Valentine’s Sugar Cookie Fudge

This non-alcoholic Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie Fudge blends the nostalgic sweetness of sugar cookies with the creamy richness of fudge. It’s perfect for celebrating love with a special homemade treat that feels both indulgent and light. Each bite melts in your mouth, carrying delicate vanilla notes and a festive crunch from heart-shaped sprinkles. Whether you want to gift a batch to friends or enjoy a loving moment with yourself, this fudge is a charming and delicious choice.

I first made this fudge for a Galentine’s gathering and was amazed how quickly it disappeared. Now it’s a recipe friends always ask me to bring because it’s both pretty and delicious.

Ingredients

• Sugar: two cups for sweetness and structure that holds the fudge together
• Unsalted butter: one cup adds a creamy richness and smooth texture
• Sweetened condensed milk: one cup ensures the fudge is moist and luscious
• White chocolate chips: two cups create the silky fudge base with sweet flavor
• All-purpose flour: three cups provides the cookie-like body and binds ingredients
• Vanilla extract: one teaspoon infuses warmth and enhances overall aroma
• Baking powder: half a teaspoon lightens the fudge slightly for a soft texture
• Heart-shaped sprinkles: one cup add festive color and a fun crunch

Choose fresh unsalted butter and high-quality white chocolate chips for the best melt and flavor. Use pure vanilla extract for a clean, aromatic finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Baking Pan:

Line a 9 by 9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving extra to easily lift the fudge out when set. This prevents sticking and helps with clean cuts.

Melt the Butter and Chocolate:

In a medium saucepan, gently melt the butter and white chocolate chips over low heat. Stir often to combine until smooth and lump-free, about five to seven minutes. Slow melting avoids burning and ensures a creamy base.

Combine Sugar and Condensed Milk:

Remove the pan from heat. Whisk in the sugar and sweetened condensed milk fully until the mixture appears glossy and thick. This creates the fudgy texture.

Add Vanilla and Baking Powder:

Stir in vanilla extract and baking powder carefully. The baking powder lightens the fudge to mimic a cookie-like softness.

Incorporate the Flour:

Slowly fold in the all-purpose flour, mixing gently to keep an airy texture. Check that the batter is smooth without dry flour pockets.

Mix in the Sprinkles:

Gently fold in the heart-shaped sprinkles so they are evenly spread through the fudge mixture. The sprinkles add festive charm without affecting texture.

Pour into Baking Pan:

Transfer the mixture evenly into your prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth the surface for clean lines when slicing.

Chill and Set:

Refrigerate the fudge for at least two hours until firm but not rock hard. The fudge should be easily cut into perfect squares when set.

Bookmark

The vanilla extract is my favorite ingredient because it lifts the whole flavor with a subtle warmth. Once I made a batch for my kids’ class party and it became the talk of the classroom. Seeing their joy made me appreciate how simple ingredients can create special moments.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the fudge fresh for up to two weeks. For longer storage, tightly wrap the fudge in plastic wrap and foil then freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

• For a dairy-free version, replace butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free white chocolate chips
• Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to make it gluten free
• Try almond or peppermint extract in place of vanilla for a flavor twist
• Add chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds for extra texture and a nutty contrast

Serving Suggestions

This sugar cookie fudge pairs beautifully with cold milk or a warm cup of hot chocolate to balance the sweetness. Serve alongside chocolate-covered strawberries or a fresh fruit platter to create a varied and festive dessert spread.

Cultural Context

Combining sugar cookies with fudge brings together two classic American sweets in a new way. Sugar cookies are a holiday staple known for their buttery vanilla flavor and crisp but tender crumb. Fudge has a long tradition as a rich and creamy candy often associated with festive seasons. Merging these favorites captures the spirit of Valentine’s Day as a time of sweetness and celebration.

Pro Tips

• Melt chocolate and butter on low heat to avoid burning and seizing the mixture
• Chill fudge thoroughly before cutting for clean squares and ideal texture
• Let fudge sit at room temperature a few minutes before slicing to prevent cracking

Common Recipe Questions

→ What gives this fudge its sugar cookie flavor?

A mix of vanilla extract, butter, and all-purpose flour creates the distinctive sugar cookie taste and texture within the fudge.

→ Can I use different types of chocolate?

While white chocolate is used for its sweetness and creaminess, you can substitute milk or dark chocolate for a richer, deeper flavor.

→ How important is chilling the fudge?

Chilling allows the fudge to set properly, developing a firm yet soft texture that's perfect for slicing and serving.

→ Are the sprinkles baked into the fudge?

The heart-shaped sprinkles are gently folded in before setting, adding a festive look without affecting the fudgy texture.

→ What’s the best way to store leftover fudge?

Keep leftover fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze tightly wrapped for longer storage.

→ Can I make this dessert gluten-free?

Yes, by replacing all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, you can enjoy this fudge without gluten.