If you’re craving a rich, melt-in-your-mouth treat that tastes exactly like your favorite wintertime beverage, Hot Chocolate Fudge is about to become your new obsession. Swirled with gooey marshmallows, creamy chocolate, and finished with a glossy drizzle, every bite is pure nostalgia in candy form. This quick and easy dessert is a celebration of all things cozy, perfect for holiday parties, homemade gifts, or an indulgent family movie night. Plus, it’s shockingly simple—no candy thermometer or fancy gear required. Just one bowl, a microwave, and a little patience while it chills (the hardest part)! Trust me: Hot Chocolate Fudge brings happiness with every decadent square.

Hot Chocolate Fudge Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Hot Chocolate Fudge is proof that a handful of quality ingredients can work absolute magic together. Each component plays a key role, from the gooey marshmallow pockets to the creamy, double-chocolate base. Here’s what you’ll need—and why you need it:

Semi Sweet Chocolate Chips: Offers the rich cocoa base and balances the sweetness from the milk chocolate and condensed milk.
Milk Chocolate Chips: Adds creaminess and that classic “hot cocoa” flavor profile.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: Binds the fudge, creates silky smooth texture, and delivers sweetness without granulated sugar.
Hot Chocolate Mix: Infuses that unmistakably cozy, cocoa-powder softness to every bite—don’t skip this for true hot chocolate flavor!
Salted Butter: Rounds out the richness, keeps the fudge soft, and adds a pop of flavor.
Pure Vanilla Extract: Deepens the flavor and adds a warm, homey aroma.
Miniature Marshmallows: Two different placements—some melted through, some on top—make this fudge taste like a mug of cocoa with extra marshmallows.
Semi Sweet Chocolate Chips (for drizzle): The glossy finishing touch: they melt over the marshmallow topping and add even more chocolatey wow-factor.
Vegetable Oil: Helps give the chocolate drizzle that perfect, pourable sheen.

How to Make Hot Chocolate Fudge

Step 1: Prep the Pan

Start by lining an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper. Leave enough paper over the edges to create handles for easy lifting later—this makes unmolding a breeze. If you have small binder clips, use those to secure the parchment along the top so it doesn’t flop over into your fudge. Give the parchment a light mist of nonstick spray for an extra insurance policy against sticking.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Base

In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine your semi sweet chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, hot chocolate mix, and the pats of salted butter. Microwave everything on high for one minute, then stir: the chips should already start melting. Keep microwaving in 45-second increments, stirring between each, until the mixture is lush and completely smooth—usually about 2 and a half to 3 minutes total, depending on your microwave’s power.

Step 3: Flavor Boost and Marshmallow Swirl

Stir in your vanilla extract until you can smell its sweet fragrance wafting up. Scoop in two cups of the miniature marshmallows, folding them through the chocolate mixture so they’re evenly scattered. This step creates those signature little clouds of marshmallow in the finished fudge.

Step 4: Quick Marshmallow Melt

Pop the bowl back in the microwave for just another 20 to 30 seconds—this helps the marshmallows soften a bit more, so when you stir a couple of times, they distribute and melt slightly into the fudge.

Step 5: Pour and Top

Transfer your fudge mixture into the prepared pan, using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth it all the way to the corners. Sprinkle the remaining two cups of miniature marshmallows evenly over the top. Gently press them down so they’ll stick as the fudge chills.

Step 6: Chill Until Firm

Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and chill everything in the refrigerator for at least two hours, or until the fudge is completely firm. This sets both the chocolate and the marshmallow topping, making the fudge ultra-easy to slice into neat squares.

Step 7: Chocolate Drizzle Finale

When the fudge is set, lift it out by the parchment paper and set it on a cutting board. In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt together the remaining semi sweet chocolate chips with the vegetable oil in 30-second bursts, stirring until glossy and smooth. Use a spoon to drizzle this over the marshmallow layer—think zig-zags or Jackson Pollock vibes! Let the chocolate set before slicing the fudge into five-by-five rows for 25 pieces. Store any leftovers in the fridge until you’re ready to surprise your friends, or just treat yourself!

How to Serve Hot Chocolate Fudge

Garnishes

For a gorgeous finishing touch, scatter a few extra mini marshmallows or chocolate curls on top to echo all those fudge flavors. A dusting of cocoa powder or a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies will give your Hot Chocolate Fudge a festive, holiday-ready look.

Side Dishes

This fudge pairs beautifully with a steamy mug of coffee, espresso, or (naturally!) a cup of real hot cocoa for a double chocolate hit. Want to balance out all the richness? Fresh berries or fruit add a hint of brightness next to every bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the Hot Chocolate Fudge into small cubes and pop them in candy cups as part of a dessert tray, or wrap individual pieces in parchment and tie with twine for adorable homemade gifts. For parties, stack the squares on a platter with miniature tongs or skewer pieces with fun festive picks.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After slicing, Hot Chocolate Fudge keeps best in an airtight container lined with wax or parchment paper. Separate layers with extra parchment to prevent sticking. Store in the refrigerator for up to one week for peak freshness and texture.

Freezing

If you want to get a jump on party prep or save some fudge for later, you can absolutely freeze it. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and tuck them into a zip-top freezer bag. Freeze for up to two months—thaw in the fridge overnight before serving so they retain their creamy, dreamy consistency.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat Hot Chocolate Fudge, but if you love a gooey, melty bite (think s’mores vibes!), pop a square in the microwave for 5 to 10 seconds. It softens just a touch and makes those marshmallows practically sing.

FAQs

Can I use all semi sweet or all milk chocolate chips?

Absolutely! While the mix of both provides fantastic depth and a classic hot chocolate taste, you can use whichever you prefer or have on hand. Just note: all milk chocolate will be sweeter, while all semi sweet makes for a slightly more grown-up, bittersweet fudge.

Do I have to use hot chocolate mix, or can I substitute cocoa powder?

The hot chocolate mix gives the fudge that nostalgic, creamy flavor reminiscent of a steaming mug of cocoa. You could substitute unsweetened cocoa powder, but you’d need to add sugar to get a similar sweetness. For the real “Hot Chocolate Fudge” effect, the mix is the way to go.

Can I make Hot Chocolate Fudge without a microwave?

Definitely—just use a heavy saucepan over low heat, and melt everything together gently, stirring often. The stovetop method offers just as much success; it’ll just take a few more minutes and a bit of attention.

How do I make clean cuts for neat fudge squares?

The secret is to use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between slices. Chilling the fudge until very firm makes a big difference, as does patience! Sometimes running your knife under hot water and wiping it dry before cutting also helps create super-smooth edges.

Can I add mix-ins like nuts or extra chocolate pieces?

Yes! If you love extra texture, fold in some chopped toasted nuts, crushed graham crackers, or even chocolate chunks along with the first batch of marshmallows. Hot Chocolate Fudge is delightfully adaptable, so feel free to personalize.

Final Thoughts

I sincerely hope you give this Hot Chocolate Fudge recipe a try—it’s every bit as magical as your favorite mug of cocoa, but even more decadent. Perfect for special occasions or simply snacking at home, it’s the treat that always brings smiles. Gather your ingredients, give it a go, and trust me: once you taste your first square, you’ll be hooked!