Vampire Fudge Recipe
Vampire Fudge is a fun, rich treat that's perfect for Halloween or whenever you want a little chocolatey excitement. This fudge is super creamy and usually has hints of peppermint…
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Vampire Fudge is a fun, rich treat that’s perfect for Halloween or whenever you want a little chocolatey excitement. This fudge is super creamy and usually has hints of peppermint or a bold bite from a splash of something like coffee or cherry, making it a bit different from your regular sweet fudge. It has a smooth texture that melts in your mouth, paired with just a tiny spooky twist in flavor or decoration to make it extra special.
I love making Vampire Fudge because it’s simple to whip up, but it feels like a festive treat that impresses everyone. Adding a bit of red food coloring or some vampire-themed sprinkles makes it feel playful and perfect for sharing with friends or family during a celebration. I always find that cutting it into small squares makes it easier to have more than one – which is totally allowed!
My favorite way to enjoy this fudge is with a warm cup of tea or just on its own as a quick pick-me-up. It’s one of those sweets that makes you smile right away, especially when you serve it around Halloween parties or cozy nights in. If you’re a fan of darker flavors with a little fun twist, Vampire Fudge will soon become your go-to treat for the season or just any day you want a bit of chocolate magic.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chocolate chips
- Semisweet chocolate chips provide a deep, rich base. You can swap for dark chocolate chips for a more intense flavor or milk chocolate chips if you want it sweeter and creamier.
- Sweetened condensed milk
- This is essential for creamy, smooth fudge. For a dairy-free option, try coconut condensed milk, but note flavor changes a bit.
- Red food coloring
- Use gel food coloring for vibrant red without thinning the fudge. If you prefer natural options, beet juice powder works but may alter the flavor slightly.
- Cocoa powder
- Adds that classic red velvet slight chocolate taste. Dutch-processed cocoa works best for rich color and flavor, but unsweetened cocoa is fine too.
- Butter and vanilla extract
- These bring richness and depth. Use salted butter if that's what you have, reducing the added salt in the recipe.
- Black swirl
- Use black food coloring mixed into melted white chocolate or black cocoa powder combined with melted chocolate to get those striking dark patterns. If black food coloring isn’t handy, dark cocoa powder is a natural alternative.
How Do You Make Smooth, Beautiful Swirls in Vampire Fudge?
Swirling is a fun step but can be tricky. Here’s how to get those cool vampire-style marbled patterns:
- After pouring the red velvet layer, drop small spoonfuls of melted white and black chocolate randomly over the surface.
- Use a toothpick or skewer to gently drag through the spots, making swirls without mixing the colors too much.
- Work quickly before the fudge starts setting to get clear, sharp designs.
- A light hand is key—don’t over-swirl or the colors will blend too much and lose the effect.
By taking your time and using these steps, you’ll get eye-catching swirls that look like vampire art ready to impress your friends.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 8×8 inch square baking pan – perfect size for firm fudge and easy slicing.
- Parchment paper – stops fudge from sticking and helps lift it out neatly.
- Medium saucepan – melts chocolate evenly without burning.
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula – great for stirring the thick fudge mixture.
- Toothpick or skewer – essential for creating those cool swirl patterns on top.
- Sharp knife – makes clean, smooth cuts for pretty fudge squares.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap semisweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a richer, deeper flavor.
- Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract in the red velvet layer for a minty twist that feels spooky and fresh.
- Mix in chopped nuts like pecans or almonds in the chocolate layer for a crunchy contrast.
- Try swirling in a bit of raspberry jam with the black and white chocolate for a fruity surprise and vibrant taste.
How to Make Vampire Fudge?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chocolate Fudge Layer:
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Red Velvet Fudge Layer:
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Black and White Swirl:
- ¼ cup white chocolate chips (melted, for white spots)
- Black food coloring or black cocoa powder mixed with melted white chocolate for the black swirl
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and mix the two fudge layers, plus at least 4 hours of chilling time to let the fudge fully set. So, plan ahead and give yourself some time to create this tasty treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pan:
Line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper. Leave some overhang on the sides to make lifting out the fudge easier later on.
2. Make the Chocolate Fudge Base:
In a medium saucepan on low heat, combine semisweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir continuously until smooth and fully melted. Pour the chocolate fudge evenly into your prepared pan. Put it in the fridge to chill while you prepare the next layer.
3. Make the Red Velvet Fudge Layer:
Using a clean saucepan, combine white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, butter, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and salt over low heat. Stir until everything melts and becomes smooth. Add the red food coloring and mix until the color is even. Pour this red velvet mixture carefully over the chocolate fudge base.
4. Create the Vampire Swirls:
Drop small spoonfuls of melted white chocolate and black-tinted melted white chocolate (or black cocoa mixture) over the red velvet layer. Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the colors, making a marbled, spooky vampire-inspired design. Don’t overmix, so the pattern stays bold!
5. Chill and Set:
Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or until the fudge is firm and fully set.
6. Slice and Serve:
When set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Use a sharp knife to cut into neat squares. Store your fudge in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
Enjoy your delicious, colorful Vampire Fudge – perfect for a festive treat or sharing with friends and family!
Can I Use Frozen Chocolate Chips for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chocolate chips, but make sure to let them come to room temperature before melting. This helps them melt evenly and prevents clumping in your fudge.
Can I Make Vampire Fudge Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The fudge can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and take it out a little before serving to soften slightly.
How Should I Store Leftover Vampire Fudge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze the fudge for up to 2 months – thaw in the fridge before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Red Food Coloring?
If you prefer natural options, beet juice powder or pomegranate juice can be used, though the color may be less vibrant and the flavor slightly different. Gel food coloring is best for a bright, intense red without affecting consistency.