Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prep Your Pan. Line an 8x8-inch pan with aluminum foil, leaving an overhang on the sides. Lightly spray the foil with non-stick spray and set aside.
- Step 2: Melt the Good Stuff. In a medium saucepan, over gentle medium-low heat, combine white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and chilled, cubed salted butter. Stir often for about 5-6 minutes until transformed into a smooth, melted mixture.
- Step 3: Color It Grinchy. Remove the mixture from the heat. Immediately stir in clear vanilla extract. Add gel green food coloring, starting with ¼ teaspoon, and mix until the fudge is a perfectly uniform Grinch green with no streaks.
- Step 4: Spread the Love. Working quickly, pour and spread the vibrant green fudge evenly into your prepared pan. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth the top.
- Step 5: Add the Hearts. Carefully arrange your 25 extra-large red heart candy sprinkles on top of the warm fudge. Aim for five rows of five, spaced about ½-¾ inches apart, so each piece will have a heart.
- Step 6: Chill Out. Let the fudge cool down completely at room temperature first. Once cool, pop it in the refrigerator to fully set and chill, which usually takes a couple of hours.
- Step 7: Slice & Serve. Once the fudge is wonderfully firm, use the overhanging aluminum foil edges to lift the fudge block out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and slice it into 25 perfect pieces. For uniform squares, use a sharp knife run under hot water and wipe it dry between slices.
Notes
Substitutions & Additions: For a different flavor, try milk chocolate chips (note: green will be darker). Experiment with extracts like peppermint (¼ tsp) or almond. If heart sprinkles are unavailable, use small red nonpareils, tiny red M&Ms, or crushed red peppermints. For texture, fold in ½ cup chopped pistachios or mini marshmallows after removing from heat. Add sparkle with edible glitter.
Tips for Success: Always melt chocolate and butter over low heat to prevent seizing or burning. Gel food coloring is crucial for intense, vibrant green; liquid can thin the fudge. Work quickly once off heat, as fudge sets fast. For clean cuts, use a sharp knife run under hot water and wiped dry between slices. This fudge is an excellent make-ahead treat.
Storage: Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage and a firmer texture, refrigerate in an airtight container (with parchment paper between layers) for up to 2-3 weeks. Fudge can be frozen for 2-3 months by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap, then placing in a freezer-safe bag or container; thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
FAQs: An 8x8-inch pan yields thicker fudge; a 9x13-inch pan will result in thinner fudge and quicker setting time. Grainy fudge is usually caused by undissolved sugar crystals or overheating—keep heat low and stir consistently. Regular vanilla extract can be used but may dull the vibrant green color. Fudge not setting is often due to incorrect measurements (e.g., insufficient sweetened condensed milk) or too much liquid food coloring; ensure precise measurements and use gel food coloring.