Indulging in Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Fudge is a sweet escape you deserve. This amazing treat combines rich fudge with creamy cookie dough. You’ll love how easy it is to make, and it’s a hit for parties or cozy nights in. Whether you’re a baker or a novice, I’ll guide you through each step. Let’s dive into the fun of creating this delightful dessert that will leave everyone craving more!
Ingredients
To make Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Fudge, you need a few simple ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating that delicious treat you crave. Here is what you will need:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)
– 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips (milk or semi-sweet)
– 1 cup mini chocolate chips (for topping)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Each ingredient adds flavor and texture. The unsalted butter gives a rich creamy base. Brown sugar adds moisture and a deep sweetness. Granulated sugar helps create that perfect fudge texture. All-purpose flour binds everything together.
Sweetened condensed milk makes the fudge creamy and smooth. Chocolate chips add chocolatey goodness, while mini chocolate chips give a fun topping. Lastly, vanilla extract enhances all the flavors, and a pinch of salt balances the sweetness.
Using quality ingredients will make your fudge even better. So, don’t skip any!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Cookie Dough
1. Start by creaming the butter and sugars in a large bowl. Use a mixer or a spatula. Beat until the mix is light and fluffy. This step helps make the dough soft and tasty.
2. Next, add the vanilla extract. Stir it in well so that the flavor spreads evenly. This will give your dough a nice aroma.
3. Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt. Stir until a dough-like consistency forms. You want it to be soft but not sticky.
4. Fold in the chocolate chips. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This adds bursts of chocolate in every bite.
Making the Fudge Layer
1. In a separate saucepan, melt the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk over low heat. Stir until smooth. This mixture will be rich and creamy.
2. Once melted, remove the pan from heat. Let it cool slightly before folding it into the cookie dough. This way, you keep the dough from melting.
Setting the Fudge
1. Prepare an 8×8-inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper. Leave some paper hanging over the edges. This helps you lift the fudge out later.
2. Spread the fudge mixture evenly into the dish. Use a spatula to smooth the top. Make sure it is flat for an even finish.
3. Sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top. Gently press them into the fudge. This gives a nice look and extra chocolate flavor.
4. Place the dish in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 2 hours, or until firm. This step is key for that perfect fudge texture.
5. Once set, lift the fudge out of the dish using the parchment paper. Cut it into squares for serving. Enjoy your delicious treat!
Tips & Tricks
Storage and Shelf Life
To store chocolate chip cookie dough fudge, place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. You can also cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Store it in the fridge for the best taste. The fudge stays good for about one week. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it. Wrapped well, it can last for up to three months.
Perfecting Your Fudge
Common mistakes can ruin your fudge. One mistake is overmixing the dough. Mix just enough to combine ingredients. Another issue is not letting the fudge cool before mixing. Cooling helps blend flavors better. For a smooth fudge, melt the chocolate chips slowly. Stir gently to avoid lumps. If it seems too thick, add a little sweetened condensed milk to loosen it.
Serving Suggestions
Get creative with how you serve your fudge. Cut it into fun shapes using cookie cutters. You can also layer it in dessert cups with whipped cream. Pair it with vanilla ice cream for a tasty treat. Another option is to serve it with fresh fruit. Strawberries and bananas complement the rich fudge well. Enjoy this indulgent treat with friends and family!
Variations
Adding Flavor Variants
You can easily change the taste of your chocolate chip cookie dough fudge. For a nutty crunch, add walnuts or pecans. These nuts give a great texture and flavor. Just chop them up and fold them into the dough.
Next, think about your chocolate choice. You can use dark chocolate for a rich taste. White chocolate adds a sweet touch. Mixing different kinds of chocolate can create a unique flavor.
Dietary Adaptations
If you need gluten-free options, swap the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour. This keeps the texture nice and chewy.
For a vegan version, use plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate chips. You can also replace the sweetened condensed milk with coconut milk. This keeps the fudge creamy and delicious.
Finally, if you want to cut down on sugar, try using natural sweeteners like maple syrup or agave. Adjust the amounts to keep the right consistency in your fudge.
Experimenting with these variations makes your fudge fun and personal!
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Fudge
How long does it last?
If stored properly, your chocolate chip cookie dough fudge can last for up to two weeks. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and safe from strong smells in the fridge.
Optimal storage conditions
For the best taste, store your fudge in the fridge. A cool environment helps it stay firm. If you plan to enjoy it later, avoid leaving it out at room temperature for too long.
Freezing Fudge
Instructions for freezing
Freezing is a great option if you want to save some fudge for later. First, cut the fudge into squares. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the bag with the date.
How to thaw before serving
To thaw, simply take the fudge out and let it sit in the fridge overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can leave it at room temp for about an hour. This keeps the fudge from getting too soft. Enjoy your treat!
FAQs
How do I know when my fudge is set?
You can tell if your fudge is set by its firmness. When you press it lightly, it should bounce back without leaving a mark. The edges should look dry and the top should appear smooth and slightly shiny. Another sign is that it holds its shape when cut into squares. Allow it to chill for at least two hours in the fridge for the best results.
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Absolutely! You can mix and match chocolates to create your perfect fudge. Dark chocolate adds a rich, bold flavor, while white chocolate provides a sweet and creamy touch. You can even use flavored chocolate, like mint or caramel. This variety lets you customize your fudge to suit your taste buds. Experimenting with different chocolates can lead to exciting new flavors.
What is the difference between fudge and cookie dough?
Fudge is a smooth, creamy treat made primarily from chocolate and sweetened condensed milk. It has a rich and dense texture. Cookie dough, on the other hand, is made from flour, sugar, and butter, often with chocolate chips mixed in. Cookie dough is thicker and has a more crumbly consistency. While both are delicious, they offer different textures and flavors that make each treat unique.
This blog post covered how to make chocolate chip cookie dough fudge. We explored key ingredients like butter, sugars, and chocolate. I shared simple steps for preparing the cookie dough and making the fudge layer. Remember the tips for storing and serving this treat. You can try different flavors, like nuts or alternative chocolates.
Now, you can enjoy making this treat that combines two favorites. Happy baking!
