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This rich hot chocolate swirled fudge combines the comfort of your favorite winter drink with the indulgence of a no-bake dessert. The irresistible combination of chocolate, Nutella, and marshmallow fluff creates the perfect treat for chocolate lovers or holiday gatherings.
I first made this fudge during a holiday movie marathon with my children. The delighted expressions on their faces as they took their first bites convinced me this needed to become our new winter tradition. Now we make a batch whenever we need a special chocolate treat.
Ingredients
- Semi Sweet Chocolate Chips: provide the perfect base for this fudge with just the right sweetness level make sure to use high quality chips for the smoothest texture
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: acts as both the sweetener and binding agent giving the fudge its signature smooth consistency
- Vanilla Extract: enhances the chocolate flavor with subtle warmth choose pure rather than imitation for best results
- Butter: adds richness and helps create that melt-in-your-mouth texture unsalted works best
- Marshmallow Spread: creates those classic hot chocolate vibes and adds visual appeal with its swirled pattern
- Nutella Spread: brings a hazelnut dimension that elevates this fudge beyond ordinary chocolate varieties
How To Make Hot Chocolate Swirled Fudge
- Prepare the chocolate base:
- Place the chocolate chips and butter in a microwave safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals stirring between each until completely melted and smooth. This should take about 2 minutes total. Be careful not to overheat as chocolate can scorch easily.
- Incorporate the binding ingredients:
- Add the vanilla extract and sweetened condensed milk to the melted chocolate mixture. Stir thoroughly until everything is well combined and the mixture has a glossy appearance. The condensed milk will give the fudge its signature smooth texture.
- Transfer to baking dish:
- Line your square baking dish with parchment paper making sure to leave some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared dish and use a spatula to spread it evenly reaching all corners.
- Create the swirl effect:
- Drop spoonfuls of Nutella and marshmallow spread randomly across the top of the chocolate mixture. Use about 6 to 8 dollops of each for the best visual effect. Take a toothpick or skewer and gently drag it through the toppings and chocolate in a figure eight motion to create beautiful swirls without overmixing.
- Chill until set:
- Place the dish in the refrigerator and allow the fudge to set completely for at least 3 hours or overnight for best results. The patience will be worth it when you have perfectly firm fudge.
- Slice and serve:
- Once fully set lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Place on a cutting board and cut into 1-inch squares with a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for the neatest edges.
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The marshmallow swirl is what makes this recipe truly special to me. It reminds me of winters growing up when my grandmother would make us hot chocolate with marshmallows floating on top after we came in from playing in the snow. That first bite of fudge instantly transports me back to her cozy kitchen.
Storage Tips
Store your finished fudge in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. It will stay fresh at room temperature for about a week or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage you can freeze the fudge for up to three months. Simply wrap individual pieces or the whole block tightly in plastic wrap then aluminum foil before placing in a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
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Creative Variations
This recipe is wonderfully versatile. Try swapping the semisweet chocolate for white chocolate and adding crushed candy canes for a peppermint twist. During fall replace the Nutella with pumpkin butter and add a sprinkle of cinnamon for autumn fudge. For coffee lovers add a tablespoon of espresso powder to the base chocolate mixture. You could also mix in crushed cookies chopped nuts or dried fruits to create your own signature version that matches your family preferences.
Gifting Ideas
This fudge makes a thoughtful homemade gift that impresses without hours in the kitchen. Cut into squares and place in decorative tins lined with colorful parchment paper. For a more elaborate presentation stack fudge pieces in clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbon and attach a handwritten gift tag with the recipe name. During the holidays I often make triple batches to create gift platters alongside other favorite treats. Friends always ask for the recipe which I consider the highest compliment.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I create smooth fudge texture?
Ensure the chocolate and butter are melted completely and evenly before mixing with the other ingredients. Stir thoroughly to avoid lumps.
- → Can I substitute marshmallow fluff?
Yes, you can substitute marshmallow fluff with softened marshmallows or leave it out for a simpler version.
- → How do I evenly swirl Nutella and marshmallow?
Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the toppings into the fudge. Avoid overmixing to maintain distinct swirls.
- → How long does the fudge take to set?
The fudge typically needs about 3 hours in the refrigerator to fully set and achieve the ideal texture.
- → What is the best way to store the fudge?
Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.