If you’re looking for a holiday treat that’s rich, creamy, melt-in-your-mouth delicious, and unbelievably easy to make, this Hot Chocolate Fudge is about to become your new winter favorite. Imagine silky chocolate fudge infused with cozy hot cocoa flavor, loaded with mini marshmallows, and topped with festive holiday sprinkles — a nostalgic combination that tastes like a warm cup of hot chocolate turned into perfect little squares of joy.
This no-bake recipe requires only a few ingredients, minimal effort, and delivers a stunning Christmas dessert ideal for gifting, cookie trays, dessert boxes, or holiday parties. It’s indulgent, beautiful, and guaranteed to disappear fast!
Why You’ll Love Hot Chocolate Fudge
This fudge is festive, creamy, and absolutely irresistible.
- Ultra-smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture
- True hot chocolate flavor in fudge form
- Easy no-bake holiday recipe
- Only a handful of ingredients
- Perfect for gifting and dessert trays
- Ready in minutes (plus chilling time)
- Looks stunning with marshmallows & sprinkles
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This isn’t just regular chocolate fudge — the addition of hot cocoa mix gives it a richer, deeper chocolate flavor with a nostalgic winter warmth. Mini marshmallows add the classic hot chocolate topping, and the fudge sets perfectly every time thanks to condensed milk. If you want a winter dessert that’s easy but feels truly special, this is it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- ¼ cup hot cocoa mix (any brand)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- Holiday sprinkles (optional)
Optional Add-Ins
- Crushed candy canes
- Chopped chocolate pieces
- White chocolate drizzle
- Mini dehydrated marshmallows
- Sea salt flakes
How to Make Hot Chocolate Fudge (Detailed)
1. Melt the Chocolate
In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, butter, and hot cocoa mix.
Stir constantly until fully melted, smooth, and glossy.
2. Add Vanilla
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
3. Fold In Marshmallows
Mix in half of the mini marshmallows (they’ll melt slightly and create creamy pockets of marshmallow goodness).
4. Pour and Spread
Line an 8×8 dish with parchment paper.
Pour the fudge mixture in and smooth out the top.
5. Top It Festively
Sprinkle remaining marshmallows on top.
Add Christmas sprinkles for a festive finish.
6. Chill
Refrigerate for 2–3 hours or until completely set.
7. Slice & Serve
Cut into squares and enjoy! Great for gifting and storing.
Nutritional Information (Estimated per piece)
- Calories: 160
- Protein: 2g
- Carbs: 22g
- Fat: 8g
- Sugar: 18g
Tips for the Best Hot Chocolate Fudge
- Use quality chocolate for the creamiest texture.
- Melt on low heat to avoid burning the chocolate.
- Don’t skip parchment paper — it makes removal easy.
- Let fudge chill completely before slicing.
- Want thicker fudge? Use a smaller 7×7 or loaf pan.
- Add toppings before fudge sets so they stick beautifully.
Variations & Substitutions
- Peppermint Hot Chocolate Fudge: Add peppermint extract + candy cane pieces.
- S’mores Version: Add crushed graham crackers.
- Salted Hot Cocoa Fudge: Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
- White Hot Chocolate Fudge: Use white chocolate + white cocoa mix.
- Extra Creamy: Fold in marshmallow fluff.
- Spicy Mexican Hot Chocolate: Add cinnamon + a pinch of cayenne.
What to Serve with Hot Chocolate Fudge
- Hot chocolate or mocha
- Coffee or cappuccino
- Christmas cookie platters
- Dessert boards
- Holiday party spreads
- Edible gift baskets
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overheating chocolate: Causes grainy texture — melt gently.
- Using evaporated milk instead of condensed: Won’t set properly!
- Skipping chill time: Fudge must fully firm up.
- Cutting too soon: Warm fudge will crumble.
- Adding marshmallows too early: They melt completely instead of staying fluffy.
Storing Tips
- Store in airtight container up to 1 week on counter.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 weeks.
- Freeze for up to 2 months — thaw in fridge overnight.
- Perfect for holiday gifting — stays fresh and firm!
Conclusion
This Hot Chocolate Fudge captures everything magical about winter — warm cocoa flavor, sweet marshmallows, and festive toppings — all in a silky, indulgent fudge that melts on your tongue. Whether you’re baking for Christmas, gifting treats, hosting a party, or simply satisfying your holiday sweet tooth, this no-bake fudge is a guaranteed hit that brings joy with every bite.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I use white chocolate?
Yes! It makes a beautiful “white hot chocolate fudge.”
Can I use homemade hot cocoa mix?
Absolutely — just use the same amount.
Will marshmallows melt in the hot fudge?
Some melt for creamy texture; the ones on top stay fluffy.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes — use a 9×13 pan.
Why is my fudge too soft?
Too much liquid or not chilled long enough. Chill longer or freeze.