Easy Sugar Cookie Christmas Fudge Recipe

The holiday season is my favorite time of year to break out the mixing bowls and bake (or in this case, “no-bake”) some magic in the kitchen. There’s something so comforting about the cozy, sweet smells wafting through the house. If you’re looking for a quick, festive dessert that’s as easy as it is indulgent, this Sugar Cookie Christmas Fudge is for you. It’s the perfect marriage of rich, creamy fudge and the nostalgic flavors of sugar cookies. Bonus? It’s a showstopper at holiday parties!

this RECIPE

A sweet holiday memory

One chilly December evening a few years ago, I found myself staring at leftover sugar cookie mix and a bag of white chocolate chips. The baking urge hit, but I didn’t have the time (or energy) to roll out and bake cookies. In a moment of culinary creativity, I melted it all together, threw in some festive sprinkles, and voilà—this recipe was born! The first bite was heavenly, like sugar cookies and fudge had teamed up to give me a warm holiday hug. Since then, it’s been my go-to treat when I want something fun, quick, and guaranteed to impress.

What’s the story behind this fudge?

Fudge has been a holiday staple for decades, beloved for its creamy texture and endless flavor possibilities. Traditional fudge requires precise temperatures and a bit of skill, but this easy version simplifies things with sweetened condensed milk and white chocolate chips. The addition of sugar cookie mix makes this recipe unique—it infuses the fudge with buttery, vanilla flavors that scream “Christmas!” And let’s not forget the sprinkles. They’re not just decorations; they’re pure joy in edible form.

Let’s talk ingredients: what makes this fudge irresistible?

This recipe keeps things simple, with just five ingredients. Here’s why each one matters:

• Sweetened condensed milk: This is the magic that binds everything together. Its creamy texture creates a silky-smooth fudge that melts in your mouth.
• White chocolate chips: The base of our fudge, white chocolate adds sweetness and a touch of richness. Look for a high-quality brand to avoid waxy textures.
• Sugar cookie mix: This is the secret weapon! It adds that iconic sugar cookie flavor and a subtle crumbly texture that makes this fudge stand out. If you’re out of sugar cookie mix, shortbread cookie mix works well too. Just make sure to heat-treat the mix to ensure it’s safe to eat (details below).
• Butter: A little butter rounds out the flavors and adds extra creaminess. Unsalted works best, but if salted is all you have, it’s not a dealbreaker.
• Christmas sprinkles: These are non-negotiable! They’re the sparkly finishing touch that makes this fudge undeniably festive. Use any sprinkles you like—stars, snowflakes, or classic red and green jimmies.

Quick tip: If you’re heat-treating the sugar cookie mix (to eliminate potential bacteria in raw flour), spread it on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. Let it cool before using.

What kitchen tools do you need?

You don’t need fancy equipment for this recipe, which is one of the reasons I love it so much. Here’s what you’ll want on hand:

• A large pot: You’ll mix everything here, so pick one with enough room to stir comfortably.
• 9×9 baking dish: The perfect size for thick, fudgey squares. If you don’t have a 9×9 pan, an 8×8 pan works too (just expect slightly thicker pieces).
• Parchment paper: Essential for easy removal. Trust me, it makes cleanup a breeze.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For stirring the fudge mixture—it gets a little thick, so a sturdy spoon is key.
• Non-stick spray: A light spritz on the parchment paper ensures nothing sticks.

No candy thermometer? No problem! This recipe doesn’t require one, making it totally foolproof.

Step-by-step: how to make sugar cookie Christmas fudge

Ready to get started? Let’s make some holiday magic:

1. Prep the pan
   Line your 9×9 baking dish with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over the sides (this will make it easier to lift the fudge out later). Lightly coat the parchment with non-stick spray and set it aside.
2. Heat the base
   In a large pot over medium heat, pour in the sweetened condensed milk. Stir frequently to prevent it from scorching—burnt fudge is no fun! Once it’s warm, add the white chocolate chips, sugar cookie mix, and butter.
3. Stir until smooth
   Keep stirring as the mixture melts into a creamy, glossy consistency. This takes about 5-7 minutes. The key is patience—don’t crank up the heat or you’ll risk seizing the chocolate.
4. Add the sprinkles
   Remove the pot from the heat and stir in a generous handful of Christmas sprinkles. Be gentle here—too much stirring can cause the colors to bleed into the fudge.
5. Pour and top
   Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle more sprinkles on top for extra sparkle.
6. Chill and set
   Pop the dish into the fridge and let the fudge set for at least 2 hours (overnight is even better). Once firm, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper, slice it into bite-sized squares, and enjoy!

How to make it your own

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Here are some fun ways to customize it:

• Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free sugar cookie mix. Same great flavor, no gluten.
• Vegan twist: Swap the white chocolate chips and butter for plant-based alternatives, and use sweetened condensed coconut milk.
• Flavor variations: Add 1 teaspoon of almond extract for a nutty twist, or mix in crushed candy canes for a peppermint version.
• Seasonal swaps: Not feeling Christmas? Use pastel sprinkles for Easter or orange and black for Halloween.
• Nutty surprise: Fold in ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.

Experimenting with flavors is part of the fun, and who knows—you might stumble upon a new favorite!

Serving ideas to impress your guests

When it’s time to serve, presentation is everything. Arrange your fudge squares on a festive platter and scatter a few extra sprinkles around for decoration. For a more polished look, wrap individual pieces in holiday-themed wax paper and tie them with twine—instant edible gifts! Pair the fudge with hot cocoa, mulled wine, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert plate.

What pairs well with this sweet treat?

This fudge is rich and sweet, so pairing it with a drink that complements (but doesn’t overwhelm) is key. Here are some ideas:

• Classic hot cocoa: Add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a cozy pairing.
• Coffee or espresso: The bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of the fudge beautifully.
• Dessert wines: A small glass of Moscato or ruby port works well for an indulgent finish.
• Peppermint tea: If you want something lighter, the minty notes are a refreshing contrast.

Storing and reheating tips

This fudge stores like a dream, making it perfect for holiday prep. Here’s what you need to know:

• Refrigerator: Store fudge in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Layer the pieces with wax paper to prevent sticking.
• Freezer: You can freeze the fudge for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
• Room temperature: If your house isn’t too warm, this fudge can sit out at room temp for a few hours without losing its texture.

Scaling the recipe for any crowd

Need to adjust the recipe? No problem! Double the ingredients for a 9×13 pan, or halve it for a smaller 8×4 loaf pan. Just remember, thicker layers will take longer to set, so plan accordingly.

Common hiccups (and how to fix them)

• Fudge won’t set: This usually happens if the ratio of liquid to chocolate is off. Make sure to measure carefully and chill for the full recommended time.
• Chocolate seizes: If the heat is too high, the chocolate can clump. Stir slowly over low heat to avoid this.
• Sprinkles bleed: Add sprinkles after removing the pot from heat, and stir gently to minimize color bleeding.

Give this festive fudge a try!

This Sugar Cookie Christmas Fudge is pure holiday magic—easy to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to be a hit. Whether you’re gifting it to friends or enjoying it by the fire, it’s a treat that’s sure to bring smiles. So grab your sprinkles, turn on some holiday tunes, and whip up a batch. I promise, it’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

FAQ

1. Do I have to heat-treat the sugar cookie mix?
Yes, if it’s raw flour, heat-treating ensures it’s safe to eat. Bake it at 350°F for 5-7 minutes before using.

2. Can I use milk chocolate instead of white chocolate?
White chocolate works best for the sugar cookie flavor, but milk chocolate can give it a unique twist!

3. How do I make this dairy-free?
Use plant-based white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed coconut milk.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! This fudge stays fresh in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or in the freezer for 3 months.

5. Why did my fudge turn grainy?
This can happen if the mixture wasn’t stirred enough while melting. Stir constantly for a smooth texture.

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