Hot Chocolate Fudge Recipe – Cozy Winter Treat
Cozy Evenings and the Ultimate Hot Chocolate Fudge Recipe – There’s something about the winter chill that sends me into full-on hibernation mode.
Hot Chocolate Fudge
Ingredients
- 2 cups Chocolate Chips
- 2 tbs Heavy Cream
- 1 – 14-ounce can Condensed Milk
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 1-⅓ cups White Chocolate Chips
- 1-½ cups Miniature Marshmallows
Instructions
- Line an 8-inch-square baking pan with wax paper or foil, and coat with non-stick spray.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips, heavy cream and half of the sweetened condensed milk. Microwave the dark chocolate mixture in 20-second intervals, stirring in between each interval, until the chocolate is melted.
- Add the vanilla extract to the dark chocolate mixture and stir well until smooth.
- Transfer the dark chocolate mixture into the prepared pan and spread into an even layer.
- In a separate bowl, combine the white chocolate chips with the remaining half of the sweetened condensed milk. Microwave the white chocolate mixture in 20-second intervals, stirring in between each interval, until the chocolate is melted.
- Evenly spread the white chocolate mixture on top of dark chocolate layer.
- Top the chocolate layers with the Mallow Bits or miniature marshmallows, and gently press them down.
- Refrigerate for 4 hours, or until set.
- Remove the fudge and wax paper from the pan. Carefully peel all of the wax paper from the fudge.
- Cut the fudge into bite-sized pieces and serve.
Nutrition
You know the one—where you’re curled up in your favorite oversized sweater, a blanket draped over your legs, and the only thing that could possibly lure you out of your cozy cocoon is the promise of something warm and indulgent.
This year, my winter ritual has been perfected with the addition of a new treat: Hot Chocolate Fudge. It all started on a particularly frosty evening when my kids, tired of the usual hot cocoa, begged for something different.
I remembered a recipe I’d seen for Hot Chocolate Fudge and thought, why not?
Little did I know, this would become our family’s new winter staple. The first batch was a bit of a mess, with chocolate splatters and marshmallows sticking to everything, but the joy on their faces as they bit into the rich, creamy fudge made it all worth it.
Now, it’s not just a treat; it’s a tradition that warms us from the inside out.
Hot Chocolate Fudge, as delightful as it sounds, has roots in the classic American love affair with chocolate. It’s a dessert that combines the comforting warmth of hot chocolate with the indulgent richness of fudge.
The idea of blending these two beloved treats likely emerged from the desire to create a dessert that could be enjoyed in the colder months, offering a sense of warmth and nostalgia.
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While the exact origins are hard to pin down, it’s easy to see why this dessert has become a favorite. It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence, making it a go-to for family gatherings or a quiet night in.
The Hot Chocolate Fudge Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious treat, you should totally check out this awesome hot chocolate fudge recipe below:
Ingredients
- 2 cups dark chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ⅓ cups white chocolate chips
- 1 ½ cups miniature marshmallows or Mallow Bits
Hot Chocolate Fudge Recipe: Instructions
Here’s a simple recipe for hot chocolate fudge that you can follow at home. It’s got all the instructions you need to make this tasty treat:
Preparation
Start by lining an 8-inch-square baking pan with wax paper or foil. Make sure to coat it with non-stick spray to prevent the fudge from sticking.
This step is crucial because, trust me, you don’t want to be chipping away at your pan later. I learned this the hard way on my first attempt, and let’s just say it involved a lot of scraping and a few choice words.
Melting the Dark Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips, heavy cream, and half of the sweetened condensed milk. Microwave this mixture in 20-second intervals, stirring in between each interval.
This method ensures that the chocolate melts evenly without burning. It’s a bit tedious, but patience here pays off with a smooth, glossy finish.
Once the chocolate is fully melted, stir in the vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Creating the Dark Chocolate Layer
Transfer the dark chocolate mixture into the prepared pan and spread it into an even layer. This is where a spatula becomes your best friend.
I find that using a silicone spatula helps to get a nice, smooth surface without too much effort.
If you’re like me and your kitchen skills are more about enthusiasm than precision, don’t worry if it’s not perfect. It’ll still taste amazing.
Melting the White Chocolate
In a separate bowl, combine the white chocolate chips with the remaining half of the sweetened condensed milk.
Microwave this mixture in 20-second intervals, stirring in between each interval, until the chocolate is melted.
The white chocolate can be a bit trickier to work with because it can seize up if overheated, so keep a close eye on it and stir frequently.
Creating the White Chocolate Layer
Evenly spread the white chocolate mixture on top of the dark chocolate layer. This creates a beautiful contrast and adds a delightful sweetness to the fudge.
Again, use your spatula to smooth it out as best you can. It doesn’t have to be perfect; the charm of homemade fudge is in its rustic appeal.
Adding the Marshmallows
Top the chocolate layers with the miniature marshmallows or Mallow Bits, and gently press them down into the fudge. This step adds a fun texture and a nod to the hot chocolate theme.
My kids love this part because they get to help press the marshmallows in, making it a fun family activity.
Setting the Fudge
Refrigerate the fudge for at least 4 hours, or until it’s set. This is the hardest part—waiting. But trust me, it’s worth it. Once set, remove the fudge and wax paper from the pan.
Carefully peel all of the wax paper from the fudge. This can be a bit tricky, but take your time, and it’ll come off cleanly.
Cutting and Serving
Cut the fudge into bite-sized pieces and serve. I like to use a sharp knife and a gentle sawing motion to get clean cuts.
If the fudge is too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly. Serve it up and watch the smiles spread across the faces of your loved ones.
Helpful Tips for Making Hot Chocolate Fudge
Want to make some amazing hot chocolate fudge? Here are some super helpful tips to get you started:
Tip 1: Use Quality Chocolate
The quality of your chocolate chips will significantly impact the flavor of your Hot Chocolate Fudge.
I’ve tried this recipe with both high-end and store-brand chocolate, and while both work, the richer flavor of quality chocolate really shines through. It’s worth the splurge for those special occasions.
Tip 2: Microwave with Care
Microwaving chocolate can be a bit of a gamble, but using short intervals and stirring frequently helps prevent burning.
If you’re nervous about using the microwave, you can also melt the chocolate using a double boiler on the stove. It’s a bit more work, but it gives you more control over the temperature.
Tip 3: Experiment with Toppings
While miniature marshmallows are a classic choice, don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings.
Crushed peppermint candies, chopped nuts, or even a drizzle of caramel can add a fun twist to your Hot Chocolate Fudge. My kids love it when I surprise them with different toppings, turning each batch into a new adventure.
Tip 4: Storage
Hot Chocolate Fudge can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to three months.
Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Tip 5: Cutting the Fudge
To get clean cuts, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry between each cut.
This helps the knife glide through the fudge without sticking. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in presentation.
Variations on Hot Chocolate Fudge
Different ways to make hot chocolate fudge:
Variation 1: Peppermint Hot Chocolate Fudge
Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the dark chocolate mixture for a refreshing twist. You can also sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top for an extra festive touch.
This variation is perfect for the holiday season and adds a cool contrast to the rich chocolate.
Variation 2: Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate Fudge
Swirl in some salted caramel sauce between the dark and white chocolate layers. The saltiness of the caramel complements the sweetness of the chocolate beautifully. It’s a sophisticated twist that’s sure to impress your guests.
Variation 3: Nutty Hot Chocolate Fudge
Mix in some chopped nuts, like almonds or hazelnuts, into the white chocolate layer for added texture and flavor. This variation adds a delightful crunch and pairs well with the creamy fudge.
Variation 4: Espresso Hot Chocolate Fudge
Add a tablespoon of instant espresso powder to the dark chocolate mixture for a mocha-flavored fudge. This variation is perfect for coffee lovers and adds a sophisticated depth to the chocolate.
Wrapping Up on Hot Chocolate Fudge Recipe
Making Hot Chocolate Fudge has become more than just a recipe for me; it’s a way to bring warmth and joy into our home during the colder months.
The process, from melting the chocolate to waiting impatiently for it to set, is filled with anticipation and excitement.
And when you finally get to taste that first bite, with its rich, creamy texture and the playful pop of marshmallows, it’s like a hug for your taste buds.
Sure, it might not always turn out perfectly, and you might end up with a few chocolate smudges on your kitchen counter, but that’s all part of the charm.
So, give this Hot Chocolate Fudge recipe a try, embrace the imperfections, and enjoy the delicious results with your loved ones.
