Marshmallow Swirl Fudge Irresistible Homemade Treat

December 9, 2025October 31, 2025 by Chef Miles

Ingredients

Complete list of ingredients

To make marshmallow swirl fudge, you will need:

– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk

– 1/4 cup unsalted butter

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 1 cup miniature marshmallows

– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

– 1/4 cup colorful sprinkles (for garnish)

These ingredients create a rich and creamy fudge that melts in your mouth.

Ingredient substitutions

If you need substitutions, here are some great options:

– For semi-sweet chocolate chips, you can use dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips.

– If you don’t have sweetened condensed milk, try using evaporated milk with a bit of sugar.

– You can swap unsalted butter for coconut oil or margarine if you prefer.

– Instead of vanilla extract, use almond extract for a different flavor.

These swaps can change the taste but still keep it delicious.

Optional add-ins for enhanced flavor

Want to make your fudge even better? Consider these add-ins:

– Add 1/2 cup of peanut butter for a nutty twist.

– Mix in dried fruit like cherries or raisins for a chewy texture.

– Use crushed candy canes for a festive touch, especially during the holidays.

– Try adding a pinch of sea salt for a sweet-salty flavor.

These options let you customize the fudge to your taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of the baking dish

Start by getting your baking dish ready. Take an 8×8-inch square dish. Line it with parchment paper. Make sure some paper hangs over the edges. This will help you lift the fudge out later.

Melting the chocolate mixture

Next, we need to melt the chocolate. Grab a medium saucepan and set it on low heat. Add 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk, and 1/4 cup of unsalted butter. Stir the mix constantly. Keep stirring until everything melts. You want it to be smooth and glossy.

Incorporating marshmallows and walnuts

Once the chocolate melts, take the saucepan off the heat. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix well. Now, gently fold in 1 cup of miniature marshmallows. If you like, add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts too. Make sure the marshmallows are spread evenly in the mix.

Swirling technique for marbling

Pour half of the fudge mixture into your lined dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom. Now, take spoonfuls of the rest of the mixture. Dollop it on top of the first layer. Use a knife to swirl through the layers. Do this gently to make pretty marbled patterns.

Chilling and serving the fudge

For the final touch, sprinkle 1/4 cup of colorful sprinkles on top. Now, place the fudge in the fridge. Chill it for 2-3 hours until it feels firm. Once chilled, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper. Place it on a cutting board and cut it into 16 squares. Enjoy your delicious marshmallow swirl fudge!

Tips & Tricks

Tips for achieving the perfect fudge texture

To get that perfect fudge texture, follow these tips:

– Use fresh ingredients. Old chocolate or expired milk can ruin the fudge.

– Melt slowly. Heat the chocolate mix over low heat. Stir it all the time.

– Don’t rush cooling. Let the fudge chill for 2-3 hours. This helps it set well.

– Avoid water. Even a drop of water can change the texture. Keep things dry.

Common mistakes to avoid

Here are some common mistakes I have seen:

– Don’t skip the butter. It adds creaminess and helps with texture.

– Avoid overmixing. When you fold in marshmallows, be gentle. Too much mixing ruins the swirl.

– Using the wrong pan. An 8×8-inch pan gives the right thickness. A bigger pan makes it thin.

– Not using parchment paper. This helps lift the fudge out easily. Without it, cutting becomes messy.

How to properly cut and serve fudge

Cutting fudge can be tricky. Here’s how to do it right:

– Use a sharp knife. A dull knife squishes the fudge. Clean the knife after each cut for neat squares.

– Chill before cutting. If the fudge is cold, it cuts easier. It helps keep the shape.

– Serve in liners. Place each piece in a colorful cupcake liner. It makes serving fun and easy.

– Pair with drinks. Hot cocoa or coffee goes well with fudge. This adds a cozy touch.

Variations

Different flavor combinations (e.g., peanut butter, caramel)

You can mix up the flavors in marshmallow swirl fudge easily. Try adding peanut butter for a nutty taste. Just blend in 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter when you melt chocolate. For a sweet twist, use caramel. Drizzle warm caramel over the fudge before swirling. The taste will be rich and delightful.

Alternative toppings and garnishes

You can get creative with toppings to make your fudge stand out. Use crushed cookies or nuts on top instead of sprinkles. Chopped almonds or crushed Oreos add great texture. If you like fruit, try adding dried cranberries or cherries. They offer a nice flavor contrast.

Adjusting sweetness and texture

If you want less sweetness, use dark chocolate chips. They give a richer taste. To change the texture, you can add more marshmallows. This makes the fudge softer and fluffier. For a firmer fudge, let it chill a bit longer. This way, you can find the perfect level of sweetness and texture that you love!

Storage Info

Best storage practices for freshness

To keep marshmallow swirl fudge fresh, store it in an airtight container. Line the container with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Place a layer of fudge with a sheet of parchment paper in between each layer. This helps maintain its soft texture and prevents it from drying out.

How long does marshmallow swirl fudge last?

Marshmallow swirl fudge stays fresh for about one week when stored properly at room temperature. If you keep it in the fridge, it can last up to two weeks. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Freezing options for long-term storage

For long-term storage, you can freeze marshmallow swirl fudge. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, the fudge can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. It will taste just as good as when you first made it!

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate. It will make the fudge sweeter. Adjust the amount of sweetened condensed milk if needed. Milk chocolate gives a creamy texture and a rich taste. You may want to reduce the sweetness to balance the flavor.

What can I do if my fudge is too soft?

If your fudge is too soft, chill it longer. Place it in the fridge for an extra hour. You can also add more chocolate chips and warm it gently. Stir until melted, then pour into the dish again. Let it chill until firm.

Are there any nut-free options available?

Yes, you can leave out the walnuts. The fudge will still taste great without nuts. You might add in more marshmallows or sprinkles for texture. This way, everyone can enjoy the treat without worry.

How to make marshmallow swirl fudge without condensed milk?

To make fudge without condensed milk, use heavy cream. Combine 2 cups of chocolate chips with 1 cup of cream. Heat until melted, then add butter and vanilla. Mix in marshmallows as usual. This method creates a creamy and delicious fudge.

In this post, we explored how to make delicious marshmallow swirl fudge. We covered essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for great texture. We also shared tasty flavor variations and storage tips for keeping your fudge fresh.

To sum up, making fudge is easy and fun. Remember to enjoy the process and be creative with flavors. Your next batch of marshmallow swirl fudge will impress friends and famil