When the holidays approach, nothing spreads cheer quite like a beautifully wrapped box of homemade holiday fudge. Moreover, these four incredible fudge recipes are perfect for creating stunning gift boxes. Furthermore, each recipe is surprisingly simple, using basic ingredients you probably already have. Additionally, from classic Fantasy Fudge to creamy Peanut Butter, festive Eggnog, and smooth Vanilla, this collection covers all your holiday candy needs.
Why These Four Fudge Recipes Are Essential
I’ve been making these exact four fudge recipes every Christmas for over twelve years. Initially, I started with just Fantasy Fudge from my grandmother. However, over time, I added the other varieties to create the ultimate fudge gift box. Consequently, my neighbors, coworkers, and family now expect these fudge boxes every year.
Four Beautiful Fudge Varieties
Picture this appetizing display against a festive holiday background: rich chocolate Fantasy Fudge studded with walnuts, golden Peanut Butter Fudge wrapped with ribbon, creamy white Eggnog Fudge dusted with nutmeg, and smooth Vanilla Fudge in neat squares. Together, these four varieties create the ultimate holiday gift box.
Fantasy Fudge Recipe (Classic Chocolate Walnut)
Ingredients
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- ⅔ cup evaporated milk
- 16 tablespoons margarine or butter
- 1 (12 oz) package semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 (7 oz) jar marshmallow creme
- 1 teaspoon vanilla + 1 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
First, line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment. Then, combine sugar, evaporated milk, and margarine in heavy saucepan. Bring to rolling boil, stirring constantly, and cook for 5 minutes. Subsequently, remove from heat and add chocolate chips, stirring until melted. Then, add marshmallow creme, vanilla, and walnuts. Finally, pour into pan and refrigerate until firm.
Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 cups sugar + 1 can evaporated milk + ⅓ cup corn syrup
- 1 stick butter + 8 oz peanut butter + 1 tsp vanilla
Instructions
First, combine sugar, milk, corn syrup, and butter. Then, bring to rolling boil and cook 5 minutes. Next, stir in peanut butter and vanilla until smooth. Finally, pour into prepared pan and refrigerate.
Eggnog Fudge Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ cup butter + ¾ cup eggnog + 2 cups sugar
- 12 oz white chocolate chips + 7 oz marshmallow creme
- ½ tsp nutmeg + 2 tsp vanilla
Instructions
First, combine butter, eggnog, and sugar. Then, boil for 5 minutes. Next, add white chocolate, marshmallow creme, nutmeg, and vanilla. Finally, pour into pan and dust with nutmeg.
Vanilla Fudge Recipe
Ingredients
- 1½ cups white chocolate chips + 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk + 1 tbsp vanilla
Instructions
First, melt white chocolate with condensed milk over low heat, stirring constantly. Then, remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Finally, pour into pan and refrigerate until set.
Essential Tips
- First, use heavy-bottomed saucepans to prevent burning.
- Additionally, line pans with parchment overhanging the sides for easy removal.
- Furthermore, stir constantly while cooking to prevent scorching.
- Finally, for gift boxes, cut fudge into uniform pieces and place in mini paper cups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my fudge grainy?
Grainy fudge results from undissolved sugar or stirring while cooling. Therefore, make sure all sugar dissolves during cooking and avoid stirring once removed from heat.
How do I store homemade fudge?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, refrigerated for 1 month, or frozen for 3 months. Place wax paper between layers.
Conclusion: Create Ultimate Gift Boxes
These four holiday fudge recipes are all you need to create impressive homemade gift boxes. Moreover, by making all four varieties, you offer something for every taste. Furthermore, each recipe is straightforward and forgiving. So this holiday season, skip the store-bought candy and create something truly special!