Whip Up Dreamy Vanilla Bean Holiday Fudge Recipe Tonight

Decadent swirls of creamy vanilla bean holiday fudge dance across festive platters, promising pure indulgence with every delectable bite.

The rich, smooth texture melts effortlessly on your tongue, creating an instant moment of bliss.

Luxurious ingredients blend together, crafting a dessert that whispers sweet memories of winter celebrations.

Warm kitchens come alive with the gentle fragrance of pure vanilla and sugary richness.

Generations of bakers have perfected this simple yet extraordinary treat that never fails to delight.

Silky, sophisticated, and surprisingly easy to make, this fudge turns ordinary moments into something magical.

Get ready to become the star of every holiday gathering with this irresistible confection.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Calories: 174 kcal

Servings: 17

Vanilla Bean Holiday Fudge Ingredient List

• White Chocolate or Candy Melts: Rich, creamy foundation that creates the luxurious texture of holiday fudge, selecting high-quality chocolate ensures a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Provides silky sweetness and helps bind the fudge, look for fresh, unopened cans for best results.
• Vanilla Bean Paste or Vanilla Bean Seeds: Delivers deep, authentic vanilla flavor with beautiful specks, choose premium paste or fresh vanilla beans for an elegant touch.

• White Candy Melts: Creates a beautiful drizzle effect, select smooth-melting varieties for clean, glossy finish.
• Sprinkles: Adds festive color and whimsical texture, choose holiday-themed or classic styles to match your celebration.

• Parchment Paper: Ensures easy removal and clean cutting of fudge, select non-stick, high-quality paper for smooth release.

Tools for Perfect Vanilla Bean Holiday Fudge

• Saucepan: Medium-sized pot for melting chocolate and condensed milk smoothly.
• 8×8-inch baking dish: Square pan for setting and shaping the fudge.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and helps easy removal of fudge.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring and spreading mixture evenly.
• Sharp knife: Needed for cutting fudge into neat, small squares.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient proportions.
• Measuring spoons: Helps add precise amounts of vanilla bean paste.

How to Make Vanilla Bean Fudge Creamy and Smooth

• Preparation Station

Create a cozy workspace with all your baking tools ready. Line a square baking dish with soft parchment paper, allowing edges to hang over for easy removal later.

• Chocolate Melting Magic

Combine creamy white chocolate with silky sweetened condensed milk in a warm saucepan. Stir gently over low heat until everything transforms into a smooth, glossy mixture that looks like liquid silk.

• Vanilla Essence

Introduce the enchanting vanilla bean, releasing its tiny seeds into the melted chocolate. Swirl the delicate specks throughout, creating a dreamy, fragrant blend that whispers holiday memories.

• Setting the Scene

Pour the luxurious mixture into your prepared dish, spreading it evenly with a gentle touch. Let the fudge rest in the cool refrigerator, giving it time to firm up and develop its rich, creamy texture.

• Festive Finishing

Once set, lift the fudge from the dish using parchment paper edges. Slice into bite-sized squares that sparkle with vanilla bean specks. For an extra touch of whimsy, drizzle with white chocolate or sprinkle with festive decorations.

Tips for Better Texture in Vanilla Holiday Fudge

• Fold crushed candy canes, toasted nuts, or dried cranberries into the fudge mixture for added texture and festive flair.
• Sprinkle edible glitter, colored sugar, or crushed chocolate cookies on top to make the fudge more visually appealing and festive.
• Wrap individual fudge pieces in wax paper and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, perfect for make-ahead holiday gifts or dessert platters.

Serving Vanilla Bean Fudge for Celebrations

• Garnish with Festive Sprinkles: Brighten up the white fudge with colorful holiday sprinkles for a cheerful and playful touch that adds instant Christmas cheer.
• Create Gift-Worthy Packaging: Wrap individual fudge squares in clear cellophane with a festive ribbon, making perfect homemade edible gifts for friends and family during the holiday season.
• Pair with Warm Beverages: Serve alongside hot cocoa, mulled wine, or spiced coffee to complement the sweet vanilla flavor and create a cozy winter treat experience.
• Elevate Dessert Presentation: Arrange fudge squares on a decorative holiday platter with fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant and inviting display.

Store Vanilla Bean Fudge Without Drying Out

• Refrigerate Wisely: Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, preventing moisture and maintaining its creamy texture.
• Freeze for Later: Wrap individual fudge squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag to enjoy for up to 3 months, perfect for unexpected sweet cravings.
• Room Temperature Tip: Let frozen fudge thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bring to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for the best taste and softness.
• Gift-Giving Hack: Stack fudge squares between parchment paper layers in a decorative tin or gift box, creating a beautiful homemade treat that looks as delicious as it tastes.

Silky Vanilla Bean Holiday Fudge Recipe

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4.8 from 16 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 17 1x

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Description

Creamy vanilla bean holiday fudge merges classic comfort with festive sweetness. Rich chocolate and Madagascar vanilla create a luxurious dessert perfect for winter celebrations and gift-giving.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 can (14 oz/397 g) sweetened condensed milk
• 3 cups white chocolate or white candy melts
• 1 tbsp vanilla bean paste (or 1 vanilla bean, scraped)
• Optional: additional white melting candy for drizzling
• Optional: sprinkles for decoration

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish completely with parchment paper, ensuring smooth coverage for effortless fudge removal.
2. Melting Process: Combine white chocolate and sweetened condensed milk in a medium saucepan, gently heating over low temperature while stirring continuously to create a silky, uniform mixture without scorching.
3. Flavor Infusion: Incorporate vanilla bean paste or freshly scraped vanilla bean seeds into the melted chocolate base, thoroughly blending to distribute the intense aromatic essence throughout the fudge.
4. Setting: Pour the creamy mixture into the prepared dish, smoothing the surface with a spatula to achieve a professional, even finish, then transfer to the refrigerator for 2-3 hours until completely solidified.
5. Finishing Touches: Once chilled and firm, elevate the fudge using parchment paper edges, optionally drizzle with additional melted white chocolate, and garnish with decorative elements for a festive presentation. Slice into delicate squares and serve at room temperature to enhance its rich, creamy texture.

Notes

• Prevent Scorching: Stir constantly over low heat to avoid burning chocolate and achieve a smooth, creamy texture without lumps.
• Vanilla Intensity Tip: Use freshly scraped vanilla bean seeds or high-quality vanilla bean paste for a rich, authentic flavor that elevates the entire dessert.
• Chill for Perfect Slice: Refrigerate for exactly 2-3 hours to ensure firm, clean-cut pieces that hold their shape and look professionally crafted.
• Decorative Finishing: Optional white chocolate drizzle and festive sprinkles transform simple fudge into an elegant holiday treat guests will adore.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 17
• Calories: 174
• Sugar: 16 g
• Sodium: 55 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 24 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 12 mg