Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ah, eggnog fudge! It’s a sweet little treat that captures the magic of the holiday season. If you love the rich, creamy flavor of eggnog, then this fudge is going to quickly become a favorite in your home. Each creamy bite is like a warm hug, perfect for chilly evenings wrapped up with loved ones or snuggled on the couch watching holiday movies.
Imagine whipping up a batch of this fudge while Christmas carols play softly in the background, the aroma of freshly baked treats filling the air. It is easy to make and even easier to fall in love with. Plus, it’s a perfect treat for busy parents who want to dazzle their kids or impress guests during a holiday brunch.
So grab your apron and let’s get started on something that will surely become a family tradition.
how to make Eggnog Fudge
Making eggnog fudge is a fun and straightforward process that anyone can tackle. I promise, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will turn out perfectly. You’ll be left with a creamy, delightful treat in just a little over an hour. Here’s how to do it!
Ingredients
– 1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
– 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
– 3/4 cup eggnog (minus 2 tablespoons)
– 2 cups sugar
– 1 (11 ounce) package white chocolate chips
– 1 (7 ounce) jar marshmallow crème
– 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (and more for topping)
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Directions
1. **Prepare Your Pan:** Start by lining a 9×9 or 8×8 inch pan with aluminum foil. This makes it super easy to lift the fudge out later. Once it’s lined, butter the foil to prevent sticking.
-
Combine Ingredients: In a heavy medium saucepan, combine your butter, eggnog, cream, and sugar. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Watch the magical transformation; it’s delightful!
-
Cook to Perfection: Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat just a bit to avoid any splatters. Cook the mixture until it reaches 235 degrees, which is known as the soft ball stage. If you don’t have a candy thermometer, don’t worry. A small drop of the mixture in cold water should form a soft ball.
-
Add Chocolate: Remove your saucepan from the heat. Quickly stir in the white chocolate chips. Keep stirring until they melt completely and are well blended into the creamy mixture.
-
Mix the Goodies: Now, add in the marshmallow crème, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Stir until it’s all smooth and velvety. This is the moment when you cannot resist stealing a spoonful!
-
Spread and Cool: Pour the delicious fudge mixture into your prepared pan. Spread it out evenly and dust a little more nutmeg on top to enhance that holiday flavor.
-
Let It Set: Allow the fudge to cool completely at room temperature before cutting it into squares. This could take a couple of hours, but the wait will definitely be worth it!
how to serve Eggnog Fudge
When it comes to serving your eggnog fudge, think about how to make every moment special. Cut the fudge into bite-sized squares and plate them beautifully for a festive touch. If you’re gathering with friends, create a hot cocoa bar on the table alongside your fudge. Guests can enjoy a rich cup of hot chocolate while nibbling on these sweet treats.
Fudge also makes for a wonderful dessert to take to potlucks or holiday gatherings. Just pack it up in a pretty tin with some ribbons. Your friends and family will appreciate the thoughtful touch.
For a cozy weekend treat, serve your fudge with a side of warm apple cider or a glass of spiced eggnog. It not only pairs well but also enhances the festive vibes.
how to store Eggnog Fudge
Storing eggnog fudge is simple! Once it is completely cooled and cut into squares, place it in an airtight container. Be sure to separate the layers with parchment paper or waxed paper to keep them from sticking together. Properly stored, it can last up to two weeks at room temperature.
If you want it to stay fresh even longer, you can freeze the fudge. Just wrap each piece well in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply let the fudge thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours or at room temperature.
tips to make Eggnog Fudge
-
Use Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, don’t skimp on the quality of your eggnog and white chocolate chips. Fresh, high-quality ingredients can make a noticeable difference in taste.
-
Don’t Rush the Boiling: It’s important to allow the butter and sugar mix to reach the soft ball stage. This step ensures your fudge has that perfect chewy texture. Keep an eye on your thermometer and don’t rush it!
-
Be Patient When Cooling: Resist the urge to rush the cooling process. Allowing the fudge to cool at room temperature will help it set properly and develop its lovely texture. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
variation (if any)
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not add a splash of rum extract for a bit of extra flavor? This small addition will give your fudge a delightful twist that echoes the traditional flavors of holiday eggnog. You can also mix in crushed nuts or swap the white chocolate for milk chocolate chips for a richer taste.
Pro Tips for Success
-
Always Stir: When cooking the mixture, stirring is crucial. This prevents sugar from settling at the bottom and burning. A gentle and consistent stir will contribute to a smoother texture, no one likes a burnt taste!
-
Temperature Management: If your fudge mixture seems to be taking too long to reach temperature, ensure your heat isn’t too low. On the flip side, be careful not to turn the heat too high. This can cause the fudge to cook too quickly, leading to an undesired texture.
-
Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pot: Choosing a heavy bottomed saucepan will help distribute heat more evenly, reducing the risk of hot spots or burning. This is an essential tool for candy making!
Serving Ideas
-
Holiday Gift Giving: This fudge is perfect for gifting during the holidays. Package it in festive boxes or jars, tie with some twine or a holiday ribbon, and share the love with neighbors or friends.
-
Brunch Delight: Add a platter of eggnog fudge to your next brunch spread. It pairs beautifully with coffee or a warm bowl of oatmeal, bringing a touch of festive cheer to your morning.
-
Movie Night Treat: Make a cozy evening in even cozier by making a batch and enjoying it during your favorite holiday films. Snuggled up under a blanket with fudge in hand? Nothing beats that!
FAQs
-
Can I use non-alcoholic eggnog?
Yes, absolutely! Non-alcoholic eggnog works perfectly for this recipe and will give you all the cozy flavors you crave. -
What if I don’t have a candy thermometer?
You can test the soft ball stage by dropping a small amount of the mixture into cold water. If it forms a soft ball, you’re good to go! -
How can I tell if my fudge has set properly?
Once cooled, the fudge should feel firm to the touch. You should be able to cut it without it falling apart. If it’s too soft, it may need a bit more time to cool completely. -
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to use a larger pan and increase your cooking time slightly. Keep an eye on the temperature to ensure everything sets nicely.
Quick Recap
Making eggnog fudge is a delightful way to capture the essence of the holiday spirit. It’s simple, delicious, and a fun project to do with family or friends. So grab those ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the warm, sweet scents fill your kitchen. If you bake this weekend, you’ll be glad you did! Here’s to cozy moments and scrumptious treats!
Eggnog Fudge
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick) Unsalted butter recommended
- 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
- 3/4 cup eggnog (minus 2 tablespoons) Use high-quality eggnog for best flavor
- 2 cups sugar
- 11 ounces white chocolate chips Can substitute with milk chocolate for a richer taste
- 7 ounces marshmallow crème
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (and more for topping) Add more nutmeg for topping as desired
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation
- Line a 9x9 or 8x8 inch pan with aluminum foil and butter the foil.
Cooking
- Combine butter, eggnog, heavy cream, and sugar in a medium saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat while stirring occasionally.
- Once boiling, reduce heat slightly and cook until the mixture reaches 235°F (soft ball stage).
- Remove from heat and quickly stir in white chocolate chips until melted and well blended.
- Add marshmallow crème, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, spread evenly, and dust more nutmeg on top.
- Allow to cool completely at room temperature before cutting into squares.