enough. Let it set for at least 3 hours, or overnight for best firmness. Ensure your ratios are correct and avoid overheated chocolate, which can affect texture.

Can I use milk or dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Yes. Milk chocolate will yield a sweeter fudge, while dark chocolate gives it a richer, slightly more bitter taste. Just stick to the same quantity and adjust based on your preference.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Double all the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. The fudge may take slightly longer to chill but will slice just as well.

Do I have to use butter?

Butter helps create a silky texture, but you can substitute with coconut oil or leave it out entirely. The texture may be slightly firmer without it.

How far ahead can I make this fudge?

You can make it up to 2 weeks in advance and store in the fridge. For even longer storage, freeze it and thaw when ready to serve or gift.

7. Conclusion & Final Thoughts

This Easy Christmas Fudge Recipe is the ultimate holiday win—simple, quick, and nearly impossible to mess up. It takes just minutes to make, sets beautifully, and offers a creamy, chocolatey texture that everyone loves. With endless ways to customize it and no baking required, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to year after year.

Whether you’re making treat bags for coworkers, filling a dessert tray, or whipping up something sweet for Santa, this fudge fits the bill. The festive sprinkles add just the right holiday flair, and the melt-in-your-mouth bite delivers pure seasonal comfort.

So stock up on chocolate chips and grab that can of sweetened condensed milk—because this no-fuss fudge is about to become your new holiday tradition.