Best Sugar Cookie Fudge – Easy Homemade Recipe
Did You Know 73% of Home Bakers Struggle With Fudge That’s Too Grainy or Too Soft?
There’s something magical about the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture of perfect fudge—especially when it tastes like your favorite sugar cookies. But let’s be honest: achieving that dreamy consistency can feel like a baking mystery. Too often, homemade fudge turns out grainy, crumbly, or stubbornly refuses to set. That’s why I’m sharing my Best Sugar Cookie Fudge recipe—a foolproof, no-fail version that’s as easy as it is decadent.
Picture this: velvety squares infused with the nostalgic warmth of vanilla and butter, dotted with cheerful sprinkles, and just sweet enough to make you close your eyes and sigh. This isn’t just fudge; it’s a holiday hug in dessert form. And the secret? No thermometers, no frantic stirring, and absolutely no guesswork. Just five simple ingredients and 10 minutes of hands-on time.
I developed this recipe after one too many failed attempts at traditional fudge (we’ve all been there, right?). The breakthrough came when I realized sugar cookie flavors—buttery, vanilla-kissed, with a hint of almond—could transform basic fudge into something extraordinary. Now, it’s my most requested treat during cookie exchanges, and I’ve watched even self-proclaimed “fudge flops” succeed with this method.
Why This Sugar Cookie Fudge Works When Others Fail
Most fudge fails happen for two reasons: incorrect sugar crystallization (hello, grainy texture!) or imprecise heating. This recipe sidesteps both issues by using sweetened condensed milk as the base—its creamy consistency guarantees smooth results every time. The addition of white chocolate chips adds structure without demanding candy-making expertise, while a generous swirl of vanilla extract and almond emulsion (my not-so-secret weapon) creates that unmistakable sugar cookie essence.
But what truly sets this Best Sugar Cookie Fudge apart? It celebrates imperfection. Forget about exact temperatures or watching for the “soft ball stage.” This fudge sets beautifully at room temperature, stays creamy for days, and welcomes playful mix-ins like rainbow sprinkles or crushed cookie bits. It’s the anti-fuss fudge for people who just want delicious results—no pastry degree required.
PrintSugar Cookie Fudge
A creamy and sweet fudge with the classic flavor of sugar cookies.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 3 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
- 1/2 cup sugar cookie mix (dry)
- 1/4 cup sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.
- Stir in vanilla extract, almond extract, and sugar cookie mix until well combined.
- Fold in sprinkles if using, then pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm. Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste.
The Best Sugar Cookie Fudge You’ll Ever Make
There’s something magical about the combination of soft, buttery sugar cookies and creamy fudge. This recipe brings those two beloved treats together in one irresistible bite—perfect for holiday gifting, cookie exchanges, or just treating yourself on a cozy afternoon. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, with no baking required!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 cups white chocolate chips – The base of our fudge! I recommend using high-quality chips for the smoothest texture.
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk – This keeps the fudge lusciously creamy and helps it set perfectly.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter – Softened to room temperature. It adds that rich, buttery flavor we love in sugar cookies.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Pure vanilla makes all the difference here.
- 1/2 tsp almond extract – The secret ingredient! It gives that nostalgic sugar cookie taste.
- 1 1/2 cups crushed sugar cookies – Use store-bought or homemade. I love the texture they add!
- 1/4 cup rainbow sprinkles – Because fudge should be as fun as it is delicious.
- Pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Let’s Make Some Fudge!
- Prepare your pan. Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This makes it easy to lift the fudge out later. A quick spritz of cooking spray helps the paper stay in place.
- Melt the chocolate. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each, until completely smooth. Be patient—overheating can cause the chocolate to seize!
- Mix in the butter and flavors. Add the softened butter, vanilla, almond extract, and salt to the melted chocolate. Stir until the butter is fully incorporated and the mixture is glossy. If the butter isn’t blending in easily, pop the bowl back in the microwave for just 5-10 seconds to loosen it up.
- Fold in the goodies. Gently stir in the crushed sugar cookies and sprinkles. I like to reserve a handful of each to sprinkle on top for a pretty finish. The dough will be thick, but that’s exactly what we want!
At this point, your kitchen probably smells like a sugar cookie wonderland—take a moment to enjoy it! Now, let’s get this fudge ready to set…
Pro Tips for Perfect Sugar Cookie Fudge Every Time
Making fudge can feel intimidating, but this sugar cookie version is foolproof with these simple tricks:
- Room temperature is key – Let your butter and cream cheese soften naturally for the smoothest texture
- Low and slow melting – Melt your white chocolate in 30-second bursts to prevent seizing
- The sprinkle secret – Press additional sprinkles on top right after pouring for maximum festive appeal
- Chill time matters – Don’t rush the 2-hour refrigeration – it makes for perfect slicing
Delicious Variations to Try
This versatile recipe welcomes creativity! Here are some crowd-pleasing twists:
- Peppermint magic – Add 1/2 tsp peppermint extract and crushed candy canes
- Chocolate chip – Fold in mini chocolate chips for a cookies-and-cream vibe
- Nutty delight – Mix in chopped toasted pecans or almonds
- Birthday cake – Use rainbow sprinkles and add 1 tsp cake batter extract
What to Serve With Your Sugar Cookie Fudge
This sweet treat plays well with others! Try pairing with:
- A steaming mug of spiced cider or hot chocolate
- Fresh berries for a sweet-tart contrast
- Vanilla bean ice cream for an over-the-top sundae
- Afternoon tea or coffee for an elegant touch
The Sweet Benefits of Homemade Fudge
Beyond being utterly delicious, this recipe offers some wonderful perks:
- Gift-worthy – Package in pretty tins for heartfelt homemade presents
- Freezer-friendly – Stores beautifully for up to 3 months
- Crowd-pleaser – Perfect for bake sales, potlucks, and holiday parties
- Nostalgic joy – That sugar cookie flavor brings back childhood memories
Real-Life Tips From My Kitchen to Yours
After making countless batches, here are my hard-won lessons:
- Line your pan with parchment paper with overhanging edges for easy removal
- Use a pizza cutter for clean, even squares
- If your fudge seems too soft, an extra hour in the fridge works wonders
- For holiday gifting, cut into shapes with cookie cutters while slightly chilled
The beauty of this recipe is how it brings people together – whether you’re making it with kids, gifting it to neighbors, or sneaking midnight bites straight from the fridge. That first bite of creamy, sprinkly sweetness is pure happiness in every square.
Conclusion
There you have it—the easiest, most delicious sugar cookie fudge you’ll ever make! With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a batch of this creamy, dreamy treat that tastes just like your favorite sugar cookies. Perfect for holidays, bake sales, or just a sweet afternoon pick-me-up, this fudge is sure to become a staple in your dessert rotation.
Now it’s your turn! Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out. Did you add any fun mix-ins or toppings? Share your creations in the comments below, and don’t forget to check out our other easy dessert recipes for more sweet inspiration!
FAQs
Can I use homemade sugar cookie dough instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! If you prefer homemade sugar cookie dough, feel free to substitute it in equal amounts. Just make sure it’s fully cooled before mixing it into the fudge base to avoid melting the white chocolate.
How long does this fudge stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, this fudge stays fresh for up to a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to two weeks or freeze it for up to three months—just thaw it at room temperature before serving.
Can I add sprinkles or other mix-ins?
Yes! Sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or even crushed candy canes would be delightful additions. Fold them in with the cookie dough or sprinkle them on top before the fudge sets for a festive touch.
Why is my fudge too soft or not setting?
If your fudge isn’t setting properly, it may be due to insufficient cooking time or inaccurate measurements. Make sure to heat the condensed milk and white chocolate until fully melted and smooth, and always use the exact amounts listed for best results. If needed, pop it in the fridge to firm up.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply swap the sweetened condensed milk for a dairy-free alternative (like coconut condensed milk) and use dairy-free white chocolate. Just ensure your sugar cookie dough is also dairy-free if needed.