If you are looking to fill your holiday dessert table with a burst of fun and festive color, this Grinch Green Fudge Recipe with Marshmallow and Red Heart Sprinkles Recipe is an absolute must-try. The rich, creamy white chocolate base melds beautifully with the fluffy marshmallow cream, creating a luscious texture that’s perfectly complemented by the playful pop of bright green color. Topped with charming red heart sprinkles, this fudge captures the whimsical spirit of the season and makes every bite feel like a joyful celebration. Whether you’re making it for family gatherings or gifting to neighbors, this recipe promises a delightful experience from start to finish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this fudge is refreshingly straightforward, but each component plays an essential role in achieving the perfect creamy texture, vibrant color, and sweet, smooth flavor. Combining pantry staples with a few festive touches makes this recipe approachable and rewarding.
- 16 ounces white chocolate chips: These provide the silky, sweet base that melts into pure decadence.
- 1/2 cup marshmallow cream: Adds lightness and fluffy texture, ensuring the fudge isn’t too dense.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances depth of flavor with subtle warmth and sweetness.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: The essential sweetener that caramelizes to create that classic fudge firmness.
- 1 cup evaporated milk: Offers creaminess and helps achieve the smooth, fudge-like consistency.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Richness and silkiness come from the butter, preventing the fudge from becoming grainy.
- Bright green gel food coloring: Provides that iconic Grinch-green hue that’s vibrant without altering taste.
- Red heart sprinkles: Add a playful, festive contrast and a bit of fun crunch on top.
How to Make Grinch Green Fudge Recipe with Marshmallow and Red Heart Sprinkles Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This step is crucial because it makes removing your fudge from the pan a breeze. Prepping the pan ahead also ensures you can get right to cooling the fudge once it’s ready.
Step 2: Mix the White Chocolate, Marshmallow Cream, and Vanilla
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the white chocolate chips, marshmallow cream, and vanilla extract. Set this mixture aside for now. This blend will create the luscious, creamy foundation to which you’ll add the sugar mixture later, making for the fudge’s classic dreamy texture.
Step 3: Cook the Sugar Mixture
In a heavy saucepan, stir together granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and unsalted butter. Place over medium heat, stirring gently until the butter melts and everything is well blended. This perfect base is what will give your fudge structure and sweetness.
Step 4: Boil the Mixture
Let the sugar mixture come to a boil, then allow it to bubble undisturbed for 10 minutes. Timing here is key since this cooking step caramelizes the sugars properly to give you that classic fudge firmness without it setting too hard or remaining too sticky.
Step 5: Combine the Mixtures
Pour the hot sugar mixture over your white chocolate and marshmallow cream bowl. Let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes so the heat starts melting the chocolate gently. Then, mix the two together using a mixer on medium-low speed until the fudge mixture thickens.
Step 6: Add the Green Color
Now comes the fun! Add your bright green gel food coloring a little at a time, mixing until you get the perfect vibrant Grinch green shade. The gel coloring ensures your fudge is brilliantly festive without watering down the consistency.
Step 7: Spread and Decorate
Pour the luscious green fudge into the prepared pan, smoothing it evenly. Sprinkle the top generously with red heart sprinkles—they not only add a pop of contrasting color but also give a delightful texture contrast that’s visually stunning and super fun.
Step 8: Chill to Set
Place your fudge in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until firm. This cooling step is essential for cutting the fudge into perfect squares that hold their shape while still being soft and creamy inside.
How to Serve Grinch Green Fudge Recipe with Marshmallow and Red Heart Sprinkles Recipe
Garnishes
While the red heart sprinkles are already a showstopper, adding a few festive touches such as crushed candy canes or a light dusting of edible glitter can elevate the presentation further. These garnishes enhance both the look and give a unique texture twist to your Grinch Green Fudge Recipe with Marshmallow and Red Heart Sprinkles Recipe.
Side Dishes
This fudge pairs wonderfully with warm beverages like peppermint hot chocolate or spiced eggnog for a sweet and comforting holiday treat. Serving it alongside a cheese platter can also provide a delightful balance—the rich creaminess of the fudge contrasting beautifully against salty, savory bites.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your fudge into fun shapes using small cookie cutters for an extra festive flair. Arrange the squares on a themed platter or a tiered dessert stand garnished with fresh cranberries and pine sprigs for a centerpiece-worthy holiday dessert that everyone will admire and want to dive into.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Keeping it sealed tight helps maintain its soft, creamy texture and prevents it from absorbing any unwanted fridge odors.
Freezing
This fudge freezes beautifully if you want to prepare it well ahead of time. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen fudge can last up to three months, making it a great make-ahead holiday treat.
Reheating
If your fudge feels a bit too firm after refrigeration or freezing, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving as this can melt the texture unevenly and change the fudge’s consistency.
FAQs
Can I use regular food coloring instead of gel?
Gel food coloring is preferred because it provides intense color without affecting the fudge’s texture. Regular liquid food coloring can thin the mixture and may require more to achieve the same vibrant green, which can impact the consistency.
Is marshmallow cream necessary in this recipe?
Yes, marshmallow cream is key for adding that extra fluffiness and smooth texture. It also helps the fudge set properly without becoming grainy or too dense.
Why do I need to boil the sugar mixture for 10 minutes?
Boiling undisturbed for 10 minutes ensures the sugar caramelizes just right, which is crucial for achieving the proper fudge consistency. Stirring or shortening this time can lead to fudge that is too soft or too hard.
Can I substitute white chocolate chips with something else?
White chocolate chips are ideal as they melt smoothly and have the right sweetness and fat content. Substituting with vanilla-flavored candy melts could work, but avoid using regular chocolate chips as they can change the taste and texture significantly.
How long does it take for the fudge to set?
Chilling the fudge for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator is required. Depending on your fridge and fudge thickness, it might take a little longer, so keep an eye on it until it’s firm but still soft enough to cut cleanly.
Final Thoughts
This Grinch Green Fudge Recipe with Marshmallow and Red Heart Sprinkles Recipe is a joyful, festive twist on classic fudge that brings playful holiday cheer straight to your dessert table. Its simplicity and vibrant look make it a fantastic choice whether you’re an experienced baker or a fun-loving kitchen newbie. Trust me, once you try it, this luscious green treat will become a beloved seasonal tradition you’ll want to share with everyone. So grab your ingredients and get ready to whip up some sweet, colorful magic!
