Sugar Cookie Fudge Tutorial

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Author: Opera Cook
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Screenshot of sugar cookie fudge tutorial showing the melting and mixing process.

Craving a holiday treat that’s both beginner-friendly and seriously delicious? This sugar cookie fudge tutorial will walk you through exactly how to make the smoothest, creamiest fudge packed with nostalgic sugar cookie flavor — no baking required and no candy thermometer needed.

Whether you’re a first-time fudge maker or a seasoned holiday baker looking for a new favorite, this easy guide will help you master every step. By the end of this tutorial, you’ll have a batch of melt-in-your-mouth sugar cookie fudge that looks gorgeous on dessert platters, in festive gift boxes, or simply stored in the fridge for sweet moments all season long.

Simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and festive decorations make this recipe a go-to Christmas dessert you’ll want to make again and again.


Why This Sugar Cookie Fudge Tutorial Works for Everyone

  • Perfect for beginners – simple steps and no technical equipment required

  • Quick & easy – ready in minutes with minimal prep

  • Festive flavor – sugar cookie taste in a creamy fudge form

  • No alcohol, no gelatin, and no pork – suitable for various dietary needs

  • Customizable – add colors, sprinkles, and swirls for any holiday theme


Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make sugar cookie fudge from scratch:

For the fudge:

  • 2 ½ cups white chocolate chips (use high-quality for best texture)

  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

  • 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract

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

  • ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt

For mix-ins and decorations:

  • ¾ cup crushed sugar cookies (dry, crisp style)

  • Holiday sprinkles (red, green, gold, or multi-colored)

  • Optional: Edible glitter or white sanding sugar

  • Optional: Food coloring (red or green) for swirl designs


Tools You’ll Need

  • 8×8 or 9×9 inch square pan

  • Parchment paper

  • Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler

  • Spatula

  • Measuring cups and spoons

  • Small offset spatula or spoon

  • Sharp knife for slicing


Before You Start

Prep the Pan

Line your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang on the sides. This will help lift the fudge out easily once it’s set.

Crush the Cookies

Using a rolling pin or food processor, crush the sugar cookies into small pieces — not too fine, so you get a bit of texture in every bite.


Step-by-Step Sugar Cookie Fudge Tutorial

Step 1: Melt the Base

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until fully melted and smooth. This usually takes about 1.5 to 2 minutes.

Step 2: Add Flavoring

Remove the bowl from the microwave and stir in the vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and sea salt. Mix thoroughly.

Step 3: Add Cookie Crumbs

Fold in the crushed sugar cookies until evenly distributed through the fudge mixture.

Step 4: (Optional) Color the Fudge

If you’re using food coloring for a marbled effect, divide the fudge mixture into two bowls. Tint one half with a drop or two of food coloring, then spoon the mixtures alternately into the pan and gently swirl with a knife or skewer.

Step 5: Pour and Smooth

Transfer the fudge into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the top.

Step 6: Add Toppings

Immediately sprinkle the top with festive sprinkles, edible glitter, or sanding sugar. Press lightly so they stick as the fudge sets.

Step 7: Chill and Set

Refrigerate the fudge for at least 3 hours or until firm. Overnight is even better for clean slicing.

Step 8: Slice and Enjoy

Lift the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper. Slice into small squares or rectangles using a sharp knife. Clean the knife between cuts for neat edges.


Storage Tips

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

  • Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months in layers separated by parchment paper. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

  • Room Temp: If your kitchen is cool, the fudge can stay out for a few hours — perfect for dessert tables.


Creative Variations

Peppermint Sugar Cookie Fudge

Swap almond extract for peppermint, and top with crushed peppermint candies.

Cinnamon Sugar Swirl

Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon to the base and swirl in a cinnamon-sugar blend for a warm twist.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Fudge

Replace sugar cookies with finely chopped chocolate chip cookies for a delicious variation.

Cookie Dough Fudge

Mix in edible cookie dough bites (store-bought or homemade) before setting the fudge.


Decorating Tips for the Holidays

  • Use gold and silver sprinkles for a New Year’s Eve version

  • Shape fudge into rounds with cookie cutters before it fully sets

  • Add candy snowflakes or edible stars for a winter wonderland look

  • Layer red and green tinted fudge for a striped Christmas effect

  • Add tiny fondant bows to each piece for a gift-wrapped vibe


Perfect For…

  • Holiday gift boxes

  • Christmas dessert tables

  • Office party treats

  • Edible stocking stuffers

  • No-bake recipe swaps

  • Kid-friendly holiday activities


Pro Tips for Fudge Success

  • Use good-quality chocolate chips — it really makes a difference in texture and flavor.

  • Don’t overheat the chocolate when melting. If using a microwave, stir often and melt in short bursts.

  • Use crisp cookies — soft cookies may make the fudge too moist or crumbly.

  • Add sprinkles quickly before the top starts setting.

  • Chill fully before slicing to get clean edges and prevent stickiness.


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use milk or dark chocolate instead of white chocolate?
You can, but it won’t have the sugar cookie flavor. White chocolate mimics the creamy vanilla taste best.

What kind of sugar cookies work best?
Use plain, crispy sugar cookies — either homemade or store-bought. Avoid soft-baked cookies or ones with icing.

Can I skip the almond extract?
Yes, but a little almond extract gives it that authentic sugar cookie aroma. It’s optional but highly recommended.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! There’s no alcohol, raw eggs, or unsafe ingredients. It’s also a fun recipe for kids to help decorate.

Can I turn this into fudge bars instead of squares?
Yes, just slice into longer rectangles or bars once set. You can also double the recipe for a thicker version.

How long does it take to set completely?
Typically 3–4 hours in the refrigerator, but overnight yields the best slicing results.

Can I add nuts or dried fruits?
You can! Chopped pistachios, dried cranberries, or slivered almonds are great festive additions.


Final Thoughts

With this Sugar Cookie Fudge Tutorial, you don’t need any fancy tools, candy thermometers, or advanced kitchen skills — just simple ingredients, a microwave (or stovetop), and a little holiday spirit. The result? A creamy, festive treat that looks gourmet but takes minutes to make.

From cookie swaps to Christmas Eve dessert trays, this fudge is the ultimate no-fail, crowd-pleasing candy. Whip up a batch of sugar cookie bliss that will have everyone asking for seconds — and the recipe!

Opera Cook!
Opera Cook

Welcome to my kitchen! I’m Opera Cook, a passionate home cook sharing tried-and-true comfort recipes made with love. Whether you’re craving fluffy pancakes, rustic bread, or rich chocolate desserts—you’re in the right place. Let’s bake something wonderful together!

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