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Let me share my absolute favorite holiday treat - Sugar Cookie Fudge! I discovered this recipe when looking for a way to capture that classic sugar cookie flavor without all the rolling and cutting. This creamy fudge studded with festive sprinkles has become my go-to for holiday parties. The best part? It's so simple to make you'll feel like you've discovered a sweet holiday secret!
Fun Twist on Sugar Cookies
As much as I love traditional sugar cookies during the holidays sometimes I want something different. This fudge brings all those beloved sugar cookie flavors in a deliciously creamy form. I love how versatile it is too - just change up the sprinkles to match any holiday or celebration!
Essential Ingredients
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Sweetened condensed milk is a key ingredient in this recipe, as it provides the necessary moisture and sweetness. Be sure to check the label carefully when purchasing, as it's important not to confuse it with evaporated milk, which is not suitable for this recipe.
- Sugar Cookie Mix: Two 6.25-ounce bags of dry sugar cookie mix are used to infuse the fudge with its signature sugar cookie flavor. This simplifies the recipe and helps achieve the desired taste.
- White Chocolate Chips: This recipe calls for 5 cups of high-quality white chocolate chips. These give the fudge its creamy, sweet base, making it rich and smooth.
- Sprinkles: Holiday sprinkles are used to decorate the fudge, enhancing its festive appearance. Christmas-themed sprinkles are especially popular, but feel free to use your favorite type to personalize the treat.
How to Harden Fudge
- Letting the Fudge Set
- While patience isn't my strong suit when it comes to sweets I've learned that letting the fudge set naturally at room temperature gives the best texture. But when I'm in a hurry a quick chill in the freezer works wonders just keep an eye on it!
Adjusting Pan Sizes
- Alternative Pan Sizes
- Don't worry if you don't have the exact pan size! I've made this in everything from a 9×9 to a 7×11 dish. Just avoid a 9×13 unless you're aiming for thinner pieces. The key is keeping that perfect fudgy thickness.
Storing the Fudge
- Room Temperature Storage
- In my house this fudge rarely lasts more than a couple days but when stored in an airtight container at room temperature it stays perfect for about a week. Pop it in the fridge and you'll get two full weeks of freshness!
Freezing the Fudge
- How to Freeze Fudge
- Planning ahead for the holidays? This fudge freezes beautifully! I always layer pieces with parchment paper and mark the container with the date. The fudge stays fresh for 3 months though in my experience it never lasts that long!
Recipe Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish
- Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. This will prevent the fudge from sticking and make it easier to remove after it has set.
- Mix the Ingredients
- In a medium saucepan, heat the sweetened condensed milk over medium-low heat. Once it's heated through, add the sugar cookie mix and stir until well combined. Next, add the white chocolate chips, butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is smooth and the chocolate has fully melted.
- Transfer and Top with Sprinkles
- Remove the mixture from the heat and transfer it to the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly, then top with Christmas sprinkles for a festive touch. Allow the fudge to set at room temperature for 4 hours, or chill it in the refrigerator for faster results.
Customizing Your Fudge
Over the years I've experimented with so many variations! A splash of almond extract adds an amazing depth, crushed candy canes create a festive peppermint twist. My latest discovery? Adding white chocolate chunks before setting it's absolutely divine!
Tips for Success
After countless batches I've learned the secrets to perfect fudge. The key is watching that chocolate melt - any little chunks will affect the texture. Keep the heat gentle and stir constantly. And when spreading in the pan take your time to get that even layer it makes such a difference in the final presentation!
Serving Suggestions
This fudge steals the show at holiday gatherings! I love setting it out alongside a steaming pot of coffee or cocoa. During parties I'll cut it into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on my favorite holiday platter with some fresh mint leaves for garnish. It's always the first dessert to disappear!
Nutritional Considerations
Let's be honest this is pure indulgence! While there are ways to lighten it up with sugar-free alternatives I prefer to enjoy the real deal in moderation. It's a special holiday treat after all and those moments of pure joy are worth every sweet bite!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This fudge has become such a treasured part of my holiday baking tradition. The way it combines childhood sugar cookie memories with creamy fudgy goodness is simply magical. Whether you're making it for a party gifting it to friends or treating yourself you'll love how simple yet special it is.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long does this fudge take to set?
- It takes about 4 hours at room temperature. You can speed up the process by chilling in the refrigerator or freezer for 30 minutes.
- → Can I use a different pan size?
- An 8x8 or 9x9-inch pan works best. A 7x11-inch pan is also fine, but avoid 9x13 as the fudge will be too thin.
- → How should I store this fudge?
- Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week, or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
- → Why is sweetened condensed milk important?
- This recipe specifically requires sweetened condensed milk, not evaporated milk. It provides the right consistency and sweetness for the fudge.
- → Can I use different sprinkles?
- Yes, you can customize the sprinkles to match any holiday or occasion, or omit them completely.