My creamy holiday eggnog fudge brings all the warm Christmas flavors you love into a delicious bite sized treat. I spent years perfecting this recipe and now it takes just 15 minutes to whip up. Trust me it's going to become your new holiday favorite for sharing with family or gifting to friends.
Why This Fudge Makes Me Smile
Every time I make this fudge it reminds me of cozy winter nights. The smooth richness of eggnog mixed with hints of nutmeg creates pure magic in every bite. My family begs for this recipe and I love how simple it is to make with just a few basic ingredients.
What You Need From Your Kitchen
- Eggnog: ½ cup, creamy and full-flavored, forms the base of the fudge.
- White Chocolate Chips: 2 cups, for a smooth, rich texture.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: 1 can (14 ounces), adds creaminess and sweetness.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons, for a luscious, velvety finish.
- Nutmeg: 1 teaspoon freshly grated, for that signature eggnog flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon, enhances the overall flavor.
Lets Make Some Fudge
- Prepare the Pan
- Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Melt the Ingredients
- In a medium saucepan, combine ½ cup eggnog, 2 cups white chocolate chips, 1 can sweetened condensed milk, and 2 tablespoons butter. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth.
- Add Flavoring
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon nutmeg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix well to combine.
- Pour and Set
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Sprinkle additional nutmeg on top for decoration.
- Chill
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm. Once set, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper and cut into squares.
My Secret Tips
I learned through lots of trial and error that good quality white chocolate makes all the difference. Keep stirring while everything melts together. Sometimes I sprinkle crushed candy canes on top before it sets for extra Christmas cheer.
How to Serve Your Fudge
Put these sweet bites on your holiday dessert table next to cookies and brownies. My family loves them with coffee after dinner or with hot chocolate by the fireplace. Sometimes I sneak a piece with my morning coffee too.
Storage and Gift Ideas
Pop your fudge in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to two weeks. When I give these as gifts I wrap pieces in pretty parchment paper or pack them in cute holiday tins. Everyone loves getting these sweet treats.
Mix It Up
Sometimes I toss in chopped pecans or dried cranberries for extra texture. Last Christmas I added a splash of bourbon for the grownups it was a huge hit at our neighborhood party.
Freezer Tips
I love making these early for the holidays. Just wrap them tight in plastic wrap pop them in a container and freeze for up to 3 months. Let them thaw overnight in the fridge when you need them.
A Sweet Holiday Tradition
This fudge brings back so many memories of holiday baking with my mom. Now my kids help me make it every December. The smell of nutmeg and eggnog fills our kitchen with pure Christmas magic.
Make Ahead Magic
When the holidays get busy I love having this recipe up my sleeve. I make a big batch on a quiet Sunday afternoon and store it in the fridge. It stays perfect for last minute guests or when I need a quick gift for someone special.
Perfect Pairings
Last winter I discovered this fudge tastes amazing with spiced chai tea. Try it with mulled apple cider too. When we have friends over I serve it with holiday cocktails it disappears in minutes.
Pretty it Up
I love making my fudge look extra special with a drizzle of melted white chocolate. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of edible glitter. These little touches make such a difference when I'm giving it as gifts or serving it at parties.
Sweet but Not Too Sweet
If you're like my sister who doesn't love super sweet treats cut back on the white chocolate a bit. I sometimes add a tiny pinch of salt too. It keeps the fudge creamy but balances out the sweetness just right.
No Eggnog No Problem
Running low on eggnog? Use heavy cream with extra nutmeg instead. For my dairy free friends I use coconut milk and dairy free white chocolate. The fudge turns out just as creamy and delicious.
Fun Holiday Shapes
My kids love when I use holiday cookie cutters to make fun shapes. Stars and trees are their favorites. You can even use silicone molds for fancy designs. It makes the fudge extra special for Christmas parties.
Quick Fixes
Sometimes fudge can be tricky but don't worry. If it's not setting right just give it an extra hour in the fridge. Need it firmer? Add a bit more white chocolate. Softer? A splash more eggnog does the trick.
Party Perfect
This fudge steals the show at holiday gatherings. I arrange it on my dessert board with Christmas cookies fresh fruit and other treats. The creamy white squares look so pretty next to red and green decorations.
Get the Kids Involved
Making this fudge has become a fun family activity in our house. My little ones love sprinkling toppings on before it sets. We use holiday sprinkles mini marshmallows and crushed candy canes. Such precious kitchen memories.
Spread the Joy
Nothing makes me happier than sharing these sweet treats. I pack them in festive boxes with pretty ribbons for teachers neighbors and friends. It's my way of sending a little homemade love during the holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why use a candy thermometer?
Reaching exactly 234°F (soft ball stage) ensures proper fudge texture. Too hot or cold will affect setting.
- → Can I use homemade eggnog?
Store-bought works best as it's more consistent. Homemade may affect setting due to varying fat content.
- → Why line pan with foil?
Foil makes it easy to lift and remove fudge from pan once set. Ensure it's well-greased to prevent sticking.
- → How should I store this fudge?
Store in airtight container at room temperature up to 1 week or refrigerate up to 2 weeks.
- → Can I freeze this fudge?
Yes, wrap well and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw in refrigerator before serving.