Easy Christmas Eggnog Fudge Recipe | Ultimate Holiday Treat

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The smell of nutmeg in December always pulls me right back to my grandmother’s kitchen. The tree would sparkle in the corner, and she’d hum quietly while stirring her pot of fudge. This easy Christmas eggnog fudge recipe captures that same cozy magic creamy, rich, and full of holiday warmth yet it comes together in under 40 minutes. With simple ingredients and a little temperature know-how, you’ll have a melt-in-your-mouth treat ready for sharing or gifting.

Why This Easy Eggnog Fudge Works

Fast, Festive, and Foolproof

This recipe uses pantry staples and a single saucepan, which means minimal cleanup. Because the ingredients melt and mix in stages, you avoid graininess and get consistent results every time. Even better, the process is quick enough to fit between wrapping presents and watching your favorite Christmas movie.

Perfect Texture and Classic Holiday Flavor

When done right, this fudge sets beautifully soft and creamy, never dry or crumbly. The nutmeg and vanilla infuse a subtle warmth that balances the sweetness, making it a classic winter treat that tastes like a bite of eggnog.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays an important role in building that perfect texture and holiday taste. Butter adds richness, while sugar provides sweetness and structure. Full-fat eggnog gives the creamy base its signature flavor. Real white chocolate chips melt into a silky smooth blend. Marshmallow fluff keeps everything soft and prevents crystallization. Vanilla brings sweetness into balance, and ground nutmeg adds that signature holiday spice. Always choose real white chocolate containing cocoa butter, not candy melts, to guarantee a smooth finish.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Christmas Eggnog Fudge

Prep Your Pan and Tools

Line a square baking pan with foil and grease it well to make sure the fudge lifts out easily. A candy thermometer is essential here it ensures your sugar mixture reaches exactly 234°F, the sweet spot for smooth, creamy fudge.

Cook the Fudge Base

Combine butter, sugar, and eggnog in a medium saucepan. Stir often while the mixture heats. Once it reaches a rolling boil, clip on your thermometer. Keep boiling until the temperature hits 234°F. Avoid stirring too much during this stage, as overmixing can make the fudge grainy.

Melt, Mix, and Pour

Remove from heat. Immediately stir in white chocolate chips until completely melted and smooth. Then fold in marshmallow fluff, vanilla, and nutmeg. The mixture should look thick, shiny, and creamy. Pour it into your prepared pan and smooth the top gently with a spatula. For a festive touch, sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg on top.

Cooling and Cutting

Let the fudge cool at room temperature for 2–3 hours. Once set, lift it out of the pan using the foil edges and cut it into clean squares. Avoid chilling before cutting it’s easier to slice when the fudge is still slightly soft.

Smooth and creamy eggnog fudge sprinkled with nutmeg a perfect Christmas treat.

Tips for Best Results

Choosing the Right White Chocolate

Always use real white chocolate made with cocoa butter. Avoid candy melts or white baking chips, which can lead to a waxy texture. If you’re using chocolate bars, chop them finely so they melt evenly.

Avoiding Grainy or Gritty Fudge

Don’t over-stir the sugar mixture as it boils. Hitting that exact 234°F mark is key too hot and it becomes dry; too cool and it won’t set properly.

Flavor and Texture Adjustments

For a stronger holiday aroma, add a bit more nutmeg or a pinch of cinnamon. If you prefer a softer fudge, reduce the cook time slightly or add an extra tablespoon of marshmallow fluff.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Eggnog Alternatives

If you’re out of eggnog, mix 3/4 cup heavy cream with 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. This blend mimics that classic flavor and texture perfectly.

Flavor Twists

Try a cinnamon swirl by gently folding in a teaspoon of cinnamon before pouring into the pan. Or, for a grown-up version, add a splash of rum extract for a subtle eggnog cocktail note.

How to Know When Eggnog Fudge Is Done

You’ll know the fudge is ready when it reaches 234–236°F or when a small drop forms a soft ball in cold water. Once poured, it should firm up at room temperature within 2–3 hours. When fully set, it should slice cleanly and hold its shape but still feel tender to the touch.

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

Keep your fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to two weeks or freeze it for up to three months. Always let chilled or frozen fudge come back to room temperature before serving to bring back its creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the secret to making good fudge?

Consistent heat control and minimal stirring are key. Use a thermometer and stop boiling at the right temperature for the smoothest texture.

How to make eggnog for Christmas?

Traditional eggnog combines milk, cream, eggs, sugar, and a hint of nutmeg or rum. For a shortcut, store-bought full-fat eggnog works beautifully in this recipe.

What are the three ingredients in fudge?

Classic fudge typically includes sugar, butter, and milk (or cream). This version adds white chocolate, marshmallow fluff, and eggnog for festive flavor.

How to make simple fudge at home?

All you need is a pot, a thermometer, and the right ratio of sugar, butter, and chocolate. Follow the steps above, and you’ll get smooth, creamy fudge every time.

More Such Recipes

Stacked creamy eggnog fudge squares with nutmeg on parchment
Soft, creamy eggnog fudge squares stacked high with a festive nutmeg sprinkle.

Conclusion or Final Thoughts

This easy Christmas eggnog fudge recipe brings the holidays to life in every creamy bite. It’s quick enough for busy days yet elegant enough for your dessert table. Wrap a few squares in parchment and ribbon for thoughtful gifts, or keep a tray for yourself either way, it’s pure Christmas comfort. For more festive inspiration, follow us on Pinterest or join our kitchen community on Facebook.

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Creamy eggnog fudge squares with nutmeg on parchment paper

Easy Christmas Eggnog Fudge Recipe | Ultimate Holiday Treat


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  • Author: kai
  • Total Time: 25–40 minutes
  • Yield: 1 large batch (about 36 squares) 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Creamy, festive, and easy to make, this Easy Christmas Eggnog Fudge Recipe delivers a rich white chocolate flavor with nutmeg warmth  perfect for gifting or serving on your holiday dessert table.


Ingredients

Scale

1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

12 oz white chocolate chips

1 jar marshmallow fluff

1 3/4 cups granulated sugar

3/4 cup full-fat eggnog

2 tsp pure vanilla extract

1/2 cup unsalted butter


Instructions

1. Line a square pan with foil and grease it to prevent sticking.

2. In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine butter, sugar, and eggnog. Stir often and bring to a boil until the mixture reaches exactly 234°F using a candy thermometer.

3. Remove from heat and stir in white chocolate chips until fully melted and smooth.

4. Quickly mix in marshmallow fluff, vanilla, and nutmeg until thick and evenly blended.

5. Pour into the prepared pan, smooth the top, and optionally sprinkle more nutmeg.

6. Let it cool at room temperature until firm, then lift out, cut into squares, and serve.

Notes

Use real white chocolate containing cocoa butter for proper texture.

Do not substitute candy melts.

If using bar chocolate, chop it finely before melting.

Marshmallow fluff is essential for smooth consistency — do not replace unless necessary.

If needed, substitute eggnog with a mix of 3/4 cup heavy cream, 1/4 tsp each nutmeg and cinnamon, and 1 tsp vanilla.

Do not stir mixture too much during boiling to avoid grainy texture.

Let the fudge cool at room temperature before cutting to avoid crumbling.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 square
  • Calories: Not provided
  • Sugar: Not provided
  • Sodium: Not provided
  • Fat: Not provided
  • Saturated Fat: Not provided
  • Unsaturated Fat: Not provided
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: Not provided
  • Fiber: Not provided
  • Protein: Not provided
  • Cholesterol: Not provided

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