Oh my goodness, do I have a treat for you today! If you’re like me and can’t resist the sweet, rich decadence of fudge, then I think you’re really going to fall in love with this Hot Chocolate Fudge recipe. It’s like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a chilly winter day, except it’s made of chocolate! Plus, this fudge brings back delightful memories of my childhood – I remember standing by the stove, practically bouncing on my toes, waiting for it to cool. The tantalizing aroma filled the kitchen while I plotted my sweet indulgence! Trust me, it’s downright irresistible.
This fudge isn’t just delicious; it’s incredibly easy to whip up. With just a handful of ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a rich chocolatey treat that will have everyone begging for seconds. Not only is it perfect for sharing during the holidays (bonus points for gifting!), but it also serves as a sweet pick-me-up any day of the year. Now, let’s dive into what you’ll need to make this dreamy fudge!
What’s in Hot Chocolate Fudge?
Semisweet Chocolate Chips: The star of the show! These chips pack a rich chocolate flavor that gives our fudge its deep, delightful sweetness. I often use Nestlé Toll House because they melt beautifully, but feel free to choose your favorite brand!
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This creamy delight adds sweetness and a luscious texture that helps everything come together perfectly. It’s essential for achieving the fudge’s signature gooeyness.
Unsalted Butter: Just a touch of rich butter gives this fudge its smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Make sure to use unsalted so we can control the saltiness!
Vanilla Extract: A splash of good quality vanilla elevates the flavor significantly, making this fudge taste as velvety as a cloud. I always recommend using pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
Mini Marshmallows: What’s hot chocolate without marshmallows? These little beauties add a wonderful chewy texture and nod to the classic hot cocoa we all adore.
Cocoa Powder: A touch of cocoa powder intensifies the chocolate flavor, giving a hint of that classic hot chocolate taste – rich and warm!
White Chocolate Chips: For drizzling on top! They not only add a contrasting sweetness but also make this fudge look irresistibly pretty.
Pinch of Salt: Just a sprinkle of salt helps balance the sweetness and enhance the overall flavor. You might even be surprised how much it brings out the chocolate!
Is Hot Chocolate Fudge Good for You?
Now, let’s get a little real here. While this fudge is definitely on the indulgent side (we’re talking sugar and chocolate bliss), it’s all about balance. The main ingredients like **semisweet chocolate chips** and **sweetened condensed milk** are deliciously rich and intensely sweet. It’s a treat, which means moderation is key. The addition of **mini marshmallows** and **cocoa powder** adds a fun, playful element, but they also add a bit more sugar into the mix.
On the bright side, this fudge brings joy and satisfaction – and let’s be honest, that’s good for the soul, right? So why not enjoy a square or two alongside your favorite beverage? It’s all about those little moments of joy!
Ingredients
– 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
– 1/4 cup cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (for drizzling)
– Pinch of salt
This recipe yields about 16 squares of fudgy goodness – perfect for sharing…or not!
How to Make Hot Chocolate Fudge?
1. Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to make it easier to lift out once it’s set.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the **semisweet chocolate chips**, **sweetened condensed milk**, **unsalted butter**, and a pinch of **salt** over medium heat. Stir frequently until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Remove the saucepan from heat and mix in the **vanilla extract** and **cocoa powder** until everything is well combined.
4. Gently fold in the **mini marshmallows**, being careful not to crush them – we want those chewy little bits intact!
5. Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
6. Allow the fudge to set at room temperature for about 2 hours, or pop it in the refrigerator for about 1 hour for quicker results.
7. While that’s chilling, melt the **white chocolate chips** in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Drizzle it over the set fudge for that gorgeous white chocolate touch.
8. Once fully set, lift it out using the overhanging parchment paper and cut into squares.
Delicious Fudge Variations!
If you’re feeling experimental, try swapping **mini marshmallows** with crushed candy canes for a minty touch or add a splash of your favorite liqueur like Irish cream for a grown-up version! You can also toss in some nuts for a little crunch, or drizzle a bit of caramel on top for a sweet surprise. Pairing with a hot cup of cocoa? That’s a winning cozy combo!
Oh, my friend, I truly hope you give this recipe a try! Making this Hot Chocolate Fudge is not just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s about creating warm memories and treating yourself (or someone special). And I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! So don’t hesitate to share your results or any fun twists you make. Happy cooking!
