Marshmallow fudge – This rich, creamy treat combines the velvety texture of fudge with the light, fluffy sweetness of marshmallows, making it irresistible to both kids and adults for a holiday platter, gifting homemade confections, or satisfying your sweet tooth.
What Is Marshmallow Fudge?
Marshmallow fudge is a decadent dessert made by melting chocolate and combining it with marshmallows, butter, sugar, and condensed milk. The marshmallows not only add a delightful chewiness but also contribute to the fudge’s smooth texture. This classic treat often graces dessert tables during the holidays, but it’s a perfect year-round delight.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Marshmallow Fudge
To ensure your marshmallow fudge is smooth, creamy, and perfectly set, keep these tips in mind:
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Invest in premium chocolate and fresh marshmallows. The better the quality of your ingredients, the richer the flavor.
- Prepare Your Pan: Line your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Grease the paper lightly to prevent sticking.
- Control the Heat: Melt your ingredients over low to medium heat to avoid scorching the chocolate or creating a gritty texture.
- Mix Quickly: Once all the ingredients are melted, work quickly to combine them. The mixture thickens as it cools, so speed is key.
- Test for Doneness: If you’re making fudge from scratch without condensed milk, use the “soft ball” stage test. Drop a small amount of the mixture into cold water—if it forms a soft, pliable ball, it’s ready.
Variations of Marshmallow Fudge
One of the joys of marshmallow fudge is how customizable it is. Here are some creative twists to try:
- Rocky Road Fudge: Add chopped almonds, walnuts, and a sprinkle of mini marshmallows for a nutty, chewy delight
- Peanut Butter Swirl Fudge: Swirl creamy peanut butter through the fudge before it sets for a sweet and salty combo.
- Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Fudge: Replace milk chocolate with dark chocolate and sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for a sophisticated flavor profile.
- Holiday-Themed Fudge: Incorporate red and green sprinkles, crushed peppermint candy, or festive food coloring to match any holiday.
- S’mores Fudge: Add crushed graham crackers and extra marshmallows to channel campfire vibes.
How to Serve Marshmallow Fudge
- As a Dessert Platter: Cut the fudge into small squares and arrange them with cookies and fruit for a beautiful dessert tray.
- Gift-Wrapped Treats: Wrap individual pieces in wax paper or cellophane and present them in a decorative tin.
- Toppings: Dice the fudge into small cubes and use it as a topping for ice cream or milkshakes.
How to Store Marshmallow Fudge
Proper storage ensures your fudge stays fresh and delicious:
- Room Temperature: Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Refrigeration: If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate the fudge to maintain its texture. Bring it to room temperature before serving.
- Freezing: Wrap individual pieces in wax paper and store them in a freezer-safe bag. Marshmallow fudge can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use marshmallow fluff instead of marshmallows?
Yes! Marshmallow fluff works well as a substitute and creates a smooth, creamy texture. Use the same quantity as regular marshmallows.
2. Why is my fudge grainy?
Graininess occurs when sugar crystals form. Avoid over-stirring the mixture and ensure the sugar is fully dissolved before adding the chocolate.
3. Can I make marshmallow fudge without a candy thermometer?
Yes, if you’re using condensed milk, you can skip the candy thermometer since the recipe doesn’t rely on precise sugar temperatures.
4. How can I make vegan marshmallow fudge?
Use dairy-free chocolate, coconut milk, and vegan marshmallows. The process remains the same, but ensure all ingredients are plant-based.
5. What’s the best pan size for marshmallow fudge?
An 8×8-inch square pan is ideal for most recipes. For thinner pieces, you can use a 9×13-inch pan.
Marshmallow Fudge
Marshmallow fudge - This rich, creamy treat combines the velvety texture of fudge with the light, fluffy sweetness of marshmallows, making it irresistible to both kids and adults for a holiday platter, gifting homemade confections, or satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup butter (1 1/2 sticks; no margarine)
- 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup full-fat evaporated milk (not sweetened condensed milk)
- 12 oz high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips (2 cups)
- 7 oz jar marshmallow creme (fluff)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prep Ahead: Fudge-making moves fast! Measure all your ingredients and line an 8x8 or 9x9 pan with parchment paper. Open your chocolate chips and prep the marshmallow creme by removing the lid and foil (you’ll microwave it later).
- Start the Fudge Base: In a heavy 3-quart saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Use a spoon to grease the sides of the pot with the melting butter.
- Combine Sugar and Milk: Slowly pour in the sugar, being careful not to let it stick to the pot’s edges. Stir until it’s coated with butter, then add the evaporated milk. Ensure all sugar crystals are dissolved before boiling.
- Boil with Care: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Stir constantly for exactly 5 minutes.
- Use a candy thermometer if you have one—it should reach 234–236°F. Remove from heat if it reaches this temp earlier.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Immediately stir in the chocolate chips until completely melted and smooth. Any lumps now will appear in the fudge, so stir thoroughly!
- Incorporate Marshmallow Creme: Microwave the marshmallow creme for 10–15 seconds to make scooping easier. Add it to the pot and stir vigorously until nearly combined.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract and continue mixing until the fudge is smooth, with no streaks of marshmallow remaining.
- Pour and Set: Quickly pour the mixture into your prepared pan. Let the fudge settle naturally—don’t smooth the top. Allow it to cool at room temperature.
- Slice and Serve: Once set, cut the fudge into small pieces (7x7 rows for 49 squares is a good size).
Nutrition Information
Yield
45Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 126Total Fat 6gSaturated Fat 3gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 2gCholesterol 9mgSodium 33mgCarbohydrates 20gFiber 0gSugar 18gProtein 1g
TastyFitnessRecipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although tastyfitnessrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Conclusion
Marshmallow fudge is the perfect combination of indulgent flavor and delightful texture. With endless variations and easy preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and time again. Whether you’re crafting it for a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, marshmallow fudge will always impress.
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