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When the holiday season rolls around, there’s nothing more delightful than sweet, festive treats that are easy to make and impossible to resist. Enter these Sugar Cookie Fudge Cups — the ultimate combination of a nostalgic sugar cookie flavor and rich, creamy fudge texture. These bite-sized holiday candies are perfect for Christmas dessert trays, cookie swaps, and edible gifting. Best of all, there’s no baking required!
Whether you’re hosting a cozy holiday gathering or prepping for a large festive party, these fudge cups are a guaranteed hit. Their cheerful appearance, creamy vanilla flavor, and smooth melt-in-your-mouth texture make them both elegant and fun. With just a handful of ingredients and some festive sprinkles, you’ll create a batch of candy that tastes as magical as the holidays themselves.
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No baking required
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Simple ingredients you probably already have
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Perfectly portioned for parties and gifting
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Festive look with customizable decorations
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Great make-ahead dessert
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Kid-friendly and egg-free
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create these rich and festive fudge cups, you’ll need:
For the fudge base:
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1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
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2 ½ cups white chocolate chips
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1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
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½ teaspoon almond extract (optional, enhances the “sugar cookie” flavor)
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½ teaspoon fine sea salt
For the sugar cookie crunch:
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6 sugar cookies, finely crushed (homemade or store-bought)
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1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
For decorating:
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Holiday sprinkles (red, green, white)
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Optional: White sanding sugar or edible glitter for sparkle
Equipment You’ll Need
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Mini muffin tin or silicone mini cup mold
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Mini cupcake liners (white or holiday-themed)
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Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler
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Mixing spatula or spoon
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Food processor (optional for crushing cookies)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Mini Liners
Line a mini muffin tin with 24 mini cupcake liners. Set aside. This step helps keep the fudge in shape while it sets and makes it easy to serve individually.
2. Make the Sugar Cookie Layer
In a small bowl, mix the crushed sugar cookies and melted butter until combined. Press about ½ teaspoon of the mixture into the bottom of each mini liner. This adds texture and a cookie base to each fudge cup.
3. Melt the Fudge Base
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth (about 1.5–2 minutes total).
Alternatively, use a double boiler over medium heat if you prefer stovetop melting.
4. Add Flavoring
Once the mixture is melted and smooth, stir in the vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and salt. Mix until fully incorporated.
5. Assemble the Cups
Spoon the fudge mixture into each prepared cup, filling them to the top. Tap the pan gently on the counter to level the tops.
6. Decorate
Immediately sprinkle each fudge cup with holiday sprinkles before the fudge sets. You can also add a dusting of white sanding sugar or edible glitter for an extra-festive shimmer.
7. Chill and Set
Refrigerate the fudge cups for 2 hours, or until firm. Once set, they can be stored at room temperature in a cool place or kept in the fridge if your home is warm.
Storage and Shelf Life
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Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
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Refrigerated: Keeps well for up to 2 weeks in the fridge.
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Freezer-Friendly: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Let thaw in the fridge before serving.
Flavor Variations
These sugar cookie fudge cups are easy to customize. Try these variations:
Peppermint Twist
Replace the almond extract with peppermint extract and top with crushed candy canes instead of sprinkles.
Cookies and Cream
Mix in crushed chocolate sandwich cookies with the fudge before filling the cups.
Nutty Delight
Add chopped pistachios or almonds on top for a crunchy texture and a pop of color.
Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
Swirl a bit of cinnamon and sugar into the fudge mixture for a warm, holiday spice twist.
Perfect For…
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Holiday dessert tables
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Christmas cookie boxes
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Teacher or neighbor gifts
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Potlucks and parties
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Treating yourself with something sweet and nostalgic
Expert Tips for the Best Fudge Cups
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Use high-quality white chocolate for the smoothest texture and best flavor.
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Don’t overheat the white chocolate or it may seize — stir frequently.
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Add sprinkles immediately after pouring the fudge so they stick well.
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Chill fully before unwrapping or packaging to avoid sticky edges.
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Use silicone mini muffin molds if you want easy release without liners.
Common Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these without the sugar cookie base?
Yes, the fudge will still taste great without the cookie layer. The base just adds extra crunch and flavor.
Can I use other types of chocolate?
This recipe is designed for white chocolate to match the sugar cookie flavor. Using milk or dark chocolate will change the flavor profile.
Are these safe for kids?
Absolutely. This recipe is alcohol-free, egg-free, and doesn’t use any ingredients unsuitable for children.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! You can easily double or triple the quantities. Just make sure you have enough mini cups and space in the fridge to chill them.
Do they melt at room temperature?
They stay firm at a cool room temperature but may soften if left in a hot environment. For warm climates or parties, store them in the fridge until serving.
Can I make these vegan?
Yes! Use vegan white chocolate and a dairy-free sweetened condensed milk substitute to make these fudge cups vegan-friendly.
Final Thoughts
These Sugar Cookie Fudge Cups are the ultimate no-bake holiday treat. They combine the joy of sugar cookies with the indulgence of creamy fudge — all in one adorable, hand-held cup. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or hoarding a secret stash for yourself (we won’t judge), these treats deliver both charm and flavor.
So whip up a batch, add some sprinkles, and get ready to spread sweet holiday cheer!
