Grinch Fudge Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a festive holiday treat that brings a pop of color, a hint of mischief, and a whole lot of cheer to the dessert table, look no further than Grinch Fudge. This creamy, vibrant green fudge dotted with cheerful red heart sprinkles is an absolute showstopper at Christmas parties or family movie nights. With just a handful of classic ingredients and a dash of playful food coloring, Grinch Fudge delivers that nostalgic, sweet white chocolate flavor you love—plus the pure joy of making and sharing something fun. Your friends and family will be smiling from ear to ear with every bite of this whimsical, easy-to-make treat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is all about simple ingredients that pack a punch in flavor, texture, and eye-catching color. Each component truly matters, making Grinch Fudge easy, but absolutely irresistible:

  • White chocolate chips: Choose good-quality chips for the smoothest, creamiest base—your fudge flavor starts here!
  • Sweetened condensed milk: This brings richness and that classic fudge silkiness, ensuring every bite melts in your mouth.
  • Unsalted butter: Just a touch for extra creaminess and to round out the sweetness beautifully.
  • Pinch of salt (optional): Balances all the sweetness, and really brings out the flavors if you like a little contrast.
  • Neon or gel green food coloring: For that unmistakable Grinch-green hue! Gel or neon types make the color extra vibrant without thinning your mixture.
  • Red heart sprinkles (one per square): The adorable finishing touch—place them carefully and each piece gets its own little red heart.

How to Make Grinch Fudge

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by lining an 8×8-inch square baking dish with foil or parchment paper, letting a bit overhang on the sides. This makes it much easier to lift out the fudge later for perfect slicing. A quick prep now saves you a mess later—trust me on this one!

Step 2: Melt the White Chocolate

Place your white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl or use a double-boiler if you prefer. Heat them gently, stirring every 20-30 seconds, until they’re about three-quarters melted. This slow-and-steady method keeps your chocolate silky smooth and prevents any unwanted scorching or graininess.

Step 3: Mix in the Good Stuff

Stir in the sweetened condensed milk, unsalted butter, and a pinch of salt if you’re using it. Continue stirring until everything is completely smooth and all the chocolate has melted. Take your time here—a little patience results in the creamiest Grinch Fudge!

Step 4: Add the Grinch Green Color

Remove the bowl from heat, and add several drops of your neon or gel green food coloring. Fold it in gently, adding more drops as needed, until you achieve that unmistakable Grinchy green. The mixture should be bright and playful—don’t be shy with the color!

Step 5: Pour and Decorate

Pour your now-vibrant green fudge into the prepared pan. Gently tap the pan on the counter to smooth and level the surface. Now for the fun: carefully place one red heart sprinkle on each future serving, creating a neat grid. This ensures every piece of Grinch Fudge gets its own “heart grew three sizes that day” moment!

Step 6: Chill Until Firm

Let the fudge cool to room temperature, then transfer the pan to the refrigerator. Chill for 2 to 4 hours, or until the fudge is set and firm to the touch. If you’re not in a rush, a longer chill (up to 6 hours) makes slicing those clean, sharp edges a breeze.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Lift the chilled fudge from the pan using your foil or parchment “handles.” Cut into squares, aiming so each one spotlights a single heart sprinkle. Now your Grinch Fudge is ready to charm a crowd—serve at room temperature or straight from the fridge!

How to Serve Grinch Fudge

Grinch Fudge Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Grinch Fudge shines with its signature single red heart, but you can sprinkle with a light dusting of edible glitter or gold sugar for a touch of extra sparkle. Tiny white snowflake sprinkles are a sweet choice if you want even more holiday flair—just don’t outshine those adorable red hearts!

Side Dishes

Pair Grinch Fudge with bowls of fresh strawberries or sliced kiwi for a cooling, juicy contrast to the rich sweetness. It also cozies up nicely next to a mug of hot chocolate or peppermint-spiked coffee, especially on chilly December nights.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the fudge squares in a festive holiday tin lined with parchment, or wrap individual pieces in cellophane tied with red and green ribbon for easy, charming gifts. Serving on a cake stand or cheerful tray lets that Grinch-green color take center stage on your dessert table—bonus points if you add some mini ornaments or a tiny Grinch figurine for fun!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Grinch Fudge keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Layer pieces with parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking, and simply take out what you need for snack time, lunchboxes, or those “just one more bite” cravings.

Freezing

If you’d like to enjoy Grinch Fudge beyond the holidays, it freezes beautifully. Place cut squares in a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers, seal tightly, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight for best results before serving.

Reheating

Unlike baked treats, Grinch Fudge doesn’t need reheating! Simply bring it out of the fridge and let it sit on the counter for 10-15 minutes if you prefer a slightly softer texture. The flavors and creaminess are at their best just below room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use candy melts instead of white chocolate chips?

Candy melts work in a pinch but might change the taste and texture. For that rich, creamy classic Grinch Fudge flavor, stick to real white chocolate chips if you can—your taste buds will thank you!

What kind of food coloring gives the brightest green?

Gel or neon green food coloring creates the boldest, most festive shade without watering down your mix. Regular liquid food coloring works, but the color may be less vibrant—definitely give gel a try for that cartoon-perfect Grinch look!

Can I add flavors like peppermint or vanilla?

Absolutely! A teaspoon of vanilla or peppermint extract is a wonderful way to make your Grinch Fudge uniquely yours. Mix it in right after you add the butter and condensed milk for a little holiday twist.

How do I make perfectly clean cuts for serving?

Chill the fudge thoroughly, then use a sharp knife run under hot water and wiped dry between cuts. This helps you get crisp, clean squares with minimal sticking—ideal for showing off those hearts!

Is Grinch Fudge kid-friendly for making and eating?

Definitely! Kids love the colorful process, from stirring in the green coloring to dotting on the red heart sprinkles. Just supervise the melting and ingredient-mixing steps to keep things safe and smooth.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about gathering around a plate of Grinch Fudge—whether you’re watching your favorite Christmas movie or sharing a homemade gift. I hope you’ll give this festive recipe a try and spread a little extra heart (and sweetness!) this holiday season. Enjoy every bite and every smile it brings!

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Grinch Fudge Recipe

Grinch Fudge Recipe

4.7 from 26 reviews

This festive Grinch Fudge is a delightful holiday treat that combines the sweetness of white chocolate with a burst of green coloring, topped with a heart sprinkle for a touch of whimsy.

  • Author: nadia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 1625 pieces 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake / Refrigerator
  • Cuisine: American Holiday / Fun Treat
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Units Scale

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz white chocolate chips
  • 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 Tbsp unsalted butter
  • Pinch of salt (optional)
  • Several drops neon or gel green food coloring
  • Red heart sprinkles (1 per fudge square)

Instructions

  1. Line the Pan: Prepare an 8×8‑inch square baking dish with foil or parchment paper.
  2. Melt Ingredients: Melt white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, butter, and salt until smooth.
  3. Add Color: Stir in green food coloring until vibrant Grinch‑green.
  4. Set Fudge: Pour into the pan, add a red heart sprinkle to each future square, and refrigerate until set.
  5. Serve: Cut into squares with heart centers and enjoy chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Use gel or neon food coloring for best color results.
  • Customize flavor with vanilla or peppermint extract.
  • Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer freshness.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 piece (1 inch square)
  • Calories: 214 kcal
  • Sugar: 28 g
  • Sodium: 93 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.03 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 0.1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 16 mg

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