Rich Hot Chocolate Fudge

This rich and creamy hot chocolate fudge captures the cozy essence of winter evenings in every bite. Blending semi sweet and milk chocolate chips with hot chocolate mix and miniature marshmallows, this treat is perfect for chocolate lovers craving a nostalgic twist on classic fudge. It’s simple to prepare but delivers a decadent flavor and beautiful texture that makes it a standout at holiday gatherings or a delightful snack to share with friends.

I first made this fudge on a chilly winter night when I wanted a quick and indulgent dessert. Since then, it has become a family favorite, especially when we want something extra special but easy to whip up.

Ingredients

• Semi sweet chocolate chips: I used Nestle brand for a deep, balanced chocolate flavor
• Milk chocolate chips: I chose Nestle brand to add creamy sweetness and richness
• Sweetened condensed milk: adds smoothness and helps bind the fudge while giving a luscious texture
• Hot chocolate mix: I used Nestle brand which intensifies the chocolate taste and adds a hint of warmth
• Salted butter: sliced into pats, which melts evenly and enriches the fudge with a slight savory contrast
• Pure vanilla extract: brings out the deeper flavors of the chocolate and adds a subtle aromatic note
• Miniature marshmallows: divided into two equal parts the first mix-in adds chewiness while the topping provides a soft, toasted finish
• For the chocolate drizzle
• Semi sweet chocolate chips: melt beautifully for drizzling
• Vegetable oil: helps the chocolate drizzle stay smooth and glossy without hardening too quickly

Instructions

Sculpt the Base:

Prepare your 8 by 8 inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper leaving extra overhang to easily lift the fudge out later. Secure the edges with clips to prevent paper folding and lightly spray the parchment with nonstick spray for easier removal.

Combine Your Chocolates and Milk:

Pour the semi sweet and milk chocolate chips together in a medium microwave safe bowl along with the sweetened condensed milk, hot chocolate mix, and pats of salted butter.

Melt and Stir:

Heat the mixture on full power for one minute then stir briskly. Continue microwaving in 45 second bursts stirring after each until the mixture is completely smooth and melted, this usually takes between two and three minutes. This careful melting prevents burning and ensures the fudge’s silky texture.

Add Vanilla and Marshmallows:

Stir in pure vanilla extract thoroughly to blend the flavors. Next fold in two cups of the miniature marshmallows until they are evenly incorporated into the chocolate mixture. These marshmallows add chewy texture contrast inside the fudge.

Microwave Briefly:

Heat the mixture again for 20 to 30 seconds and stir two to three times to soften the marshmallows and meld everything into a cohesive fudge base.

Pour and Spread:

Transfer the fudge into the prepared dish and use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly.

Top with Marshmallows:

Sprinkle the remaining two cups of miniature marshmallows evenly over the fudge surface and press them gently so they stick.

Chill and Set:

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about two hours until the fudge is firm.

Lift and Unmold:

Once set, remove the binder clips and use the parchment overhang to lift the fudge carefully out of the dish onto a cutting board.

Prepare the Drizzle:

In a small microwave safe bowl heat the semi sweet chocolate chips with the vegetable oil for 30 seconds then stir until smooth and shiny.

Drizzle and Finish:

Using a spoon or small piping tool drizzle the melted chocolate over the marshmallows. Let the drizzle firm up before cutting the fudge into 25 equal pieces using a sharp kitchen knife.

Store Your Fudge:

Store your fudge in the refrigerator until ready to serve so it stays fresh and retains its perfect chewy and gooey texture.

My favorite ingredient here is the hot chocolate mix which gives the fudge that unmistakable cozy flavor twist. The first time I shared this fudge at a family gathering, the marshmallow topping was a huge hit with the kids who loved pulling them off before eating. It always brings back warm memories of winter nights and laughter.

Storage Tips

Keep the fudge refrigerated in an airtight container to maintain its chewy texture and prevent the marshmallows from drying out. It will last for about one week this way. For longer storage, you can freeze it wrapped tightly in parchment and foil for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator for best results.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want to avoid processed hot chocolate mix you can use cocoa powder with a little sugar instead. Coconut oil can replace vegetable oil for the drizzle giving a slightly different flavor. Unsalted butter works too but add a pinch of salt to balance sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Cut into small squares to serve with coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. Add a cup of warm milk or espresso for deeper indulgence. They also make perfect holiday gifts wrapped in decorative tins or boxes.

This hot chocolate fudge is the perfect cozy treat for winter and a guaranteed crowd pleaser at any gathering.

FAQs about Recipes

→ What types of chocolate are used in this fudge?

Semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips blend together to create a balanced, rich flavor base.

→ How do marshmallows affect the texture?

Miniature marshmallows add a soft, chewy texture inside the fudge and a delicate topping contrast.

→ Why is sweetened condensed milk included?

It contributes to the creamy consistency and enhances the fudge's sweetness without graininess.

→ Can the chocolate drizzle be customized?

Yes, the drizzle combines semi-sweet chocolate with vegetable oil to create a smooth topping that can be adjusted for thickness.

→ What is the best way to set the fudge?

Chilling the fudge in the refrigerator for at least two hours allows it to firm up for easy cutting and serving.