Sugar Cookie Christmas Fudge combines the buttery sweetness of sugar cookies with the creamy decadence of fudge. This easy 5-ingredient recipe is perfect for holiday parties, cookie trays, or gifting, offering a festive and delicious treat everyone will adore.
Why You'll Love This Fudge
This sugar cookie-flavored fudge is simple to make, bursting with holiday flavor, and topped with colorful sprinkles for a festive touch. It's perfect for spreading holiday cheer at parties, in gift baskets, or as a special treat for your family.
Essential Ingredients For Success
- White Chocolate Chips: 24 ounces high-quality chips, room temperature 65-70°F (18-21°C), with a smooth, glossy appearance and no signs of blooming. Premium brands recommended for best melting properties.
- Sugar Cookie Mix: 17.5 ounces dry mix, stored in a cool, dry place below 75°F (24°C). Ensure package is sealed with no clumps or moisture exposure.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: 14 ounces (1 standard can), room temperature, well-shaken before use. Check expiration date and ensure can has no dents or damage.
- Butter: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature 65-70°F (18-21°C), cut into ½-inch cubes for even melting.
- Christmas Sprinkles: ½ cup festive sprinkles, stored below 75°F (24°C) to prevent color bleeding. Choose jimmies or nonpareils that won't dissolve during setting.
Step By Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Workspace
- Line 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving 2-inch overhang. Spray with cooking spray at 70°F (21°C). Gather all ingredients and equipment before starting.
- Create Base Mixture
- Heat sweetened condensed milk in heavy-bottom pot over medium-low heat (300°F/149°C) until it reaches 110°F (43°C). Add white chocolate chips and butter, stirring constantly with silicone spatula until completely melted and smooth at 115°F (46°C).
- Incorporate Cookie Mix
- Remove from heat. Gradually stir in sugar cookie mix until fully incorporated with no dry spots. Mixture should be thick but spreadable at 110-115°F (43-46°C). Fold in ¼ cup sprinkles until just combined.
- Set and Decorate
- Pour into prepared pan within 5 minutes of mixing. Smooth top with offset spatula. Immediately top with remaining sprinkles. Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) for minimum 4 hours or until completely firm when pressed.
Storage Tips
Store Christmas fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For extended storage, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks. Perfect for making ahead of holiday gatherings or gifts.
Why This Recipe Shines
This Sugar Cookie Christmas Fudge is a unique and festive twist on classic holiday treats. Its vibrant sprinkles, creamy texture, and simple preparation make it a standout addition to any holiday celebration or dessert table.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why do I need to heat-treat the cookie mix?
Raw flour in cookie mix needs heating to 165°F to kill harmful bacteria. This quick safety step takes just a few minutes in the microwave or oven.
- → Can I use different types of sprinkles?
Yes, you can use any sprinkles you like. Rainbow sprinkles work great for birthdays, while pastel colors are perfect for Easter or spring celebrations.
- → How long does this fudge stay fresh?
The fudge keeps well for up to one week in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to three weeks.
- → Can I make this fudge without cookie mix?
While cookie mix gives this fudge its signature flavor, you could substitute with powdered sugar and vanilla extract, though the taste will be different.
- → Why isn't my fudge setting properly?
Make sure to use the correct amounts of ingredients and allow full cooling time. The fudge needs at least 2 hours in the fridge to set completely.