Looking for a treat that combines simplicity with irresistible flavor? These Christmas Fudge Bars have been a crowd favorite in my home for years, and for good reason! Every holiday season, I make at least 500 of these bars to share with friends, family, and neighbors—and they never last long. Rich, creamy, and full of sweetness, they’re the perfect festive treat that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether you're a novice baker or an experienced home cook, this simple yet delicious fudge bar recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients and Their Role:
This recipe uses five main ingredients—each playing an essential role in creating the perfect fudge bars.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter: The butter is the foundation, adding richness and a smooth texture to the fudge mixture.
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk: The condensed milk provides the sweetness and creamy consistency that makes the bars melt in your mouth.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a touch of warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- 6 cups powdered sugar: The powdered sugar gives the bars their signature fudge-like texture, making them soft and smooth.
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional): Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy fudge. This is optional but highly recommended for those who enjoy a bit of texture.
- Food coloring (optional): To add some festive flair! If you're making these for Christmas, green and red food coloring will give your fudge bars a cheerful holiday appearance.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper. The parchment paper ensures easy removal of the fudge bars and helps them maintain their shape when cut into squares.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a large saucepan, melt 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent it from burning. The butter is the base of the fudge, giving it that rich and creamy texture we all love.
Step 3: Combine the Sweetened Condensed Milk and Vanilla
Once the butter has fully melted, add in the 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This step adds the sweetness and comforting vanilla flavor that will be the backbone of your fudge bars.
Step 4: Gradually Add the Powdered Sugar
Slowly add 6 cups of powdered sugar into the saucepan. Stir continuously to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth, thick mixture. You’ll notice the mixture thickening up as you stir. This is the magic of powdered sugar at work, creating that perfect, fudgy texture.
Step 5: Add the Optional Ingredients
If you’re including chopped nuts, stir them in now. This is also the time to add food coloring if you want to add a festive touch. Just a few drops will go a long way! Stir until the nuts are evenly distributed, and the color is well blended.
Step 6: Spread the Mixture in the Pan
Carefully pour the fudge mixture into the prepared 9x13 inch baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the pan. Smooth the top so that it’s nice and flat, and you’re ready for the next step.
Step 7: Cool and Cut
Allow the fudge to cool completely at room temperature. This should take about 1-2 hours. Once cooled, cut the fudge into squares, and enjoy your easy, creamy Christmas Fudge Bars.
Why This Recipe is Loved:
These bars are the epitome of holiday comfort food. They strike the perfect balance of creamy sweetness and buttery richness, making them a beloved treat at every Christmas gathering. And the best part? They’re so easy to make! With just a few simple ingredients and less than 30 minutes of active time, you can create a batch of these irresistible bars that will have everyone raving.
Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Christmas Fudge Bars:
- Stir continuously: When adding the powdered sugar, be sure to stir constantly to ensure the mixture is smooth and lump-free.
- Choose high-quality butter: Since butter is a key ingredient, opt for unsalted butter for better control over the flavor.
- Add color sparingly: If you choose to use food coloring, start with a few drops and gradually add more until you reach your desired shade. You can also swirl different colors for a marble effect.
- Chill for quicker results: If you’re in a hurry, you can place the pan in the fridge for about 30 minutes to speed up the cooling process.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with hot cocoa: These fudge bars pair perfectly with a cup of rich, creamy hot chocolate—especially during those chilly holiday evenings.
- Gift in decorative tins: These bars make excellent homemade gifts. Pack them in a festive tin with a bow and you’ve got a thoughtful present that’s sure to be appreciated.
- Add to your holiday dessert spread: Serve them alongside cookies, pies, or other holiday favorites for a sweet, diverse spread of treats.
Conclusion:
These Christmas Fudge Bars are the ultimate holiday dessert—simple to make, full of flavor, and sure to bring smiles to everyone who tries them. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just craving something sweet, this recipe is your go-to for a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing treat. Plus, they’re so versatile and customizable—perfect for adding your personal touch.
Don’t miss out on more recipes like this one! Make sure to keep checking back for delicious, easy-to-follow dessert ideas that will make your holidays even sweeter. Thank you for trusting me with your holiday baking—your kitchen is about to become a festive wonderland!