The kitchen buzzed with excitement as the aroma of delectable treats filled the air. That's how I discovered the magic of No-Bake Sugar Cookie Fudge, a festive delight that effortlessly combines the holiday spirit with the joy of homemade sweetness. This recipe is perfect for those eager to indulge without the fuss of baking—just a quick mix and some chill time, and voilà! Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also vegan and gluten-free, making it a versatile treat for everyone at the table. So, if you're ready to impress your family and friends while skipping the oven hassle, keep reading—you won’t want to miss this easy and delightful holiday treat! What festive occasion will you be making this for?
Why is sugar cookie fudge so delightful?
Simplicity at Its Best: With just a few ingredients and no baking needed, this recipe is perfect for even the busiest of hosts.
Festive Flavor Explosion: The combination of sugar cookies and creamy fudge creates a holiday treat that’s truly irresistible with every bite.
Vegan and Gluten-Free: Everyone can enjoy this delight, making it a versatile addition to your holiday spread.
Quick Preparation: In only 15 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready to chill and wow your guests.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether at a party or as a sweet gift, this treat is guaranteed to bring smiles all around. Enjoy more festive inspiration by checking out our no-bake Christmas cheesecake bars and no bake peanut butter bars for an array of delightful treats!
Sugar Cookie Fudge Ingredients
• You'll need these simple, delightful ingredients to bring your Sugar Cookie Fudge to life.
For the Fudge Base
- 1 cup sugar cookies – Use store-bought or homemade; the choice is yours!
- ½ cup vegan butter – This adds creaminess without the dairy.
- 2 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens the fudge to perfection; sift it for a smoother texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Elevates the flavor, making it even more festive.
- ¼ cup almond milk – Use any plant-based milk to keep it vegan-friendly.
For the Topping
- ½ cup festive sprinkles – These add a joyful crunch and improve presentation.
- Extra sugar cookie crumbles – For added texture on top, sprinkle on crumbles from any leftover cookies.
This quick-to-make Sugar Cookie Fudge will surely become your new favorite festive treat! Enjoy making memories as you whip up this delightful dessert.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sugar Cookie Fudge
Step 1: Prepare the Fudge Base
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of crushed sugar cookies and ½ cup of vegan butter, mixing until it creates a smooth and creamy base. Ensure the mixture is well combined and free from lumps, as this will be the foundation of your Sugar Cookie Fudge. This process should take about 3-5 minutes.
Step 2: Add Sweetness
Next, sift in 2 cups of powdered sugar to the mixture, followed by 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for that lovely holiday aroma. Stir these ingredients together until they’re fully incorporated, and the fudge base reaches a thick, spreadable consistency. This step enhances the flavor and sweetness, taking around 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Incorporate the Milk
Now, pour in ¼ cup of almond milk gradually, mixing continuously to achieve a silky texture for your Sugar Cookie Fudge. This not only brings everything together nicely but also helps achieve the right consistency for spreading. Look for a smooth and creamy mixture, which should take about 2 minutes of stirring.
Step 4: Transfer to Dish
Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal, then pour the fudge mixture into the dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the bottom, ensuring it’s smooth and level. This step is crucial for even chilling, taking about 2 minutes to perfect the surface.
Step 5: Add Festive Toppings
Sprinkle ½ cup of festive sprinkles across the surface of the fudge, pressing them gently into the mixture to help them stick. Finish with a dusting of leftover sugar cookie crumbles if desired, adding a crunch that complements the creamy fudge. This colorful step will take just a minute or two.
Step 6: Chill to Set
Place the baking dish in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 hours, allowing the Sugar Cookie Fudge to firm up beautifully. This time is important for the fudge to set perfectly, so be patient as you anticipate the delightful outcome. Once chilled, it should feel firm yet slightly soft upon pressing.
Step 7: Slice and Enjoy
Once set, remove the Sugar Cookie Fudge from the refrigerator and lift it out of the dish using the parchment paper. Cut it into bite-sized squares or bars, and serve as a festive treat that’s sure to delight friends and family. Enjoy the joy of homemade sweetness!
What to Serve with Sugar Cookie Fudge
The perfect dessert can spark joy, especially when paired with delightful accompaniments to enhance your experience.
-
Hot Cocoa: A rich, warm mug of cocoa complements the sweet fudge beautifully, making every bite a cozy delight. Imagine wrapping your hands around a steaming cup as you enjoy the creamy sweetness of the fudge.
-
Holiday Fruit Salad: Fresh fruits add a zesty twist, balancing the fudge's sweetness with their vibrant flavors. The crunch of apples, tartness of berries, and juiciness of oranges bring a refreshing contrast to each sweet bite.
-
Spiced Tea: A cup of spiced chai or herbal tea provides a soothing experience, warming you up with fragrant spices that celebrate the season. Sipping on tea while indulging in the fudge creates an inviting atmosphere.
-
Vegan Whipped Cream: A dollop of dairy-free whipped cream enhances the fudge's rich flavor, adding a light, airy element that beautifully contrasts the dense fudge. It’s like a soft cloud on a decadent treat!
-
Nutty Granola: Sprinkling some nutty granola over the fudge adds a delightful crunch while incorporating wholesome ingredients. Enjoy the blend of flavors and textures as you savor this delightful combination.
-
Sparkling Cranberry Juice: This festive drink provides a fizzy, tart contrast to the sweetness of the fudge, invigorating your palate. It's not just a drink; it’s the life of the party in a glass!
How to Store and Freeze Sugar Cookie Fudge
- Room Temperature: Store the Sugar Cookie Fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, keeping it fresh and tasty for snacking.
- Fridge: For longer-lasting fudge, refrigerate in an airtight container, where it will stay good for up to 2 weeks. This also enhances the fudge's creamy texture.
- Freezer: If you want to enjoy this festive delight later, freeze Sugar Cookie Fudge in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge when ready to savor!
- Reheating: If you prefer a warmer treat, pop the fudge in the microwave for a few seconds to soften, but be careful not to overheat. Enjoy the delightful hints of holiday flavors!
Make Ahead Options
These No-Bake Sugar Cookie Fudge treats are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the fudge base up to 3 days in advance and store it tightly covered in the refrigerator to maintain its delightful texture. Just follow the initial steps, combining the ingredients up to transferring the mixture into the baking dish. For the best quality, add the festive toppings, like sprinkles and cookie crumbles, just before serving to keep them vibrant and crunchy. When you’re ready to impress guests, simply slice it into squares and enjoy a sweet moment of homemade joy!
Expert Tips for Sugar Cookie Fudge
-
Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your sugar cookies are fresh for the best flavor. Stale cookies can compromise the taste of your fudge.
-
Sift the Powdered Sugar: Sifting the powdered sugar before adding it to the mixture helps achieve a smoother, creamy fudge without any lumps.
-
Check Temperature: If your vegan butter is too cold, it won’t cream well with the sugar cookies. Let it sit at room temperature to soften before mixing.
-
Customization Options: Feel free to add in festive spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor in your Sugar Cookie Fudge.
-
Chilling Time Matters: Ensure to chill the fudge for at least 2 hours; this allows it to set properly for easy slicing and a delightful texture.
Variations & Substitutions for Sugar Cookie Fudge
Customize your Sugar Cookie Fudge to suit your taste buds and dietary needs, making each bite a unique experience!
- Dairy-Free: Swap the vegan butter with coconut oil for a creamy texture, while keeping it completely plant-based.
- Nut-Free: Replace almond milk with oat milk or any nut-free alternative to maintain a rich flavor without the nuts.
- Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free sugar cookies to ensure everyone can indulge without worries.
- Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of almond extract for a delicious nutty flavor that enhances your fudge wonderfully.
- Festive Swirls: Fold in some melted dark chocolate or white chocolate for a beautiful marbled effect, making this treat even more appealing.
- Crispy Texture: Incorporate some crushed pretzels or rice cereal into the fudge base for a delightful crunch that contrasts the creaminess.
- Holiday Spice: Sprinkle a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg in the mixture for a warm, festive touch that captures the essence of the season.
- Fruit Twist: Fold in dried cranberries or chopped nuts for a chewy, textured surprise that complements the sweet fudge beautifully.
Let your creativity shine as you experiment with these ideas! If you're craving more festive treats, try our delightful no-bake peanut butter bars or get inspired with our chocolate peppermint rice crispy bars for more holiday cheer!
Sugar Cookie Fudge Recipe FAQs
What type of sugar cookies should I use?
Absolutely! You can use either store-bought or homemade sugar cookies for this recipe. If using store-bought, look for ones that have a nice, fresh flavor. If you're baking your own, make sure they aren’t overbaked, as soft cookies will blend better into the fudge.
How should I store the Sugar Cookie Fudge?
For optimal freshness, store your Sugar Cookie Fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks, which also helps maintain that creamy texture.
Can I freeze Sugar Cookie Fudge?
Yes, you can freeze it! Pack the fudge in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.
What if my fudge is too soft?
If your Sugar Cookie Fudge is too soft after chilling, it may need more time in the refrigerator. Let it chill for an additional hour or two until it firms up. If it’s still not setting, adding a bit more powdered sugar or reducing the amount of almond milk next time can help balance the consistency.
Is this recipe safe for people with allergies?
Most definitely! The Sugar Cookie Fudge is vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for many dietary needs. However, always double-check the labels on your ingredients, especially the sugar cookies and chocolate chips, to ensure they're free from allergens specific to your guests.
Indulge in Sugar Cookie Fudge: A Festive Delight You’ll Love
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- 8x8 inch baking dish
- parchment paper
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 1 cup sugar cookies Use store-bought or homemade; the choice is yours!
- ½ cup vegan butter Adds creaminess without the dairy.
- 2 cups powdered sugar Sift for a smoother texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Elevates the flavor.
- ¼ cup almond milk Any plant-based milk works.
Topping
- ½ cup festive sprinkles Adds a joyful crunch.
- Extra sugar cookie crumbles For added texture on top.
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of crushed sugar cookies and ½ cup of vegan butter, mixing until smooth and creamy.
- Sift in 2 cups of powdered sugar and add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, stirring until fully incorporated.
- Pour in ¼ cup of almond milk gradually, mixing continuously to achieve a silky texture.
- Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, then pour in the fudge mixture and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle ½ cup of festive sprinkles on top, pressing gently into the mixture.
- Place the baking dish in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours to firm up.
- Remove from the refrigerator, cut into bite-sized squares or bars, and serve.
Leave a Reply