There’s something truly magical about Eggnog Fudge—it captures all the festive warmth and coziness of a mug of eggnog, transforms it into a melt-in-your-mouth treat, and wraps it up into perfect little squares that are just right for sharing (or keeping all to yourself). Eggnog Fudge is incredibly rich, creamy, and delicately spiced, making it a holiday showstopper whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, gifting it to neighbors, or sneaking a piece over a cup of coffee. The best part? It’s surprisingly simple to make, with just a handful of easy-to-find ingredients and a method that any home cook can master.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every element in this recipe is carefully chosen—there’s nothing fussy, yet each ingredient brings something essential to the party, from the creamy base to the warmth of nutmeg. These are the building blocks for that unbeatable flavor and luscious texture you crave in Eggnog Fudge.
- Unsalted butter: Provides richness and a soft, creamy texture as the base for the fudge.
- Eggnog: The star of the show, infusing the entire batch with classic holiday flavor and creaminess.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens things up and gives the fudge structure as it sets.
- White baker’s chocolate: Helps create that dreamy smooth melt—avoid chocolate chips for the best consistency.
- Marshmallow crème: Lends extra silkiness and the perfect soft bite, almost like a cloud in every piece.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the fudge’s warm flavor and rounds out the sweetness.
- Nutmeg (divided): Adds irresistible, classic eggnog spice—save some for a fragrant finish right on top.
How to Make Eggnog Fudge
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, and give it a quick mist with nonstick cooking spray. This little step makes a huge difference for easy fudge removal—no sticking, no tearing, just perfect neat squares when it’s time to slice.
Step 2: Boil the Base
Combine your butter, eggnog, and sugar in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Bring this trio to a gentle boil, then turn down the heat to medium-high. Stir constantly (seriously, don’t stray!) as the sugar slowly dissolves and the mixture bubbles away. Keep stirring and let it reach 234°F on a candy thermometer, which should take about 10 minutes. The aroma wafting up will already start to smell like the holidays!
Step 3: Add the White Chocolate
Once you’ve hit the right temperature, whisk the pan off the heat right away. Immediately stir in the white baker’s chocolate. Keep going until it melts completely into the hot mixture—you want no streaks and a glossy look. This is where the fudge starts to become exquisitely smooth.
Step 4: Mix in Marshmallow Crème and Flavorings
Without waiting, spoon in all the marshmallow crème and keep stirring until every bit is blended in. Then add your vanilla extract and half of the nutmeg, folding everything together so the flavors swirl through every bite. The mixture will look luscious and thick—completely irresistible already.
Step 5: Set, Sprinkle, and Chill
Pour the fudge into your prepared pan and smooth the top. For that classic Eggnog Fudge look and aroma, sprinkle the remaining nutmeg evenly over the surface. Let your masterpiece chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. This wait is the hardest part, but slicing into cool, creamy squares is worth every minute!
How to Serve Eggnog Fudge
Garnishes
Eggnog Fudge is divine all on its own, but you can take it up a notch with a finishing flourish. A little extra freshly grated nutmeg on top just before serving looks gorgeous and intensifies that nostalgic holiday flavor. For extra sparkle, add a pinch of sanding sugar or a swirl of white chocolate drizzle if you’re feeling fancy.
Side Dishes
Balance out the rich sweetness of Eggnog Fudge with something light and contrasting on your dessert table. Pair it with a platter of crisp butter cookies, spiced gingersnaps, or a bowl of tart cranberries. Hot coffee or mulled cider alongside make the perfect pairing for an unforgettable holiday treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Show off your Eggnog Fudge by cutting it into neat squares or even small festive shapes using cookie cutters. Arrange the pieces in mini cupcake liners for a charming gift box, or stack them on a pretty platter with edible gold stars for a party showpiece. For edible gifts, wrap each piece in parchment and tuck into a holiday tin with a handwritten label.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Eggnog Fudge ultra-fresh by storing it in an airtight container, separated by layers of parchment paper to prevent sticking. It’ll stay at its best for up to a week in the refrigerator—making it ideal for prepping ahead of time during the busy holiday season.
Freezing
If you want to extend the magic a little longer, Eggnog Fudge freezes beautifully. Place individual squares between sheets of wax or parchment, tuck them into a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze for up to two months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating
Eggnog Fudge is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you’d like it a tad softer, let it sit out for a few minutes before serving—no need to heat it up! If you must, a few seconds in the microwave on a very low setting will make it just a bit creamier, but be careful not to melt it completely.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought eggnog for this fudge?
Absolutely! Store-bought eggnog works perfectly in Eggnog Fudge and saves time. Just choose one you love to drink, since its flavor shines through in the final result.
What kind of white chocolate should I use?
Stick with white baker’s chocolate (the bars found in the baking aisle) instead of chips. Baker’s chocolate melts smoothly and blends into the fudge for that signature silky texture.
Is there a way to make Eggnog Fudge without a candy thermometer?
While the candy thermometer makes things foolproof, you can do a simple soft-ball test: Drop a spoonful of the hot mixture into cold water—it should form a soft, pliable ball. Still, using a thermometer is easier for consistent results.
How long does Eggnog Fudge last?
If stored properly in the fridge, Eggnog Fudge can last up to a week without losing its flavor or texture. For longer storage, freezing is a great option.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Definitely—feel free to stir in chopped pecans, walnuts, or even festive sprinkles to the fudge before spreading it in the pan. Just make sure any additions are mixed in quickly while the fudge is still warm and soft.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like sharing a batch of homemade Eggnog Fudge during the holidays. It’s easy to make, uniquely delicious, and has a way of making every gathering feel extra-special. If you love eggnog, or simply want to add a new tradition to your dessert lineup, trust me—this fudge is one recipe you won’t want to skip!
Print
Eggnog Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This smooth and creamy eggnog fudge is the perfect holiday treat or homemade gift. It is super simple to make and the texture literally melts in your mouth.
Ingredients
For the Eggnog Fudge:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup eggnog
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 12 ounces white bakers chocolate (not chocolate chips)
- 2 cups marshmallow crème
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg (divided)
Instructions
- Line the Baking Dish: Line an 8” x 8” baking dish with parchment paper and spray lightly with food cooking spray.
- Cook the Mixture: In a heavy saucepan, bring butter, eggnog, and sugar to a boil. Reduce heat and continue to boil until the candy thermometer reaches 234°F, stirring constantly (about 10 minutes).
- Add Ingredients: Remove from heat and stir in white chocolate until melted. Mix in marshmallow crème until combined. Add vanilla and 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg.
- Spread and Chill: Spread the mixture in the prepared dish and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg on top. Chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours before cutting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Mixing, Boiling, Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approx. 40g)
- Calories: 216kcal
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 54mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
