For anyone who scans the holiday dessert table at a party or cookie swap with laser focus looking for the candy bar-like squares of fudge, I see you. I am you. Don’t get me wrong, I love Christmas cookies of all shapes and flavors, but when my sweet tooth is in overdrive, it’s creamy, chocolaty fudge I need. Fudge is super-versatile, and I’ll take it in any form, but crammed full of sweet and salty nuts and candies, it’s next-level spectacular.
As a no-bake treat, fudge can be an easy addition to your holiday dessert line-up, especially using this shortcut method that doesn’t require boiling sugar or a candy thermometer. Mini marshmallows, salted peanuts, and bite-size peanut butter cups add a squishy-crunchy-creamy trifecta of textures to the firm chocolate that is anything but plain. (Pro tip: Freeze them first for about 15 minutes if your kitchen is warm so they keep their shape when mixed in.)
To add balance and cut through the sugar, cocoa powder and salt are vital, so don’t be tempted to cut back on them. In a final touch of festive flair, a sprinkling of mini peanut butter candies pays homage to everyone’s favorite reindeer. Picking out the red ones takes only a minute, but you can use whatever colors you like.
Did you try making this? Let us know how it went in the comments!
