Marbled Holiday Fudge

Featured in Sweet Delights for Every Occasion.

This marbled peppermint fudge starts with a classic base of sugar, butter, and cream cooked to soft ball stage. Take it off the heat and stir in white chocolate and marshmallow creme until everything’s smooth. Now for the fun part—divide the mixture in half and tint one portion red. Pour both colors into your pan and swirl them together with a knife for that pretty marbled look. The key is not over-mixing or you'll lose the distinct swirls. Let it set up completely before cutting into squares. It’s the perfect festive treat for holiday gatherings or gifting.
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Updated on Thu, 16 Jan 2025 00:54:30 GMT
A collection of vividly swirled red and white fudge cubes arranged closely together. Pin it
A collection of vividly swirled red and white fudge cubes arranged closely together. | cookingkeys.com

This recipe emerged from a post-holiday confectionery exploration, combining premium white chocolate with sophisticated red velvet elements. The initial development focused on achieving the perfect balance between visual appeal and refined taste, transforming simple ingredients into an elegant dessert. Each preparation has refined the technique, resulting in a confection that maintains professional standards while incorporating artistic elements.

What Makes These So Special

These red velvet swirl truffles achieve distinction through their remarkable textural complexity and visual sophistication. The precise combination of premium white chocolate and carefully incorporated red velvet elements creates layers of nuanced flavor, while the methodical marbling technique produces stunning visual patterns. Each piece develops a perfectly smooth exterior while maintaining a velvet-soft interior, with artistic swirls that make every piece unique. The balance between sweetness and richness has been meticulously calibrated through extensive testing to achieve optimal flavor harmony.

Essential Components

  • Primary Elements:
    • granulated sugar, finest grade essential for proper crystallization
    • European-style butter, unsalted for flavor control
    • fresh heavy cream, proper fat content crucial
    • premium white chocolate, chopped precisely
    • pure vanilla extract, Madagascar bourbon variety preferred
    • semi-sweet chocolate for swirling
    • professional-grade red coloring
  • Equipment Requirements:
    • precise digital scale
    • heavy-gauge saucepan
    • silicone implements
    • marble surface for tempering
    • professional-grade thermometer

Creation Process

Initial Preparation
Line selected vessel with professional-grade parchment. Prepare mise en place with precise measurements. Temperature control remains crucial throughout process.
Base Development
Combine sugar, butter, cream with methodical technique. Monitor temperature consistently while maintaining gentle heat.
Color Integration
Incorporate red velvet elements with precise movements. Create sophisticated marble pattern through controlled technique.
Setting Procedure
Allow proper crystallization period in controlled environment. Monitor ambient temperature throughout process.

Technical Insights

Multiple iterations have revealed crucial aspects requiring attention during preparation. Temperature control proves essential throughout the process, particularly during chocolate melting and crystallization phases. Proper ingredient temperature alignment prevents adverse texture development. Precise timing during each phase ensures optimal results. The composition requires specific attention to humidity levels in the preparation environment.

A close-up view of square pieces of swirled red and white fudge arranged neatly. Pin it
A close-up view of square pieces of swirled red and white fudge arranged neatly. | cookingkeys.com

Preservation Protocol

Proper storage techniques prove essential for maintaining optimal quality. Environmental control during storage significantly impacts texture retention. Utilizing appropriate containment vessels prevents absorption of external flavors. Temperature stability during storage ensures continued visual appeal. Proper wrapping techniques for extended storage prevent texture degradation.

Variations and Adaptations

This foundational recipe accepts numerous sophisticated adaptations. Various flavor extracts create intriguing taste profiles. Incorporating different chocolate varieties allows for fascinating combinations. Alternative coloring agents provide opportunities for seasonal variations. Each adaptation requires specific adjustments to maintain proper consistency and setting properties. Premium additions enhance complexity while complementing base flavors.

Service Considerations

Professional presentation elevates this confection to sophisticated status. Temperature consideration during service impacts texture significantly. Proper cutting techniques ensure elegant presentation. Garnish selection enhances visual appeal considerably. Strategic placement on serving vessels maximizes visual impact. Understanding proper timing for service ensures optimal taste experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Why does my fudge turn grainy?

Sugar crystals can form if the mixture is stirred too much while cooking or cooling. Follow temperature guidelines and avoid excessive stirring.

→ How do I get nice swirls?

Work quickly before the fudge sets and use light strokes with a knife. Don't over-swirl or colors will blend too much.

→ Can I use milk instead of half-and-half?

Half-and-half provides the right fat content for proper texture. Whole milk might make the fudge too soft.

→ Why use two types of chocolate?

White chocolate creates the creamy base while semi-sweet adds richness to the red portions, mimicking red velvet cake flavor.

→ How long will this keep?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or refrigerate for up to a month.

Conclusion

Creamy white chocolate fudge with vibrant red velvet swirls, creating a visually stunning and delicious holiday dessert.

Red Velvet Swirl Fudge

Creamy white chocolate fudge with dramatic red velvet swirls. A beautiful blend of vanilla and chocolate that looks as impressive as it tastes.

Prep Time
30 Minutes
Cook Time
70 Minutes
Total Time
100 Minutes

Category: Desserts

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 16 Servings (16 squares)

Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

01 3 cups granulated sugar.
02 3/4 cup unsalted butter.
03 2/3 cup half-and-half cream.
04 2 cups white chocolate chips.
05 7 oz jar marshmallow creme.
06 2 teaspoons vanilla extract.
07 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips.
08 3 tablespoons red food coloring.

Instructions

Step 01

Line 9x9 pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang.

Step 02

Mix semi-sweet chocolate chips with red food coloring, set aside.

Step 03

Melt butter in large saucepan, add sugar and half-and-half.

Step 04

Mix white chocolate chips and marshmallow creme in separate bowl.

Step 05

Add vanilla, white chocolate mixture to butter mixture until smooth.

Step 06

Transfer half of white mixture to red chocolate, stir until melted.

Step 07

Spoon both mixtures into pan, shake gently to level.

Step 08

Create swirl pattern with knife.

Step 09

Let cool completely before cutting.

Notes

  1. Work quickly while swirling.
  2. Don't overmix swirls.
  3. Let cool completely before cutting.

Tools You'll Need

  • 9x9 baking pan.
  • Large saucepan.
  • Parchment paper.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 325
  • Total Fat: 15 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 45 g
  • Protein: 2 g