Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Get Your Pan Ready First things first, grab a 9x13 inch baking pan. If you have a quarter-size baking pan, that works beautifully too! You’ll want to line it with either foil or parchment paper. Make sure those edges extend up the sides – trust me, it’s a lifesaver when it comes to lifting the fudge out later. Once it’s lined, give that foil or parchment a quick spray with nonstick cooking spray. This guarantees a super easy release.
- Step 2: Prep Your Snowman Parts Now for the fun decorating bits! You’ll take your Mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and carefully cut each one in half. Then, place the two halves on top of each other to form a cute little top hat shape. I find that if I pop the Reese's cups into the fridge for about 10-15 minutes (not the freezer!), they firm up just enough to cut without getting too gooey. Next, break your pretzel sticks in half – these will be our snowman arms. Setting these aside now makes decorating a breeze when the fudge is ready.
- Step 3: Melt Your Fudge Base In a large, microwave-safe bowl, combine your white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Pop it into the microwave on high for 1 minute, then take it out and give it a good stir. You’ll keep heating it in 30-second bursts, stirring really well after each, until those chips are mostly melted. Once they're mostly melted, just keep stirring gently until any stubborn lumps have dissolved and you have a beautifully smooth, creamy mixture. Be careful not to over-microwave, or your chocolate can get stiff or even burn.
- Step 4: Add Flavor Once your fudge base is smooth, stir in your vanilla extract and that tiny pinch of salt. Give it another good mix until everything is perfectly combined and fragrant.
- Step 5: Pour and Spread Quickly pour your glorious fudge mixture into the prepared pan. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it out evenly from edge to edge. Work fairly fast here, as the fudge will start to set as it cools.
- Step 6: Decorate Your Snowmen! This is where the magic happens! While the fudge is still soft and warm, start arranging your snowman parts. Place your little Mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup hats, then add the orange jimmies for their cute little noses. Pop on two mini chocolate chips for their eyes, and tuck in those pretzel-half arms. Finally, add three mini red M&Ms (or your chosen buttons) for their buttons. Remember to leave a little space between each snowman design so you can cut individual pieces later. This is a perfect step for kids to help with – they love decorating!
- Step 7: Chill Out Once your snowmen are all dressed, gently place the pan into the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 4 hours, or until the fudge is wonderfully firm and set. Patience is key here for perfect slices!
- Step 8: Slice and Serve When your fudge is perfectly firm, lift it out of the pan using the foil or parchment paper lining and place it on a cutting board. Grab a small, sharp knife and carefully cut the fudge into individual pieces, making sure to cut around each adorable snowman decoration. You might find it helpful to lightly score the fudge first to guide your cuts. And just like that, you have a batch of the most charming, delicious Melted Snowman Fudge ready to enjoy!
Notes
Substitutions & Additions: You can swap white chocolate for milk or dark chocolate chips for a richer fudge base. Get creative with snowman accessories like sprinkles, tiny gumdrops, or licorice for scarves, or tiny candy carrots for noses. For a nut-free option, omit Reese’s cups and use chocolate wafers or large chocolate chips for hats. Add about ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract for a festive minty kick. A dusting of edible glitter before chilling can make your snowmen truly sparkle!
Tips for Success: Don't overheat the chocolate; use short bursts in the microwave and stir well. A tiny dab of vegetable shortening (about ½ teaspoon) can help smooth thick fudge. Work quickly for decorating as the fudge sets as it cools. Use a sharp, thin knife for clean cuts, warming it slightly under hot water and wiping dry between cuts. You can pre-cut Reese's hats and break pretzels a day or two in advance.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. If refrigerated, let it sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften. It freezes beautifully for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.