Description
Vampire Fudge is a decadent and spooky sweet treat perfect for Halloween or any festive occasion. This layered chocolate fudge combines creamy peanut butter swirls tinted with a dramatic red hue alongside rich semi-sweet and milk chocolate layers. Topped optionally with pretzels, crushed Oreos, or chopped nuts for extra texture, this visually striking dessert is as delicious as it is fun to make and share.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12 ounce) bag semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 (12 ounce) bag milk chocolate chips
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- Red food coloring gel (a tiny amount, for dramatic effect)
Optional Garnishes
- Pretzel sticks
- Crushed Oreos
- Chopped nuts
Instructions
- Prepare Pan: Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the fudge out later.
- Melt Butter: In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter completely while stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Condensed Milk: Gradually whisk in the sweetened condensed milk ensuring the mixture stays smooth and well combined.
- Melt Chocolate: Add both semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips to the butter mixture, stirring constantly until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is glossy.
- Flavor: Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor depth of the fudge base.
- Prepare Peanut Butter Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy, then mix in a small amount of red food coloring gel to achieve a vivid red color.
- First Chocolate Layer: Pour half of the chocolate mixture into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly to form a smooth layer.
- Add Peanut Butter Swirls: Spoon dollops of the red peanut butter mixture evenly over the chocolate layer, then gently swirl it into the chocolate using a knife or skewer to create a marbled effect.
- Top with Chocolate: Pour the remaining chocolate mixture over the peanut butter swirls and spread evenly to completely cover the layer beneath.
- Add Garnishes: Sprinkle optional pretzels, crushed Oreos, or chopped nuts on top for added texture and visual appeal.
- Chill: Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the fudge to firm up properly.
- Slice and Serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan. Cut into small squares with a sharp knife, wiping the knife clean between cuts for clean edges. Arrange on a serving platter and serve chilled.
Notes
- Allow the fudge to chill thoroughly to ensure clean slicing and best texture.
- Use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts to maintain neat squares.
- Substitute peanut butter with a nut-free alternative for allergies.
- The red food coloring gel is optional but adds a dramatic vampire-inspired visual effect.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
