There’s something enchanting about a batch of creamy, snow-white Christmas Fudge Recipe dotted with festive M&M’s. The silky-smooth interior contrasts with a gentle crackle as it cools, and the nutty, vanilla-sweet aroma fills the kitchen with holiday cheer. In my first attempt, I rushed the melting and ended up with grainy bits; by the third test, a slower, lower-heat approach gave me that glassy finish I was after. I can’t wait to share what I discovered through multiple tries.
Why You’ll Love Christmas Fudge Recipe
- Rich white chocolate base with a glossy, firm-set texture
- Vibrant red and green M&M’s for playful color and crunch
- Simple microwave method for under 15 minutes of hands-on time
- A nod to classic holiday confections with modern candy bits
A Little Background
Last December, I set out to craft a festive fudge that felt both nostalgic and fresh. My grandmother’s old recipe box inspired me, but I swapped her chopped nuts for Christmas M&M’s. Each test batch taught me the importance of stirring consistently—especially as the chocolate hits that critical 90°F window where it glazes instead of graining.
Key Ingredients for Christmas Fudge Recipe
- White chocolate chips (16 oz): creates the creamy base; choose high-quality or couverture for gloss
- Sweetened condensed milk (14 oz): adds sweetness and helps set the fudge; avoid low-fat
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): brightens the chocolate flavor; use pure for best aroma
- Christmas M&M’s (1 cup): injects color and candy crunch; reserve extras for topping
- Salt (pinch): balances the sweetness; fine sea salt works well
How to Make Christmas Fudge Recipe
- Line an 8×8-inch pan with foil, spray lightly. This prep step cut down my cleanup time by half during testing.
- Combine white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 1 minute, stir, then heat in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, until the mixture is silky and fully melted (about 2–3 minutes total).
- Stir in vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and 1 cup of M&M’s until evenly distributed. Work quickly—once the mixture cools to under 95°F, it thickens fast.
- Spread the fudge into the prepared pan, smooth the top, then press reserved M&M’s over the surface. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours until firm.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
- Stir constantly at the end of melting to avoid scorching—this was my key discovery on attempt four.
- If the fudge grinds instead of smoothing, rewarm gently and whisk vigorously to recrystallize evenly.
- Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract for a holiday twist, or swap M&M’s for chopped candy canes.
- To double, use a 9×13 pan and extend chilling time by 1 hour; to halve, a loaf pan works fine with 1½ hours chill.
Storage & Make-Ahead Guide
Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze in layers separated by parchment for up to 3 months—thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. Always use clean utensils to prevent contamination.
Serving Suggestions
Cut into 1-inch squares and tuck into festive tins for gifting, or arrange on a platter with peppermint bark and chocolate truffles for a holiday dessert table that pops with color.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does Christmas fudge last at room temperature? Up to 5 days in an airtight container, away from heat.
- Can I freeze this fudge recipe? Yes, freeze up to 3 months in sealed layers with parchment between.
- Why did my fudge turn out grainy? Likely overheated or stirred too vigorously—slow heat and constant gentle stirring solve this.
- Can I use dark or milk chocolate instead? Swap equal weight of chips, but adjust sweetness—dark chocolate yields a richer bite.
- What pan size is best for fudge? An 8×8 pan gives 1-inch-thick pieces; for thinner fudge, use a 9×9 or loaf pan.
- How do I know when fudge is set? The glossy top will dull and feel firm to the touch after 2 hours chilled.
Final Thoughts
I adore this Christmas Fudge Recipe best when paired with a steaming mug of spiced cocoa on a frosty evening. Its creamy texture and pop of candy color always spark smiles around our holiday table. Give it a try, then share your favorite twist—or sneak a piece right now; I won’t tell!
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Instant Pot Cheesecake – luscious, creamy dessert that pairs beautifully with white chocolate fudge
- Pressure Cooker Rice Pudding – warm, spiced sweetness complements the cool, firm texture of your fudge
- Air Fryer Donuts – light, pillowy bites that add playful variety to your holiday treat spread
Christmas Fudge Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Line an 8×8-inch pan with foil and lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray.
- Combine white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a large microwave-safe bowl.
- Microwave on high for 1 minute, stir, then continue heating in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until fully melted and smooth (about 2–3 more minutes).
- Stir in vanilla extract, salt, and 1 cup of Christmas M&M’s until evenly distributed.
- Spread mixture into prepared pan, smooth the top, then press reserved M&M’s over the surface.
- Chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours until firm, then cut into squares.