Sugar Cookie Fudge Layered Bars

The holiday season is the perfect time to indulge in delicious, cozy treats that feel homemade — but don’t require complicated techniques or hours in the kitchen. These Layered Sugar Cookie Fudge Bars bring together the nostalgic flavors of buttery sugar cookies and rich, creamy fudge in a gorgeous layered dessert that’s as stunning as it is simple.

Each bite features a soft cookie crust topped with a silky white chocolate fudge infused with classic sugar cookie flavor. The best part? They’re no-bake, easy to prepare in advance, and can be beautifully decorated for any winter celebration. These bars are the ultimate make-ahead dessert for busy holiday hosts, festive potlucks, or edible gift boxes.

Whether you’re curating your Christmas dessert table or simply looking to satisfy your sweet tooth with something unique and elegant, these layered fudge bars check every box.

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Why You’ll Love These Layered Sugar Cookie Fudge Bars

• No baking required

• Festive presentation with two-tone layers

• Easy to make ahead and store

• Classic holiday flavor combo of cookies and fudge

• Free of pork, alcohol, and gelatin

• Kid-friendly, mess-free, and giftable

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the sugar cookie crust:

• 2 ½ cups finely crushed sugar cookies (use crisp store-bought or homemade cookies)

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

For the fudge layer:

• 2 ½ cups white chocolate chips

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract

• ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional, enhances sugar cookie flavor)

• Pinch of fine sea salt

• Optional: 2–3 drops natural red or green food coloring for a festive swirl

For decoration:

• Holiday sprinkles (red, green, gold, or white)

• Optional: white sanding sugar or edible glitter for shimmer

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Recommended Tools

• 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch square pan

• Parchment paper

• Mixing bowls

• Rubber spatula

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler

• Offset spatula or spoon for smoothing layers

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How to Make Layered Sugar Cookie Fudge Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Line your square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy lifting. This will make removing and cutting the bars much easier later on.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Crust

In a bowl, mix the crushed sugar cookies, melted butter, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan using the bottom of a glass or your hands.

Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the fudge layer.

Step 3: Prepare the Fudge

In a microwave-safe bowl (or using a double boiler), melt the white chocolate chips with the sweetened condensed milk in 30-second intervals, stirring between each. Continue until fully melted and smooth.

Once melted, stir in the vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and salt. For a festive twist, you can separate the fudge mixture into two bowls and add red food coloring to one half, creating a layered or marbled effect when poured.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Remove the pan from the fridge. Carefully pour the white fudge over the chilled cookie crust and smooth the top with an offset spatula. If using two colors, alternate spoonfuls of each and gently swirl with a knife for a marbled look.

Sprinkle festive decorations over the top immediately before the fudge sets.

Step 5: Chill and Set

Refrigerate the entire pan for at least 3 hours or until the fudge layer is fully set. For best results, let it chill overnight.

Once set, lift the fudge bars out using the parchment paper edges and transfer to a cutting board.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Cut into small squares or rectangles using a sharp knife. For clean edges, wipe the knife between each slice.

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Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container in a cool room for up to 5 days.

• Refrigerator: Keeps well for 2 weeks in the fridge.

• Freezer: Freeze whole or pre-sliced bars for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Pro tip: Layer pieces between wax or parchment paper to prevent sticking when storing or gifting.

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Optional Flavor Variations

These bars are easy to customize for different flavors and appearances. Try these fun holiday variations:

Peppermint Fudge Bars

Replace almond extract with peppermint extract and top with crushed peppermint candies instead of sprinkles.

Chocolate Drizzle Delight

After the fudge layer sets, drizzle with melted dark chocolate for a contrast in color and taste.

Cinnamon Swirl Bars

Add ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon to the cookie crust and swirl a bit into the fudge layer for a warm, spiced flavor.

Nut Lover’s Version

Add chopped pistachios or walnuts to the top for festive green color and crunchy texture.

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Serving Suggestions

These layered bars work beautifully for any holiday dessert setting:

• Slice into small squares and arrange on a Christmas dessert tray

• Pair with hot cocoa or spiced tea for a cozy treat

• Serve as part of a holiday brunch or sweet table

• Add to cookie boxes or edible gift tins

• Wrap individually in parchment and tie with twine for party favors

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Decorating Ideas

Make your sugar cookie fudge bars visually pop with these decoration ideas:

• Add star or snowflake-shaped sprinkles

• Use colored sanding sugar to create a frosty finish

• Pipe a thin white chocolate snowflake design once the fudge is set

• Create a layered look using red and green fudge for a holiday stripe effect

• Press small fondant holly berries or edible pearls into the top before setting

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use store-bought sugar cookies for the base?
Yes! Crisp, dry sugar cookies (without frosting or filling) work best. Avoid soft-baked cookies, as they’ll make the base soggy.

Can I skip the almond extract?
Absolutely. It’s optional but adds that distinct “sugar cookie” flavor. Vanilla alone still gives excellent results.

Do I have to use white chocolate chips?
White chocolate chips melt best and give a creamy texture. You can substitute with white candy melts if desired, though flavor may vary.

Is this recipe safe for children?
Yes — it contains no alcohol, no raw eggs, no pork, and no gelatin. It’s a great kid-friendly dessert.

Can I color the fudge layer?
Yes. Use oil-based or gel food coloring for best results. Water-based colors can cause chocolate to seize, so use carefully.

How can I cut the bars cleanly?
Use a long, sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. Slightly warming the knife with hot water can help get clean, smooth edges.

Can I use different sized pans?
Yes, though thickness will vary. An 8×8″ pan gives thicker bars; a 9×9″ will give slightly thinner results. You can double the recipe for a 9×13″ pan.

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Final Thoughts

These Layered Sugar Cookie Fudge Bars are everything a holiday dessert should be — easy, festive, rich, and perfectly shareable. The combination of buttery cookie crunch and creamy white fudge creates a satisfying contrast in texture and flavor, making every bite feel indulgent and joyful.

Whether you’re assembling a dessert board, prepping party treats, or wrapping up edible gifts for loved ones, these bars deliver both charm and taste. With endless decoration options and a forgiving recipe, they’re a delightful addition to your seasonal sweets — without the stress of baking.

Whip up a batch, get creative with colors and sprinkles, and enjoy the satisfaction of making something that looks like it came from a gourmet bakery — but was made right in your kitchen, no oven required.