Imagine curling up with a blanket and a mug of cocoa, but in fudge form: that’s exactly what Hot Chocolate Fudge delivers, combining velvety chocolate, pillowy marshmallows, and all the nostalgia of your favorite winter drink in each decadently creamy square. This celebration-ready dessert is blissfully easy to whip together—no oven required—and each bite offers a rich meltiness with a surprise pop of mini marshmallows. Whether you’re gifting, sharing, or sneaking squares straight from the fridge, this Hot Chocolate Fudge will easily become a signature treat for holidays and cozy nights in alike.

Hot Chocolate Fudge Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Hot Chocolate Fudge is in its simplicity: just a handful of classic, pantry-friendly ingredients, each one essential in layering flavor and texture. These elements combine to create a confection that’s equal parts creamy, chocolatey, and utterly charming.

Semisweet chocolate chips (3 cups): The heart of the fudge, bringing that rich chocolate flavor and luscious, smooth texture.
Sweetened condensed milk (1 can, 14 oz): Lends sweetness and a dreamy, creamy consistency that binds the fudge together beautifully.
Unsalted butter (1/4 cup): Adds silkiness and depth, making each square indulgently melt-in-your-mouth.
Hot cocoa mix (1/4 cup, with or without marshmallows): Infuses extra chocolatey warmth and that nostalgic hot cocoa hint.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances and rounds out the chocolate for a comforting, home-baked aroma.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just a pinch amps up all the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
Mini marshmallows (1 cup): For gooey surprises in every bite—plus extra for a snowy, wintry top finish.
Crushed peppermint or sprinkles (optional): For those festive finishing touches that make your Hot Chocolate Fudge pop on any holiday platter.

How to Make Hot Chocolate Fudge

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper, making sure there’s a generous overhang on the sides. This detail is your secret to lifting the set fudge out easily and cutting perfect squares—plus, cleanup will be a breeze!

Step 2: Melt the Base

In a medium saucepan set over low heat, combine the semisweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, butter, hot cocoa mix, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir constantly and patiently; the mixture will gently transform into a glossy, unified mass. Give it about 5–7 minutes—watch it closely so the chocolate doesn’t scorch, and enjoy the aroma filling your kitchen!

Step 3: Add the Magic—Marshmallows!

Remove the pan from heat and immediately fold in the mini marshmallows. The heat from the fudge will slightly melt the marshmallows, leaving you with a gooey, creamy filling and pillowy bites in every square.

Step 4: Pour and Decorate

Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Now comes the fun part: top with extra mini marshmallows, a shower of crushed peppermint, or a scatter of festive sprinkles. This is where your Hot Chocolate Fudge gets its signature look!

Step 5: Chill and Set

Pop the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is completely set and firm. If you’re feeling impatient, peek in to see the marshmallows peeking through! Once set, lift the fudge out using the parchment and cut into bite-size squares.

Step 6: Serve and Savor

Your Hot Chocolate Fudge is ready to enjoy, whether you love it chilled straight from the fridge or prefer it a little softer at room temperature. Each piece is guaranteed to transport you to hot cocoa season, no matter the time of year.

How to Serve Hot Chocolate Fudge

Garnishes

You can never go wrong with a few extra mini marshmallows sprinkled on top. For a festive twist, add a dusting of crushed peppermint candy or brightly-colored sprinkles. A light drizzle of melted chocolate or a pinch of flaky sea salt can also elevate the presentation and flavor, making your fudge truly irresistible.

Side Dishes

Pair your Hot Chocolate Fudge with a steaming mug of coffee or, of course, rich hot chocolate for the ultimate cozy treat. If you’re creating a dessert platter, try adding crisp biscotti, sliced strawberries, or buttery shortbread cookies for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

Creative Ways to Present

Wrap individual squares in parchment and tie with twine for holiday gifts, or stack them in pretty tins for a party favor. For a playful twist, skewer fudge cubes with marshmallows and berries, or use them as a show-stopping hot cocoa topping that slowly melts into your drink!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Hot Chocolate Fudge can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay perfectly fresh and creamy for up to 2 weeks. Stack layers with parchment or wax paper in between to prevent sticking, so every square stays picture-perfect.

Freezing

If you want to keep your fudge even longer, it freezes beautifully! Place squares in a freezer-safe container, with parchment paper layers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

While Hot Chocolate Fudge is delectable straight from the fridge, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes for a softer bite. If you’re after a meltier experience, pop a square in the microwave for just 5–10 seconds—but keep an eye out, as the marshmallows may puff up unexpectedly!

FAQs

Can I use dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips instead?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate will make your Hot Chocolate Fudge richer and slightly less sweet, while milk chocolate chips bring a classic creamy taste. Mix and match to find your personal favorite blend.

Is it necessary to use hot cocoa mix with marshmallows?

Nope, you can use any hot cocoa mix you like—the marshmallows are optional and don’t affect the outcome. If you enjoy pockets of gooey marshmallow throughout, be generous with the mini marshmallows in the fudge itself.

What’s the best way to cut fudge without making a mess?

For clean, tidy squares, run a sharp knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and cut the fudge in smooth, confident strokes. Repeat as needed between cuts to prevent sticky build-up on the blade.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

You sure can! Simply double all the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan for a bigger batch. The chilling time may increase slightly, so check that the center is fully set before cutting.

Are there any fun ways to customize Hot Chocolate Fudge?

Yes! Try stirring in toasted nuts, dried fruit, or a swirl of peanut butter. Flavored extracts (like peppermint or almond) also bring a new twist. Let your imagination run wild—you can make this fudge uniquely yours each time.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a treat that captures the cozy indulgence of winter in every bite, Hot Chocolate Fudge is an absolute must-try. It’s unfussy, satisfying, and guaranteed to disappear from the dessert tray faster than you can say “save me another piece!” Don’t wait for a special occasion—grab your ingredients and let this delightful fudge become your new favorite tradition.

Hot Chocolate Fudge Recipe

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4.7 from 29 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 20 minutes plus chilling
Yield: 36 small squares 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of Hot Chocolate Fudge, a decadent treat perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. This no-bake dessert is a delightful fusion of chocolate and marshmallows, topped with optional peppermint or sprinkles for a festive touch.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Fudge:

3 cups semisweet chocolate chips
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup hot cocoa mix (with or without marshmallows)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup mini marshmallows

For Topping:

Optional crushed peppermint or sprinkles

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Instructions

Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Melt Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, butter, hot cocoa mix, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir constantly until smooth, about 5–7 minutes.
Add Marshmallows: Remove from heat and fold in the mini marshmallows.
Set Fudge: Pour the mixture into the pan, spread evenly, and top with additional marshmallows, peppermint, or sprinkles if desired.
Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set. Cut into squares and serve cold or at room temperature.