If Christmas had a flavor, this creamy Eggnog Fudge would be it. It’s rich, spiced just right, and melts in your mouth with every bite. Perfect for gifting or treating your family, even on your busiest days.
Unlike some eggnog fudge recipes, mine nails that perfect balance of sweetness and spice with real eggnog and a pinch of nutmeg. Plus, it’s foolproof, so you can whip it up in no time and still feel like you made something special for the ones you love.
When the holidays roll around, the flavors of eggnog always seem to bring back those warm, nostalgic memories. But let’s face it, as much as you love the taste of eggnog, drinking it isn’t always practical. That’s where this Eggnog Fudge comes in. It transforms everything you love about eggnog—the creamy texture, the cozy spices—into a bite sized, easy-to-make treat that feels just as festive.
This recipe is perfect for when you want to make something that feels special but doesn’t require a lot of effort. It’s simple enough to whip up during a busy week but impressive enough to gift or serve at your next holiday gathering. You’ll get all the holiday cheer with none of the stress.
Why you’ll love this eggnog fudge recipe
This fudge is the perfect holiday treat when you want something festive without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s creamy, rich, and packed with the classic flavors of eggnog, making it a simple but impressive dessert to share with your family and friends. And because it’s made with just a handful of ingredients, its super easy to whip up.
What makes this fudge extra special? It strikes the perfect balance between sweet and spiced, with a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s absolutely irresistible. Plus, it sets up perfectly in the fridge, so you don’t have to worry about it being too soft or too firm. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or packing it up as a gift, this fudge will definitely be the star of the show.
Ingredients you’ll need
- Sugar, Butter, and Eggnog: These form the base of the fudge, creating a creamy and perfectly sweet texture with that signature holiday flavor.
- White Chocolate Chips: The smooth, melt-in-your-mouth foundation of this fudge.
- Marshmallow Creme: Adds the perfect fluffiness and helps the fudge set.
- Vanilla and Rum Extracts: The vanilla enhances the creamy sweetness, while a touch of rum extract gives it that classic eggnog flavor.
- Ground Nutmeg and Cinnamon: These spices bring the warm, festive notes that make this fudge taste like Christmas.
How to make Old Fashioned Eggnog Fudge
This is way easier to make than you might think! Here’s how it all comes together:
First, you’ll prep your pan. Just line an 8×8-inch dish with parchment paper or foil, making sure to leave a little overhang so it’s easy to pull the fudge out later. Give it a quick spray with non-stick spray, and you’re good to go.
Next, grab a saucepan and stir together the sugar, butter, and eggnog over medium heat. Once the butter melts, the mixture will start bubbling away. Attach a candy thermometer (don’t skip this step!), and let it boil until it hits 234°F. This only takes a few minutes, so keep stirring to make sure nothing sticks.
Take the pan off the heat and stir in all the flavor boosters: vanilla, rum extract, nutmeg, cinnamon, and marshmallow creme. Keep stirring until everything is smooth and creamy. Then, toss in the white chocolate chips and stir them until it’s smooth and melted.
Pour the fudge into your prepared pan, smoothing it out with a spatula if needed. If you want, give the pan a little tap on the counter to get rid of any bubbles. Let it cool at room temp for about an hour, then pop it in the fridge to finish setting.
Once it’s firm, use the parchment overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan. Slice it into squares and dust it with a little extra nutmeg if you’re feeling fancy. That’s it! It’s ready to share or keep all to yourself (no judgment here!).
Pro tips for perfect fudge
Making fudge might sound tricky, but with these tips, you’ll nail it every time.
- Don’t skip the candy thermometer. It’s the key to getting the right texture. It takes out all the guesswork.
- Prep before you start. Fudge comes together quickly, so have your pan lined and all your ingredients measured out before turning on the stove.
- Keep stirring. When boiling the sugar, butter, and eggnog, stir constantly to prevent sticking or scorching. It’s worth the arm workout!
- Room temperature matters! Let the fudge cool to room temperature before chilling it in the fridge. This helps it set evenly and prevents it from getting grainy.
- Cut clean squares. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for those perfect, bakery-style pieces.
Top Tip
For perfectly creamy fudge, make sure to reach the exact temperature of 234°F when boiling the sugar, butter, and eggnog. Too low, and your fudge might not set; too high, and it could become grainy. A candy thermometer takes out all the guesswork and ensures you get that perfect, melt-in-your-mouth texture every time!
How to store Eggnog Fudge
Keeping your fudge fresh and delicious is easy!
Room Temperature: If you’re planning to enjoy it within a few days, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Just keep it in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight or heat.
Refrigerator (recommended): For longer storage, pop it in the fridge. This will keep it fresh for up to 2 weeks. Make sure it’s in an airtight container or tightly wrapped so it doesn’t absorb any other fridge flavors.
Freezer: Yes, you can freeze fudge! Wrap the pieces individually in wax or parchment paper, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just let the fudge thaw in the fridge or at room temperature.
FAQs
Absolutely! Homemade eggnog works great and gives the fudge an even richer flavor. Just make sure it’s thick and creamy.
If you don’t have a candy thermometer, you can test for the “soft ball stage” by dropping a small spoonful of the mixture into cold water. If it forms a soft ball that holds it’s shape but flattens slightly when pressed, you’re good to go!
Of course! The rum extract is optional and just adds a traditional eggnog flavor. You can skip it without affecting the texture of the fudge.
The key is reaching the right temperature (234°F) and stirring constantly while the mixture boils. Cooling the fudge at room temperature before chilling also helps create that smooth, creamy texture.
Definitely! Eggnog Fudge is perfect for gifting. It stores well in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or in the freezer for up to 3 months, so you can prep ahead of the holiday rush.
How to serve fudge
This is such a great treat for the holidays. Here’s a few fun ways to enjoy it:
- Holiday Dessert Table: Add it to your spread alongside your cookies, pies, and other desserts.
- Gift Giving: Pack the fudge in holiday tins or boxes, and you’ve got a thoughtful, homemade gift that feels extra special.
- After-Dinner Treat: Serve small squares of this fudge with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy end to the holiday meal.
- Festive Party Favor: Wrap individual pieces in wax paper, tie them with a ribbon, and hand them out as party favors or stocking stuffers!
More Christmas dessert recipes you might like
If you make this recipe and love it, we would love a 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating! It helps us continue to provide free recipes.
Share on Facebook
Share
Eggnog Fudge Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup eggnog store-bought or homemade
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg plus extra for garnish, optional
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 7 ounces marshmallow creme
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1/4 teaspoon rum extract optional, for a traditional eggnog flavor
Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or foil, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease with non-stick spray or butter.
- In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, butter, and eggnog. Place over medium heat and stir constantly until the butter melts and the mixture begins to boil.
- Attach a candy thermometer to the saucepan. Continue stirring as the mixture boils and reaches 234°F (soft ball stage). This will take about 4-5 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in vanilla extract, rum extract (if using), nutmeg, cinnamon, and marshmallow creme. Stir until smooth and fully combined.
- Add the white chocolate chips to the mixture and stir until completely melted and smooth.
- Pour the fudge into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and gently tap the pan on the counter to release any air bubbles.
- Let the fudge cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then transfer it to the refrigerator for 2-3 hours to set completely.
- Once the fudge is firm, use the parchment or foil overhang to lift it out of the pan. Cut into small squares and dust with extra nutmeg if desired.
Video
Notes
- Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- For longer storage, wrap individual pieces and freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
