Easter Fudge: Delicious Recipes to Celebrate the Holiday

Easter Fudge is a delightful treat that brings joy and sweetness to the holiday season. As we gather with family and friends to celebrate, this rich and creamy confection has become a beloved staple on many dessert tables. The history of fudge dates back to the late 19th century, but it has evolved over the years to include festive variations that capture the spirit of Easter. People adore this Easter Fudge not only for its luscious taste and velvety texture but also for its convenience; it’s a simple recipe that can be whipped up in no time, making it perfect for busy holiday preparations. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or simply indulge in a sweet moment, this Easter Fudge is sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 1 cup chopped nuts (optional, I love pecans or walnuts)
• 1 cup pastel-colored M&M’s or chocolate eggs for decoration
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional, for a fun texture)
• Cooking spray or parchment paper for lining the pan

Preparing the Fudge Mixture

1. Start by gathering all your ingredients. It’s always easier to have everything ready before you begin cooking. This way, you won’t be scrambling around looking for something while your fudge is melting!
2. Next, line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly spray it with cooking spray. This will help prevent the fudge from sticking and make it easier to remove once it’s set.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter. Place the saucepan over low heat. Stir the mixture continuously with a spatula or wooden spoon to ensure that the chocolate melts evenly and doesn’t burn. This process usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
4. Once the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt. This will enhance the flavor of the fudge and balance the sweetness.
5. Now, it’s time to fold in the mini marshmallows and chopped nuts (if you’re using them). Gently mix until the marshmallows are evenly distributed throughout the fudge mixture. The marshmallows will add a delightful chewy texture to the fudge.
6. If you’re using shredded coconut, fold it in at this stage as well. It adds a lovely tropical flavor and a bit of chewiness that complements the chocolate perfectly.

Setting the Fudge

7. Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly into the corners and smooth the top. This will help ensure that every piece of fudge is uniform in thickness.
8. Now, sprinkle the pastel-colored M&M’s or chocolate eggs on top of the fudge. Press them down gently into the surface so they stick. This not only adds a pop of color but also makes the fudge look festive for Easter!
9. Once you’ve added the toppings, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in the refrigerator to set for at least 2-3 hours, or until the fudge is firm to the touch. If you’re in a hurry, you can also place it in the freezer for about 30-45 minutes.

Cutting and Serving the Fudge

10. After the fudge has set, remove it from the refrigerator. Lift the fudge out of the baking dish using the edges of the parchment paper. Place it on a cutting board.
11. Using a sharp knife, cut the fudge into small squares or rectangles. I usually aim for about 1-inch pieces, but you can make them larger or smaller depending on your preference.
12. Once cut, you can serve the fudge immediately or store it in an airtight container. If you’re storing it, make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
13. This fudge can be kept in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, but I doubt it will last that long because it’s so delicious!

Tips for Perfect Easter Fudge

• For a creamier fudge, you can add a splash of heavy cream to the mixture while it’s melting. This will give it a richer texture.
• If you want to experiment with flavors, try adding a teaspoon of almond extract instead of vanilla for a different twist.
• Feel free to swap out the nuts for your favorite mix-ins, like crushed Oreos, peanut butter chips, or even dried fruit for a unique flavor.
• For a fun presentation, you can drizzle

  Conclusion:

  In summary, this Easter Fudge recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to add a delightful touch to their holiday celebrations. The creamy texture, rich chocolate flavor, and vibrant colors make it not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, attending a potluck, or simply indulging in a sweet moment at home, this fudge is sure to impress. For serving suggestions, consider cutting the fudge into fun shapes using cookie cutters to match the Easter theme, or package it in decorative boxes as thoughtful gifts for friends and family. You can also experiment with variations by adding different mix-ins like crushed cookies, nuts, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra flavor kick. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Easter Fudge recipe a try and share your experience with me. I would love to hear how it turned out for you and any creative twists you added. Remember, the joy of cooking is not just in the final product but also in the memories we create along the way. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s make this Easter unforgettable with some delicious homemade fudge! Print

  Easter Fudge: Delicious Recipes to Celebrate the Holiday

  Print Recipe

  Enjoy a rich and creamy Chocolate Marshmallow Fudge, featuring a delightful mix of semi-sweet chocolate, fluffy marshmallows, and colorful M&M’s. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for any celebration, especially during the holidays!

  • Author: Dottie
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 145 minutes
  • Yield: 16 servings 1x

  Ingredients

  Scale 1x2x3x

  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup mini marshmallows
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
  • 1/2 cup pastel-colored M&M’s or Easter-themed candies
  • 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional, for decoration)
  • Cooking spray or parchment paper (for lining the pan)

  Instructions

  1. Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. This will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter. Place the saucepan over low heat.
  3. Stir the mixture continuously with a wooden spoon or a silicone spatula to prevent the chocolate from burning and ensure a smooth consistency.
  4. Once the chocolate chips and butter have melted completely, and the mixture is smooth, remove the saucepan from the heat.
  5. Add the vanilla extract and salt to the melted chocolate mixture. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
  6. Gently fold in the mini marshmallows and chopped nuts (if using) into the chocolate mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
  7. Add the pastel-colored M&M’s or your choice of Easter-themed candies for a festive look and delightful crunch.
  8. If using shredded coconut for decoration, fold it in now or save it for the top later.
  9. Line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. Alternatively, lightly spray the pan with cooking spray.
  10. Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the top.
  11. If saved, sprinkle the shredded coconut evenly over the top of the fudge.
  12. Cover the pan with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 2 hours, or until firm to the touch.
  13. While the fudge is chilling, clean up your workspace and enjoy a little treat from the leftover chocolate mixture in the saucepan!
  14. Once set, remove the fudge from the refrigerator using the overhanging parchment paper.
  15. Place the fudge on a cutting board and cut it into small squares or rectangles.
  16. Arrange the fudge pieces on a serving platter or in a decorative box for gifting. Add additional M&M’s or coconut on top for decoration if desired.
  17. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Refrigerate for longer shelf life, allowing it to come to room temperature before serving.
  18. For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight when ready to enjoy.

  Notes

  • Feel free to customize the fudge with your favorite mix-ins or toppings.
  • Ensure to stir continuously while melting to achieve a smooth texture.