Hot Chocolate Swirled Fudge

This hot chocolate swirled fudge combines the cozy flavors of your favorite winter drink into a rich, decadent treat. The marriage of chocolate, Nutella, and marshmallow fluff creates an indulgent dessert that captures everything wonderful about hot chocolate in solid form.

I first made this fudge during the holiday season when I needed a last-minute gift for neighbors. The swirls of Nutella and marshmallow reminded me of hot chocolate with all the toppings, and it has since become my signature homemade gift that everyone requests year after year.

Ingredients

• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Provide the perfect balance of sweetness and rich chocolate flavor look for high-quality chips for the smoothest texture
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Creates that classic fudge consistency without complicated candy-making techniques
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor with subtle warmth
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create a velvety smooth texture
• Marshmallow Spread: Mimics the fluffy marshmallows that top hot chocolate use the jarred variety for easiest swirling
• Nutella Spread: Adds a hazelnut dimension that elevates this fudge beyond ordinary chocolate treats

How To Make Hot Chocolate Swirled Fudge

Melt the Base:

Combine semi-sweet chocolate chips and butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until completely smooth and glossy. This gradual melting prevents the chocolate from seizing or burning, which would ruin the texture.

Create the Fudge Mixture:

Add vanilla extract and sweetened condensed milk to the melted chocolate. Stir thoroughly until you have a uniform, thick, and luxurious chocolate mixture. The consistency should be pourable but not runny, similar to cake batter.

Prepare the Pan:

Line a square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to help with removal later. Pour your fudge mixture into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly into the corners and create a smooth surface.

Add the Swirls:

Drop spoonfuls of Nutella and marshmallow spread randomly across the top of the fudge. The warmth of the fudge mixture will slightly soften these elements, making them easier to swirl. Using a toothpick or thin knife, gently create figure-eight motions through the toppings to create beautiful marbled patterns without fully mixing them into the fudge.

Chill and Set:

Refrigerate the fudge for at least 3 hours until completely firm. The fudge needs this time to set properly for clean cutting. If you rush this step, you might end up with too-soft fudge that loses its shape.

Slice and Serve:

Once fully set, use the parchment paper overhangs to lift the fudge from the pan. Cut into squares using a sharp knife that's been run under hot water and dried this helps create clean cuts through the dense fudge.

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The marshmallow swirl is what truly transforms this from regular chocolate fudge into hot chocolate fudge. The first time I served this at a winter gathering, watching guests bite into a piece and recognize the familiar hot cocoa flavors brought such joy. The little pockets of marshmallow create that nostalgic experience of finding the half-melted marshmallows in your hot chocolate.

Make-Ahead and Storage

The beauty of this fudge recipe is that it actually improves with a day of rest in the refrigerator. The flavors meld together and the texture becomes perfectly firm yet melt-in-your-mouth smooth. Store cut fudge pieces in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Keep refrigerated for up to two weeks, or freeze for up to three months. Allow frozen fudge to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Variations to Try

This fudge recipe provides an excellent base for customization. Consider swapping the semi-sweet chocolate for milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter fudge. White chocolate works beautifully too, though you'll want to reduce the sweetened condensed milk slightly. For added texture, incorporate mini marshmallows into the fudge base before it sets, or sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top for a holiday twist. You can also experiment with different spreads such as cookie butter, peanut butter, or caramel in place of or alongside the Nutella.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve this fudge on a dessert board alongside shortbread cookies and fresh berries for an impressive display. For an interactive dessert experience, place squares of this fudge next to a hot chocolate station so guests can enjoy both forms of the beloved drink. During the holiday season, wrap individual pieces in wax paper and place in decorative tins or boxes with a handwritten note for thoughtful homemade gifts that friends and family will treasure.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?

Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate chips, but the fudge may turn out slightly sweeter and less balanced in flavor.

→ How can I store the fudge?

Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving if desired.

→ Can I add other toppings or flavors?

Absolutely! You can experiment with peanut butter, crushed candy canes, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for added variety.

→ Do I have to use a microwave to make this?

No, you can also melt the chocolate and butter using a double boiler on the stovetop.

→ How do I prevent the fudge from sticking to the dish?

Line your baking dish with parchment paper, making sure the edges extend beyond the dish for easy removal.