If you’re looking for a sweet, festive treat this holiday season, you’ve come to the right place. Sugar Cookie Fudge is a delightful blend of creamy white chocolate and the classic flavors of sugar cookies. You won’t believe how easy it is to make! In this article, I’ll walk you through the simple steps, must-have ingredients, and clever tips to elevate this holiday favorite. Ready to impress your friends and family? Let’s dive in!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This fudge comes together quickly, making it a perfect treat for last-minute gatherings.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of vanilla, almond, and white chocolate creates a delightful flavor that everyone loves.
- Festive Appearance: The colorful sprinkles not only add fun but also make it visually appealing for any occasion.
- Perfect for Sharing: With 36 squares, this recipe is great for sharing with friends and family during the holidays.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup festive sprinkles
For this sugar cookie fudge, I use simple and fun ingredients that make it festive. The butter adds creaminess, while both sugars give it that sweet crunch. The vanilla and almond extracts add a warm flavor that makes this fudge special. The flour and baking soda help it hold together. Sweetened condensed milk brings rich creaminess, and the white chocolate chips add a sweet bite. Finally, the festive sprinkles give a jolly look, perfect for any holiday table.
Ingredient Substitutions
– For butter, you can use margarine or coconut oil. Both will work well.
– If you want less sugar, try using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like Stevia.
– You can use almond milk or oat milk instead of sweetened condensed milk for a dairy-free option.
These swaps let you enjoy the fudge while meeting your dietary needs. Be sure to check the texture if you make a swap, as it might change a bit.
Recommended Tools
– Mixing bowls: Use these to blend your ingredients.
– Electric mixer: This helps cream the butter and sugars quickly.
– Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements lead to better results.
– Baking dish: An 8×8-inch dish works best for this fudge.
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more fun. It helps ensure that your sugar cookie fudge turns out just right.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
Start by creaming the butter and sugars. In a large mixing bowl, add 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 2 cups of granulated sugar, and 1 cup of packed brown sugar. Use an electric mixer to mix until it gets light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Next, add in 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract. Mix until everything is well combined.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. This step is key for the fudge’s texture. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter-sugar mix. Mix on low speed until just combined. Don’t overdo it; we want a nice balance.
Forming the Fudge Mixture
Now, it’s time to incorporate the sweetened condensed milk. Slowly pour in 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk and mix until the dough is smooth. Then, fold in 1 cup of white chocolate chips and half of the 1/2 cup of festive sprinkles. This adds fun color and flavor to your fudge.
Setting the Fudge
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang. This helps with easy removal later. Pour the fudge mixture into the dish and spread it evenly using a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining festive sprinkles on top for a cheerful finish. Now, refrigerate the fudge for at least 3 hours, or until it sets firmly. Once set, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper. Cut into squares or rectangles for serving. Enjoy your sweet treat!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Texture
To make your fudge smooth, start with softened butter. This helps it mix well with sugars. Mix the butter and sugars until they look light and fluffy. This takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer. Next, add your extracts and mix again.
Be careful not to overmix once you add the flour. Overmixing can make the fudge tough. Just mix until all the dry ingredients are combined. This keeps your fudge soft and creamy.
Decorating Ideas
Presentation is key for holiday treats. Arrange your fudge squares on a pretty plate. You can sprinkle extra festive sprinkles on top for color.
If you want to customize, try using different sprinkles. You could use red and green for Christmas or pastel colors for spring. Cupcake liners also add a fun touch. Place each square in a colorful liner for a special look.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One big mistake is mismeasuring your ingredients. Always use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy. Even a little extra flour can change the texture.
Another mistake is not refrigerating long enough. Your fudge needs at least 3 hours to set. If it’s not firm, it may fall apart when you cut it. Be patient!
Pro Tips
- Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for optimal creaming with the sugars, which helps achieve a light and fluffy texture.
- Chilling Time: Allow the fudge to chill for the full 3 hours to ensure it sets properly; this will make cutting into squares much easier.
- Mixing Technique: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet, mix on low speed to prevent overworking the dough, which can lead to a denser fudge.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftover fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent it from becoming too soft.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can make your sugar cookie fudge even more fun by adding different flavors. Try adding extracts like lemon or peppermint for a fresh twist. Just a teaspoon can change the whole taste! You can also mix in items like crushed cookies, nuts, or dried fruit. This way, you can create your own unique fudge flavor.
Seasonal Variations
For the holidays, you can add festive colors and shapes. Use red and green sprinkles to make it more cheerful. You can even shape the fudge into holiday-themed treats. For birthdays, try colorful sprinkles or mix in birthday cake-flavored bits. This makes the fudge perfect for any celebration.
Dietary Modifications
If you need gluten-free options, simply swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. This way, anyone can enjoy it! For a vegan version, use dairy-free butter and a plant-based sweetened condensed milk. Both options keep the fudge delicious while meeting dietary needs. Everyone can join in on the fun!
Storage Info
Best Storage Practices
To keep your sugar cookie fudge fresh, use airtight containers. This helps prevent moisture loss. Store the fudge in a cool, dry place. Avoid areas with high heat or humidity.
Shelf Life
How long does sugar cookie fudge last? If stored well, it lasts up to two weeks. Keep an eye out for signs your fudge has spoiled. Look for changes in color or smell. Softness can also indicate it’s time to toss it.
Freezing Instructions
How to properly freeze fudge? Cut the fudge into squares first. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place wrapped fudge in a freezer-safe container. This will keep it fresh for up to three months. Thawing tips: move the fudge to the fridge for a few hours before serving. This will help maintain its texture.
FAQs
How long does it take for sugar cookie fudge to set?
The sugar cookie fudge needs at least 3 hours to set. I find that the longer you chill it, the firmer it becomes. If you can wait overnight, that’s even better! This helps the flavors mix well and leads to a creamier texture.
Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Yes, you can use brown sugar. It will change the fudge’s taste and texture. Brown sugar adds a hint of caramel and makes the fudge softer. If you like a richer flavor, mix half granulated and half brown sugar for an even better taste.
What can I substitute for sweetened condensed milk?
If you need a dairy-free option, use coconut milk. Just reduce it to a thick cream first. You can also use almond milk mixed with sugar as a substitute. This will keep the fudge sweet and creamy without dairy.
This blog post covered how to make sugar cookie fudge from scratch. We explored key ingredients, helpful substitutions, and the tools you need. You learned step-by-step instructions, tips for perfecting texture, and ideas for fun variations.
In closing, making this fudge is simple and fun. Experiment with flavors or modify the recipe to fit your needs. Storage and serving suggestions will keep your treats fresh and tasty. Enjoy this delicious treat and share the joy of baking with other
