Festive Holiday Eggnog Fudge Recipe: A Sweet Treat for All

Whipping up a batch of creamy eggnog fudge brings pure holiday magic to your kitchen.

Sweet memories dance through the air as rich, velvety flavors meld together.

Festive desserts sometimes feel complicated, but this recipe breaks down those barriers.

Seasonal spices like nutmeg and cinnamon create a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes everyone smile.

Cold winter nights deserve something special that sparks joy and comfort.

Smooth, decadent squares promise to become your new favorite seasonal treat.

Dive into this delightful confection and let the celebration begin.

FAQs

• What is the purpose of using a candy thermometer in this recipe?

The candy thermometer ensures the mixture reaches exactly 234°F, which is the soft-ball stage, crucial for creating the perfect fudge texture and ensuring it sets properly.

• Why do I need to stop stirring when the mixture starts boiling?

Stopping stirring allows the sugar to reach the correct temperature without crystallizing, which helps create a smooth, creamy fudge consistency.

• Can I substitute ingredients in this eggnog fudge recipe?

White chocolate chips and marshmallow crème are essential for the right texture, so substitutions might alter the final result. However, you can adjust nutmeg levels to suit your taste preference.

Eggnog Fudge Highlights

• Capture Holiday Magic: Transform classic eggnog into a decadent, melt-in-your-mouth fudge that brings festive cheer to every bite.
• Minimal Kitchen Skills Required: Perfect for novice bakers, this recipe demands simple steps and basic cooking techniques without complicated professional skills.
• Festive Family Delight: Craft a crowd-pleasing dessert that sparks holiday memories, creates joyful moments, and delivers rich, creamy indulgence everyone will adore.
• Quick Celebration Treat: Prepare a stunning sweet in less than an hour, making it ideal for spontaneous gatherings, potlucks, or last-minute dessert cravings during the holiday season.

Ingredients in Eggnog Fudge

• Granulated Sugar: The primary sweetener that helps create the smooth texture of the fudge.
• Unsalted Butter: Provides richness and helps bind the fudge ingredients together.
• Eggnog: Adds the classic holiday flavor and creamy consistency to the fudge.

• Marshmallow Crème: Helps create a smooth, soft texture and adds sweetness.
• White Chocolate Chips: Melts to create a creamy base and enhances the overall richness of the fudge.

• Vanilla Extract, Ground Nutmeg: These spices bring the traditional eggnog taste and warm holiday aroma to the fudge.

• Parchment Paper: Used for easy removal and clean cutting of the fudge.

Step-by-Step Eggnog Fudge Preparation

Step 1: Set Up Baking Station

Grab an 8×8-inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper. Let the paper hang over the edges so you can easily lift out the fudge later.

This trick makes removing your delicious creation a breeze.

Step 2: Create Sweet Candy Base

• Granulated sugar
• Unsalted butter
• Eggnog

Stir the mixture constantly over medium heat.

Watch the butter melt and blend with the other ingredients until the mixture starts bubbling.

Step 3: Boil to Perfection

Stop stirring and let the mixture boil for 4-5 minutes.

Use a candy thermometer to check the temperature – you want it to reach exactly 234°F. This is the magic moment that ensures your fudge will set perfectly.

Step 4: Melt Creamy Ingredients

• Marshmallow crème
• White chocolate chips

Mix until everything becomes smooth and wonderfully creamy. The mixture should look silky and inviting.

Step 5: Add Signature Eggnog Flavor

Sprinkle in vanilla extract and ground nutmeg. These ingredients transform your fudge from ordinary to extraordinary, giving it that classic holiday taste everyone loves.

Step 6: Pour and Spread

Quickly transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, making sure every corner gets covered with the delectable mixture.

Step 7: Cool and Set

Let the fudge rest at room temperature for at least 4 hours. It needs time to firm up and develop its perfect texture.

For an extra festive touch, dust a bit more nutmeg on top once it’s cooled.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

When the fudge is completely set, lift it out using the parchment paper edges.

Cut into small, bite-sized squares. Your homemade holiday treat is ready to delight friends and family!

Expert Tips on Eggnog Fudge

• Use a reliable candy thermometer to hit the exact 234°F soft-ball stage, ensuring perfect fudge texture every single time.
• Stir marshmallow crème and white chocolate chips immediately after removing from heat to create a smooth, lump-free consistency.
• Freshly grated nutmeg provides a more intense, aromatic flavor compared to pre-ground spice, elevating the traditional eggnog taste.
• Let fudge set at room temperature for at least 4 hours to achieve the ideal firm, creamy texture without refrigeration interference.
• Store fudge in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper at room temperature for up to one week to maintain its delightful softness.

Variations to Try with Eggnog Fudge

• Rum-Spiked Eggnog Fudge: Add 2-3 tablespoons of dark rum to the mixture for an adult-friendly version with deeper flavor complexity.
• Dairy-Free Holiday Fudge: Replace eggnog with coconut milk and use dairy-free white chocolate chips for a lactose-free alternative that maintains creamy texture.
• Maple Eggnog Fudge: Substitute half the granulated sugar with pure maple syrup to create a rich, woodland-inspired winter dessert with subtle caramel undertones.
• Gluten-Free Spiced Version: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free and add extra warming spices like cinnamon and cardamom for enhanced holiday flavor profile.

Pairing Ideas for Eggnog Fudge

Brew a rich, spiced chai tea that echoes the nutmeg notes in the eggnog fudge, creating a cozy winter flavor harmony.

Select a smooth, aged bourbon with caramel undertones that complement the sweet, creamy fudge and enhance its holiday spirit.

Serve alongside crisp, tart cranberry sorbet to balance the fudge’s richness and provide a refreshing palate cleanser between bites.

Prepare a small shot of espresso with a hint of cinnamon to cut through the sweetness and highlight the fudge’s depth of flavor.

How to Store Eggnog Fudge Properly

• Store fudge in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper for up to 2 weeks. Keep refrigerated to maintain its creamy texture and prevent melting.
• Wrap individual fudge pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months for longer storage. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Keep fudge in a sealed container away from direct sunlight and heat. Consume within 3-4 days for optimal flavor and texture. Place in a cool, dry spot to prevent softening.
• Gently warm fudge in the microwave for 5-10 seconds if desired. Avoid overheating, as it can cause the fudge to lose its smooth consistency and become grainy.

Eggnog Fudge Recipe

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4.7 from 24 reviews

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 24 1x

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Description

Creamy, dreamy eggnog fudge delights holiday taste buds with rich, velvety indulgence. Smooth white chocolate and seasonal spices create a merry dessert that sparks festive cheer you’ll savor with each delectable bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dairy and Base Ingredients:

• 1 cup (236 ml) eggnog
• 1 package (12 ounces / 340 grams) white chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter
• 1 jar (7 ounces / 198 grams) marshmallow crème

Sweeteners and Sugars:

• 2 cups (400 grams) granulated sugar

Flavoring and Spices:

• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Prepare an 8×8-inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring excess paper hangs over the edges for effortless removal of the fudge once set.
2. Combine granulated sugar, unsalted butter, and eggnog in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Continuously stir until butter completely dissolves and the mixture reaches a rolling boil.
3. Allow the mixture to boil without stirring for 4-5 minutes, monitoring the temperature until it hits exactly 234°F using a candy thermometer – the critical soft-ball stage for perfect fudge consistency.
4. Immediately remove the saucepan from heat and vigorously incorporate marshmallow crème and white chocolate chips, stirring until the mixture transforms into a smooth, glossy consistency.
5. Introduce vanilla extract and ground nutmeg, blending thoroughly to infuse the distinctive eggnog flavor profile throughout the fudge mixture.
6. Swiftly transfer the molten mixture into the prepared baking dish, using a spatula to distribute evenly and eliminate any potential air pockets.
7. Allow the fudge to rest at room temperature for minimum 4 hours, enabling complete solidification. Optional: Dust with additional nutmeg for an elegant finishing touch.
8. Once fully set, leverage the parchment paper edges to extract the fudge from the dish. Slice into petite, uniform squares ready for indulgence.

Notes

• Always use a reliable candy thermometer to accurately measure the temperature, ensuring the perfect fudge consistency without crystallization.
• Prevent sugar from burning by stirring constantly during the initial heating phase and avoiding high heat.
• Consider using lactose-free eggnog and white chocolate for those with dairy sensitivities, maintaining the classic holiday flavor profile.
• Enhance texture by gently folding in crushed graham crackers or toasted pecans for added crunch and depth of flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 24
• Calories: 192
• Sugar: 23 g
• Sodium: 22 mg
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 27 g
• Fiber: 0.3 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg