If you adore the classic flavors of sugar cookies but yearn for something soft, rich, and luxurious, then Sugar Cookie Fudge is your newest sweet obsession. With all the nostalgia of biting into a freshly baked sugar cookie, this easy fudge recipe transforms your favorite festive flavors into creamy, melt-in-your-mouth squares. Best of all, you only need a handful of ingredients and almost zero effort—just a bit of mixing, melting, and chilling, and you’ll have a platter of irresistible fudge that looks just as cheerful as it tastes. Whether you’re prepping treats for the holidays, gifting, or simply satisfying a late-night craving, Sugar Cookie Fudge brings joy to every occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s something magical about how a few simple ingredients come together to create the festive deliciousness of Sugar Cookie Fudge. Each component is chosen to add just the right sweetness, creaminess, and that familiar cookie flavor you love.
- White chocolate chips: Deliver rich, creamy sweetness and help the fudge set perfectly.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds luxurious silkiness and ensures each bite melts on your tongue.
- Vanilla extract: Offers that comforting, classic cookie aroma no sugar cookie treat is complete without.
- Almond extract (optional): A little goes a long way to give your fudge an extra boost of nostalgia (highly recommended for an old-fashioned touch).
- Sugar cookie mix (dry): The secret ingredient that infuses every square with true sugar cookie flavor.
- Unsalted butter: Brings richness and smoothness so your fudge is never grainy.
- Festive sprinkles (optional, for topping): Instantly transform your fudge into a celebration; perfect for holidays or any special day.
How to Make Sugar Cookie Fudge
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, making sure there’s some extra paper hanging over the sides for easy removal. This little trick makes cutting and serving the Sugar Cookie Fudge a total breeze later on.
Step 2: Melt and Mix the Base
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine your white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter. Stir gently and constantly as the white chocolate melts. This combo is the heart of the fudge’s creamy texture—just keep your heat low and slow to avoid burning or seizing the chocolate.
Step 3: Infuse with Cookie Flavors
As soon as the mixture is silky smooth, remove your saucepan from the heat. Quickly add in the dry sugar cookie mix, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if you love that classic bakery taste). Stir everything together vigorously—this is where that unmistakable sugar cookie magic happens!
Step 4: Pour and Smooth
Immediately pour the fudge mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth the top evenly. If you’re feeling extra festive, sprinkle colorful sprinkles on top now for a picture-perfect finish. For a funfetti vibe, gently fold some sprinkles right into the mixture before pouring.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Pop your pan into the refrigerator and let the magic happen for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is fully set and firm to the touch. The waiting is the hardest part, but your patience will be rewarded!
Step 6: Slice and Share
Once your Sugar Cookie Fudge has set, use the parchment overhang to lift it out of the pan. Cut into bite-size squares with a sharp knife. Now all that’s left is to arrange them on a pretty platter and enjoy with your favorite people!
How to Serve Sugar Cookie Fudge
Garnishes
A generous scatter of holiday sprinkles over the top is always a winner, especially for Christmas or birthday parties. You can also add a tiny dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of melted white chocolate, or even a few edible gold stars for an elegant touch. The more whimsical the topping, the more dazzling your Sugar Cookie Fudge presentation!
Side Dishes
This fudge is delightfully sweet, so pair it with something to balance things out. A robust cup of coffee, espresso, or unsweetened hot cocoa makes an excellent companion. If you’re serving a dessert board, try adding tart fresh berries or salty roasted nuts for variety and contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For gift-giving, nestle squares of Sugar Cookie Fudge in decorative tins or cellophane bags tied with ribbons—it’s irresistible as a homemade treat for friends! At parties, arrange pieces in mini paper cupcake liners for easy grab-and-go portions, or stack them in glass jars for a charming holiday centerpiece. Feel like having some fun? Use festive cookie cutters to shape the fudge into trees, stars, or hearts for an extra-special twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your fudge super fresh by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Each piece keeps its texture and flavor for up to a week—honestly, though, it rarely lasts that long in my house! Layer parchment or wax paper between layers to keep the squares from sticking.
Freezing
Sugar Cookie Fudge freezes beautifully for up to two months. Cut the fudge into squares first, then wrap each piece in plastic wrap and pop them into a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving, and your fudge will be just as dreamy as the day you made it.
Reheating
There’s really no need to reheat Sugar Cookie Fudge since it’s meant to be enjoyed cold and creamy straight from the fridge. If you do want it a little softer, let the squares sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. The texture becomes even more melt-in-your-mouth!
FAQs
Can I use white baking chocolate instead of chips?
Absolutely! Just be sure to chop the baking chocolate into small, even pieces so it melts smoothly and evenly. The result is every bit as luscious.
Is it necessary to include almond extract?
No, the almond extract is totally optional, but it does give Sugar Cookie Fudge that unmistakable old-fashioned bakery vibe. If you’re not a fan or don’t have any on hand, simply leave it out—the fudge will still be delicious!
What can I do if I don’t have sugar cookie mix?
If you don’t have boxed sugar cookie mix, try substituting with equal parts all-purpose flour and powdered sugar, plus a pinch of salt. While it won’t have quite the same flavor, it’ll get you surprisingly close for a last-minute treat.
How do I avoid grainy fudge?
The key is to melt your chocolate and butter gently over low heat and stir constantly until perfectly smooth. Also, make sure your sugar cookie mix is stirred in quickly and thoroughly, so everything stays silky without lumps.
Can I add mix-ins beyond sprinkles?
Definitely! Mini chocolate chips, toasted chopped nuts, or even a swirl of raspberry or strawberry jam can make your Sugar Cookie Fudge extra special and totally your own. Just be sure mix-ins are fully incorporated for the best texture and appearance.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a cheerful, crowd-pleasing treat that’s as beautiful as it is simple, look no further than Sugar Cookie Fudge. This recipe never fails to brighten up any table and bring out big smiles from anyone who tries it. Go ahead, give it a try—you’ll be surprised how quickly this sweet tradition becomes a favorite in your home, too!
