What if you could capture the nostalgic, buttery flavor of a classic Christmas sugar cookie and transform it into a decadent, melt-in-your-mouth fudge,all without turning on your oven? It sounds like holiday magic, but it’s surprisingly simple. This recipe for Christmas Sugar Cookie Fudge is the ultimate no-bake dessert that will stun your guests and become your new go-to festive treat. It perfectly blends two beloved holiday classics into one easy, unforgettable confection.
This easy sugar cookie fudge is perfect for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or as a homemade gift. The secret lies in using a dry sugar cookie mix, which infuses the entire batch with that authentic, straight-from-the-oven cookie taste. Get ready to create a dessert that looks as festive as it tastes, adorned with colorful sprinkles that scream holiday cheer.
Ingredients List
The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. You only need a handful of ingredients to create this festive masterpiece. We’ve chosen each one to maximize flavor and create that perfect, creamy texture. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some helpful substitution ideas.
- White Chocolate Chips: 2 cups (12 oz). Use high-quality chips like Ghirardelli or Guittard for the best melting and creamiest flavor. Avoid “baking melts” which can have a waxy texture.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: One 14 oz can. This is the key to a smooth, no-fail fudge. Do not substitute with evaporated milk, as it will not set correctly.
- Unsalted Butter: 2 tablespoons. This adds richness and a silky mouthfeel. If you only have salted butter, you can use it, but the fudge will have a slightly salty note.
- Dry Sugar Cookie Mix: 1 ½ cups. Any standard brand like Betty Crocker or Pillsbury works perfectly. This is our magic ingredient for that authentic cookie flavor!
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon. Pure vanilla extract provides the best flavor, but imitation vanilla works in a pinch. For a twist, try ½ teaspoon of almond extract.
- Christmas Sprinkles: ½ cup, divided. Use a mix of jimmies, nonpareils, or any festive shapes you love. We’ll use some in the fudge and some on top for decoration.
Timing
One of the most appealing aspects of this Christmas sugar cookie fudge recipe is how quickly it comes together. Unlike traditional cookies that require chilling, rolling, and baking, this is a simple melt-and-mix affair. Your active time is minimal, leaving more time for other holiday preparations.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Chilling Time: 2-4 hours
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes
Your total hands-on time is just 15 minutes. Data from popular recipe sites shows the average holiday cookie recipe takes over 60 minutes of active time. This no-bake fudge recipe cuts that effort by over 75%, making it a highly efficient choice for busy holiday schedules.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a flawless batch of holiday fudge. We’ve included pro tips to ensure your fudge turns out perfectly creamy and delicious every single time. This is where the magic happens!
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
First, prepare your setting pan. Line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides. This overhang will act as “handles,” allowing you to easily lift the entire block of fudge out of the pan for clean, easy cutting later. Do not skip this step!
Step 2: Melt the Fudge Base
In a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Place the pan over low heat, stirring constantly with a rubber spatula until the mixture is completely melted and smooth. It is crucial to use low heat to prevent the chocolate from seizing or burning, which would result in a grainy texture.
Step 3: Incorporate the Cookie Flavor
Once the base is smooth, remove the saucepan from the heat immediately. Add the dry sugar cookie mix and the vanilla extract. Stir vigorously until the cookie mix is fully incorporated and no dry streaks remain. The mixture will thicken quickly, so work fast to ensure everything is well combined for that perfect Christmas Sugar Cookie Fudge consistency.
Step 4: Add the Festive Sprinkles
Gently fold in ¼ cup of the Christmas sprinkles. Be careful not to overmix at this stage, or the colors from the sprinkles might bleed and muddy the bright white color of the fudge. A few gentle folds are all you need to distribute them evenly throughout the mixture.
Step 5: Pour, Decorate, and Chill
Quickly pour the fudge mixture into your prepared 8×8 inch pan. Use your spatula to spread it into an even layer, pushing it into the corners. Immediately top the fudge with the remaining ¼ cup of sprinkles, gently pressing them into the surface so they adhere. Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill for at least 2-4 hours, or until completely firm.
Step 6: Cut and Serve
Once the fudge is firm, use the parchment paper handles to lift it out of the pan and onto a cutting board. Use a large, sharp knife to cut the fudge into small 1-inch squares. For extra-clean cuts, you can run the knife under hot water and wipe it dry between each slice. Your delicious holiday treat is now ready to serve!
Nutritional Information
While this is certainly an indulgent holiday treat, it’s helpful to understand its nutritional profile. The following information is an estimate based on a batch cut into 64 one-inch squares. The exact values will vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients you use.
Per 1-inch square serving (approximate):
- Calories: 95 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Sugar: 10g
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Protein: 1g
This Christmas Sugar Cookie Fudge is rich and sweet, so a small piece is often enough to satisfy a craving. It’s a perfect small bite to add to a larger dessert platter or to enjoy with a cup of unsweetened coffee or tea.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Want to enjoy this festive treat with a few healthier adjustments? It’s easy to make swaps that reduce sugar and fat without sacrificing that signature sugar cookie flavor. Here are a few ideas:
- Lower the Sugar: Look for sugar-free white chocolate chips and a keto-friendly or low-carb sugar cookie mix. You can also make your own low-sugar sweetened condensed milk using a milk alternative and a powdered sweetener like erythritol.
- Go Gluten-Free: This recipe is easily adaptable for a gluten-free diet. Simply substitute the standard sugar cookie mix with your favorite gluten-free sugar cookie mix. Brands like King Arthur or Bob’s Red Mill offer excellent options.
- Boost the Protein: To add a bit of nutritional substance, you can stir in 1-2 tablespoons of unflavored or vanilla-flavored collagen peptides along with the dry cookie mix. It will dissolve seamlessly and won’t affect the final texture.
Name: Yumi Hwag
Byline: Founder & Recipe Developer, Yumimeals
Bio : Yumi tests weeknight-friendly air fryer, slow cooker, and BBQ recipes in a small home kitchen. She focuses on simple steps, real-family testing, and clear food-safety guidance. Contact: [email protected]