Irish Cream Fudge Delight

The first time I made this fudge, my teenage brother took one bite and declared it better than the expensive chocolate shop downtown. I had to laugh, watching him sneak another square while pretending he was just checking the texture.

Last Christmas, I made three batches and watched them disappear faster than any other treat on the dessert table. My aunt finally cornered me in the kitchen, demanding the recipe, and admitted she had been sneaking pieces whenever nobody was looking.

Ingredients

• 3 cups white chocolate chips: White chocolate creates the perfect creamy canvas for those Irish cream flavors to shine through without overpowering them
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk: This is the secret behind fudges velvety texture and provides just the right amount of sweetness throughout
• 1/4 cup heavy cream: A splash of heavy cream ensures the fudge stays perfectly soft and never becomes grainy or crumbly
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Butter adds richness and helps the fudge set up beautifully while maintaining that smooth consistency
• 2 tbsp strong brewed coffee: Coffee provides that distinctive Irish cream depth without any alcohol, creating layers of flavor
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract: Pure vanilla extract bridges all the flavors together and adds that classic homemade taste
• 1/4 tsp almond extract: Just a tiny amount of almond extract gives that mysterious background note that makes people wonder what the secret ingredient is
• 1/4 tsp cocoa powder: A hint of cocoa powder enhances the coffee notes and adds subtle complexity

Instructions

Prep your pan:

Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over slightly so you can lift the fudge out easily later

Melt the base:

Combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, and butter in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until everything melts into a silky smooth mixture

Add the flavors:

Remove the pan from heat and quickly stir in the cooled coffee, vanilla extract, almond extract, and cocoa powder until fully incorporated

Set the fudge:

Pour the mixture into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula, then add any garnishes you like while it is still soft

Chill and cut:

Let the fudge cool at room temperature for 10 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm before lifting it out and cutting into squares

Save

This fudge has become my go-to hostess gift because it looks impressive wrapped in pretty parchment but only takes about twenty minutes of active cooking time. I love seeing people is faces light up when they take that first bite.

Making It Your Own

Sometimes I swap the mini chocolate chips for crushed candy canes during the holidays, and the peppermint combination is absolutely magical. You could also drizzle melted dark chocolate on top for a pretty marble effect.

Storage Secrets

I have learned that this fudge actually improves after a day in the refrigerator, giving the flavors time to meld together into something even more delicious. Just keep it in an airtight container and it will stay fresh for a whole week.

Serving Ideas

This fudge makes an elegant addition to any dessert platter, but I have also served it alongside coffee after dinner for a simple yet impressive finish to a meal.

• Cut the fudge into small squares since it is quite rich
• Let it sit at room temperature for about ten minutes before serving for the best texture
• Package extra pieces in small boxes lined with wax paper for gift giving

Save

There is something deeply satisfying about making homemade fudge, and this recipe proves you do not need fancy techniques or hours of work to create something truly special.

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I make the fudge dairy-free?

Substitute heavy cream and butter with plant-based alternatives, and ensure the white chocolate chips are dairy-free for a vegan-friendly fudge.

→ What gives the fudge its Irish cream flavor without alcohol?

The flavor comes from a combination of strong brewed coffee, vanilla extract, almond extract, and a touch of cocoa powder, perfectly mimicking Irish cream nuances.

→ How long should the fudge chill before serving?

Chill the fudge in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until firm to achieve the ideal texture.

→ Can I add a mocha twist to this treat?

Yes, adding an additional tablespoon of strong brewed coffee will intensify the mocha flavor in the fudge.

→ What tools are needed to prepare the fudge?

A medium saucepan, spatula, 8x8 inch baking pan lined with parchment paper, and a sharp knife for cutting are required.