Are you ready to indulge in a sweet treat? Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Fudge is simple and delicious! This easy recipe combines the creamy taste of cookie dough with rich fudge. Imagine biting into a soft, sweet square while savoring chocolate chips. I’m going to share my favorite tips, tricks, and variations to help you master this dessert. Let’s get started on making your new favorite treat!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients
To make chocolate chip cookie dough fudge, you need a few key items. Gather these essentials:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup mini chocolate chips
– 1 cup chocolate chips (for the fudge coating)
These ingredients create a rich and creamy texture. The butter adds moisture, while the sugars give sweetness. The condensed milk helps bind everything together.
Optional Ingredients
For extra flavor, you might want to add some optional ingredients. Here are a couple you can consider:
– 1 teaspoon sea salt (for a sweet-salty contrast)
Adding sea salt at the end brings out the sweet flavors. It can make each bite even more exciting.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap some ingredients if needed. Here are a few ideas:
– Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
– Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free choice.
– Use maple syrup in place of granulated sugar for a natural sweetener.
These substitutions allow you to customize the fudge. You can enjoy it while meeting dietary needs or preferences.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
First, you need to make the dough. Take a large mixing bowl. Cream together 1 cup of softened butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Mix them until light and fluffy. This step is key for a nice texture. Next, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 can of sweetened condensed milk. Mix until everything is well combined.
Now, gradually stir in 2 cups of all-purpose flour. Make sure to mix until it is smooth. It’s important to avoid lumps here. Once the flour is mixed in, fold in 1 cup of mini chocolate chips. This adds great flavor!
Melting the Chocolate
Now, let’s melt the chocolate. Take a microwave-safe bowl and add 1 cup of chocolate chips. Heat them in the microwave in 30-second intervals. Stir after each interval until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Watch closely, so it does not burn. This melted chocolate will coat our fudge later.
Assembling the Fudge
Grab an 8×8-inch square baking dish. Line it with parchment paper. Leave some paper hanging over the sides. This makes it easy to lift the fudge out later. Next, press the cookie dough mixture evenly into the lined dish. Use your hands or a spatula to make an even layer.
Pour the melted chocolate over the pressed cookie dough. Spread it evenly to cover the layer completely. If you want, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of sea salt over the chocolate. This gives a nice touch!
Now, refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours. This helps it set firmly. Once it is set, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper. Cut it into squares and enjoy your sweet treat!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get the best texture, cream the butter and sugars well. You want it light and fluffy. This step makes your fudge soft and smooth. When mixing in the flour, do it slowly. You don’t want lumps in your dough. Press the dough evenly in the pan for a nice base. A spatula helps to smooth it out.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overmixing after adding flour. This can make your fudge tough. Also, don’t skip the chilling time. It helps the fudge set properly. If you rush it, the fudge may be too soft. Another mistake is not lining the pan with parchment paper. This makes removal hard and messy.
How to Enhance Flavor
Add a pinch of sea salt on top of the fudge. It makes the chocolate taste even better. You can also use flavored extracts, like almond or maple. Mixing in some crushed nuts can add a nice crunch. Try adding a few more chocolate chips for extra richness.
Variations
Nutty Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Fudge
You can add nuts to the fudge for a tasty crunch. Chopped walnuts or pecans work well. Just mix in a cup of your favorite nuts before you press the dough into the baking dish. The nuts add texture and flavor that pairs perfectly with the chocolate.
Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Fudge
If you want a vegan version, use plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate chips. Replace the sweetened condensed milk with a can of coconut milk or vegan condensed milk. This way, you can enjoy creamy fudge without any animal products. The taste remains rich and delicious!
Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Fudge
To make gluten-free fudge, swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all chocolate chips and other ingredients are gluten-free, too. This way, everyone can enjoy a tasty treat without worry. The fudge will still be sweet and creamy, just like the original!
Storage Info
How to Store the Fudge
To store your fudge, keep it in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers if needed. This helps prevent sticking and keeps it fresh longer. Make sure to store it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. The fudge will stay soft and tasty this way.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some fudge for later, freezing works great. Cut the fudge into squares. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped fudge in a freezer-safe bag or container. This helps to keep out air and moisture. The fudge can freeze for up to three months. When you are ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Shelf Life
When stored correctly, your chocolate chip cookie dough fudge lasts about one week at room temperature. If kept in the fridge, it can last up to two weeks. Freezing it extends its life to about three months. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. Enjoy your sweet treat!
FAQs
Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of mini?
Yes, you can use regular chocolate chips. The taste stays the same. However, mini chips mix in better. They spread evenly throughout the fudge. If you prefer a bigger bite, go for regular chips.
How long does it take for the fudge to set?
The fudge takes about two hours to set in the fridge. You want it firm and ready to cut. If you like it colder, leave it in longer. Just make sure not to forget it in there!
What can I serve with chocolate chip cookie dough fudge?
You can serve it on its own or with ice cream. It pairs well with milk or coffee too. For a fun touch, add fresh fruit or whipped cream. You can even sprinkle more mini chocolate chips on top!
This guide covered all you need to make delicious chocolate chip cookie dough fudge. We looked at key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfect texture. You learned about variations, storage, and answered common questions.
Now you can create your fudge with confidence. Enjoy every bite and share with friends and family!
