If you’re looking for a festive treat that’s creamy, rich, and wonderfully nostalgic, this Eggnog Fudge Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine the lusciousness of silky white chocolate wonderfully spiced with nutmeg, combined with the classic holiday warmth of eggnog and the delightful chew of mini marshmallows. It’s a sweet that captures everything cozy about the season and makes for an irresistible gift or dessert that’s sure to become a holiday favorite in your home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple but essential ingredients is the first step toward making this Eggnog Fudge Recipe shine. Each component plays a special role, delivering the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and that classic holiday feel.
- Salted butter: Adds richness and helps create the smooth, creamy base of the fudge.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens and gives the fudge its classic texture.
- Eggnog: Infuses the fudge with its signature holiday spice and creamy flavor.
- Mini marshmallows: Melt into a velvety texture and add a hint of chewiness.
- White chocolate chips: Bring sweetness and a luscious melt that binds it all together.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its warm, inviting aroma.
- Ground nutmeg: Provides that traditional seasonal spice that makes eggnog so special.
How to Make Eggnog Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving extra hanging over the edges. This little trick makes it super easy to lift the fudge out later. Don’t forget to lightly grease the parchment so the fudge releases effortlessly.
Step 2: Combine Butter, Sugar, and Eggnog
In a medium saucepan, melt the salted butter and then stir in the sugar and eggnog. Bring everything to a gentle boil over medium heat while stirring often. This step is where the magic starts, as the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens.
Step 3: Cook the Mixture
Turn the heat down to low and let your mixture cook for 10 minutes, stirring constantly. Patience here ensures the sugar reaches the perfect stage for fudge and that smooth texture everyone loves.
Step 4: Melt in the Marshmallows
Remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in the mini marshmallows. The warmth will melt them down, adding beautiful creaminess and a touch of fluff to the base.
Step 5: Add White Chocolate and Spices
Next, fold in the white chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and ground nutmeg. Stir thoroughly until everything melts together into a luscious, smooth mixture. This blend of flavors truly captures the essence of the season.
Step 6: Pour and Smooth
Pour your rich, creamy fudge mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula for an even finish. This step helps the fudge set beautifully and look inviting.
Step 7: Cool and Chill
Let the fudge cool at room temperature for about an hour, then pop it into the refrigerator for at least three hours. Chilling solidifies the fudge to the perfect sliceable texture.
Step 8: Slice and Enjoy
Once your Eggnog Fudge Recipe is fully chilled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift it out of the pan, then slice into 36 delightful squares. Now it’s ready to share or savor all by yourself!
How to Serve Eggnog Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes elevate your Eggnog Fudge Recipe beautifully. Try sprinkling with a dash of extra ground nutmeg or cinnamon. For a festive touch, finely chopped toasted pecans or a few festive red and green sprinkles can add color and crunch.
Side Dishes
This fudge pairs perfectly with a warm cup of spiced coffee, chai tea, or even a glass of eggnog for a double holiday treat. It also complements fruit-forward desserts like cranberry sauce or apple pie by offering a creamy, sweet contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can make your fudge feel even more special. Consider wrapping individual squares in festive parchment or clear cellophane tied with a ribbon for gift-giving. Alternatively, arrange the fudge squares on a holiday-themed tray alongside colorful candies or nuts for a cheerful dessert spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your first round, keep the remaining Eggnog Fudge Recipe airtight in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for up to two weeks. This maintains the texture and keeps it fresh without drying out.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze pieces of the fudge to extend its life. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When wrapped well, the fudge can stay delicious for up to three months.
Reheating
Fudge is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if you find it too firm after refrigeration or freezing, let pieces sit out for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can alter the texture and melt the fudge unevenly.
FAQs
Can I use homemade eggnog in this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade eggnog can add an even richer, more personal touch to your Eggnog Fudge Recipe. Just make sure it’s well-chilled and stirred before using, as the flavors will deeply infuse the fudge.
Is it possible to make this fudge dairy-free?
You can experiment with dairy-free butter and white chocolate alternatives, but keep in mind the texture and flavor might shift a bit. Using dairy-free eggnog or a similar spiced plant-based milk can help maintain the classic flavor profile.
How do I know when the fudge mixture is cooked enough?
Cooking for 10 minutes on low heat, stirring constantly, allows the sugar to properly dissolve and create the right consistency. You’ll notice the mixture thickening and bubbling gently—this is your cue to move forward.
Can I add other spices or flavorings?
Definitely! While nutmeg is the star here, a pinch of cinnamon, ginger, or even a splash of rum extract can complement the eggnog flavor and make the fudge uniquely yours.
What’s the best way to cut the fudge into perfect squares?
Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry before slicing to achieve smooth, clean cuts. This technique helps prevent the fudge from cracking or sticking as you slice those perfect bite-sized pieces.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about homemade holiday treats, and this Eggnog Fudge Recipe brings that joy in every creamy, spiced bite. Whether you’re making it for friends, family, or just indulging yourself, it’s a simple recipe that shines with festive flavor and heartwarming charm. Don’t wait—whip up a batch and let this rich, sweet fudge become your new holiday tradition!
Print
Eggnog Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 36 pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Eggnog Fudge recipe offers a rich and creamy holiday treat combining the classic flavors of eggnog, white chocolate, and warm spices. Perfect for festive gatherings, this fudge is easy to prepare with a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Ingredients
Fudge Ingredients
- 0.5 cup salted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 0.75 cup eggnog
- 1.5 cups mini marshmallows
- 3 cups white chocolate chips
- 1.5 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Combine ingredients and heat: In a medium saucepan, combine the salted butter, granulated sugar, and eggnog. Place over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to dissolve the sugar.
- Cook the fudge base: Reduce the heat to low and continue to cook the mixture for 10 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent scorching and to thicken the mixture.
- Add marshmallows: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the mini marshmallows until they are completely melted and incorporated, creating a smooth base.
- Incorporate chocolate and flavorings: Add the white chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and ground nutmeg to the mixture. Stir thoroughly until the fudge is smooth and well combined.
- Pour into the pan: Transfer the fudge mixture to the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth the surface evenly.
- Cool the fudge: Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for 1 hour to set a bit before refrigerating.
- Refrigerate and set: Place the fudge in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours until fully set and firm.
- Serve: Remove the fudge using the parchment overhang and cut into 36 small squares. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Ensure constant stirring during the cooking process to prevent the fudge from burning or sticking to the pan.
- Use full-fat eggnog for the creamiest texture.
- For a spiked version, consider adding a tablespoon of bourbon or rum after removing from heat, if desired.
- You can store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Cutting the fudge while slightly chilled makes slicing easier and cleaner.
