Eggnog Fudge | CookFlash

Introduction

Eggnog Fudge is a creamy, decadent treat that brings the warm, festive flavors of eggnog and nutmeg into a rich and sweet fudge form. As the holiday season approaches, this indulgent dessert is the perfect way to celebrate family gatherings, office parties, or simply treat yourself to a festive snack. When I first made this fudge for my family, it immediately became a favorite. The smooth, velvety texture paired with the hint of eggnog flavor and a sprinkle of nutmeg on top makes it an irresistible dessert. It was a hit at our holiday gathering, and everyone loved how easy it was to make. If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious Christmas treat, Eggnog Fudge is sure to impress.

Ingredients

2 cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter
¾ cup eggnog
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus more for garnish)
1 jar (7 oz) marshmallow crème
1 package (12 oz) white chocolate chips
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prep: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some of the paper to hang over the edges for easy removal once the fudge is set.
Heat Mixture: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, unsalted butter, and eggnog. Stir the mixture continuously until the butter is melted and the mixture begins to boil.
Boil: Once the mixture starts to boil, stop stirring and allow it to continue boiling for about 4-5 minutes. The mixture should reach a temperature of 234°F (use a candy thermometer to measure). This is the soft-ball stage for candy, which ensures the fudge will set properly.
Add Ingredients: Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately stir in the marshmallow crème and white chocolate chips. Mix until fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Flavor: Stir in the vanilla extract and ground nutmeg. The vanilla enhances the sweetness of the fudge, while the nutmeg gives it that signature eggnog flavor.
Pour: Quickly pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the dish.
Set and Garnish: Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for at least 4 hours or until it has fully set and become firm to the touch. For a festive touch, sprinkle a little more nutmeg on top once the fudge has cooled.
Serve: Once the fudge has set, use the parchment paper to lift it out of the baking dish. Cut into small squares and enjoy this creamy, sweet treat!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Serving Size: 1 small square (assuming 16 servings)
Calories: 150 kcal
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 10mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 21g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 25mg

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Set Time: 4 hours
Total Time: Approximately 4 hours 20 minutes

How to Serve

Holiday Parties: Serve these delightful squares on a platter at your next holiday gathering or party.
Gift Giving: Package the fudge in decorative gift bags or boxes for a homemade gift that’s sure to impress.
As a Sweet Snack: Keep a batch on hand for a quick festive treat whenever you’re craving something sweet.
With a Cup of Tea or Coffee: Pair your fudge with a hot beverage for a cozy dessert.
On a Dessert Table: Add this fudge to your dessert spread alongside cookies, cakes, and pies.

Additional Tips

Use a Candy Thermometer: To ensure the fudge reaches the correct consistency, use a candy thermometer to check when the mixture hits 234°F (soft-ball stage). This step is crucial for the fudge to set properly.
Stir Continuously: Stirring the sugar and eggnog mixture until it comes to a boil helps prevent burning and ensures an even, smooth consistency.
Cooling Time: Be patient during the cooling phase. Letting the fudge cool at room temperature ensures it firms up properly.
Add Extra Flavor: If you want a stronger eggnog flavor, consider adding a splash of rum extract or real rum (if not serving to children).
Store Properly: To maintain the freshness of the fudge, store it in an airtight container, especially if you’re keeping it for several days.

Recipe Variations

Dark Chocolate Fudge: Swap out the white chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a slightly richer flavor and a touch of bitterness to balance out the sweetness.
Nutty Fudge: Stir in some finely chopped nuts, such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds, for added texture and flavor.
Vegan Fudge: Use dairy-free butter and non-dairy eggnog (such as oat or almond milk) to make this fudge suitable for vegans.
Spiced Rum Fudge: For an extra holiday twist, add a tablespoon of spiced rum instead of vanilla extract for a deeper, more aromatic flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Gift Wrapped Fudge: Wrap small squares of fudge in festive cellophane or treat bags and tie with a ribbon for an easy and delicious homemade gift.
Dessert Buffet: Add to your dessert table alongside classic holiday treats like gingerbread cookies, sugar cookies, and peppermint bark.
Holiday Breakfast Treat: Serve small squares of fudge at a family holiday breakfast with fresh coffee or eggnog.
With Hot Chocolate: For the ultimate winter treat, pair a piece of fudge with a steaming cup of hot chocolate topped with whipped cream and sprinkles.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Keep leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. The fudge will stay soft and fresh when properly stored.
Freezing: To freeze, cut the fudge into squares, layer it between sheets of wax paper in an airtight container, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Allow the fudge to thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute white chocolate with dark or milk chocolate for a different flavor profile.
How long will the fudge stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container, the fudge can last up to a week at room temperature or up to 3 months in the freezer.
Can I make this fudge ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, this fudge gets better as it sits. Make it a day or two in advance for the best results.
Is eggnog fudge suitable for children?
Yes, this recipe contains no alcohol, so it’s safe for children to enjoy.
Can I make this fudge without a candy thermometer?
While it’s best to use a thermometer for accuracy, you can also test the fudge by dropping a small amount into a glass of cold water. If it forms a soft ball, it’s ready.
Can I add different spices to this fudge?
Yes, you can experiment with adding cinnamon, allspice, or cloves to enhance the holiday flavors.
Why did my fudge turn out too soft?
If the fudge didn’t set properly, it may not have reached the correct temperature. Ensure your candy thermometer is accurate and the fudge reaches 234°F.
Can I make this fudge without marshmallow crème?
Yes, if you can’t find marshmallow crème, you can substitute with homemade marshmallow fluff or simply use additional white chocolate chips to maintain the creamy texture.
How do I know when the fudge is fully set?
Once the fudge has cooled and firmed up at room temperature, it should be firm to the touch. It should not be sticky or gooey.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe and use a larger baking dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly.

Conclusion

Eggnog Fudge is the perfect holiday treat to enjoy with family and friends. With its creamy texture, delightful eggnog flavor, and festive sprinkle of nutmeg, it’s a treat that will bring joy to any celebration. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday party, gifting it to loved ones, or simply enjoying it as a sweet snack, this fudge is sure to become a staple in your holiday dessert rotation. So, grab your ingredients, make a batch of this easy-to-make fudge, and enjoy the flavors of the season!