Sugar Cookie Fudge with Cream Cheese

Why This Sugar Cookie Fudge with Cream Cheese Works

When you imagine sugar cookies topped with cream‑cheese frosting, you’re thinking buttery base + tangy sweet frosting. This fudge recipe captures that same pleasure, but in a richer, creamier form: fudge. By combining the sugar cookie flavour base with a hint of tangy cream cheese flavour—either integrated into the fudge or added as a drizzle—you create something special, different from standard fudge.

Here’s what makes this version stand out:

• Buttery vanilla base: Emulates the sugar cookie flavour we all love.

• Cream‑cheese note: Adds that tangy contrast which elevates sweetness and stops it from feeling one‑dimensional.

• Fudge texture: Rich, creamy, melt‑in‑your‑mouth—more indulgent than a simple cookie.

• Elaborate but accessible: Looks special, tastes gourmet, yet uses simple techniques and ingredients.

• Holiday‑appropriate: Works beautifully for festive dessert tables, gift boxes, cookie exchanges or just a decadent treat at home.

If you’re looking to go beyond the ordinary dessert this holiday season and deliver something that tastes like a frosted sugar cookie turned fudge, this recipe hits the mark.

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Ingredients & Notes

Below is the ingredient list for a standard tray (roughly 20‑24 squares), along with notes to help ensure top results.

Ingredients

• 12 oz (about 340 g) white chocolate chips or finely chopped white chocolate

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

• ¼ cup (56 g) unsalted butter

• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

• ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional, for cookie‑dough nuance)

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 cup finely crushed plain sugar cookies (about 8‑10 cookies)

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened (at room temperature)

• ½ cup powdered sugar

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for cream cheese drizzle)

• Optional toppings: white chocolate shavings, extra crushed sugar cookies, colourful sprinkles

Ingredient Notes

• White chocolate: Use a quality brand of white chocolate for smooth texture and true richness.

• Sweetened condensed milk: This serves as the creamy binder and allows the fudge to set without complex candy steps.

• Butter: Adds richness and supports the “sugar cookie” flavour profile.

• Vanilla & almond extracts: Vanilla is essential to replicate sugar‑cookie flavour; almond extract is optional and subtle.

• Salt: A small amount helps balance very sweet ingredients.

• Crushed sugar cookies: Adds texture and reinforces the “sugar cookie” base, rather than just vanilla fudge.

• Cream cheese + powdered sugar + vanilla (drizzle layer): This is the tangy frosting note turned into a drizzle over or even swirled into the fudge.

• Optional toppings: White chocolate shavings add elegance; extra crushed cookie bits and sprinkles add texture and visual appeal.

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Tools & Prep Essentials

• 8″×8″ or 9″×9″ square baking pan

• Parchment paper or foil to line the pan with an overhang for easy removal

• Medium saucepan

• Heat‑proof rubber spatula or wooden spoon

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Sharp knife for cutting squares

• Small bowl for cream‑cheese drizzle mixture

• Small bowl for toppings (shavings, cookie crumbs, sprinkles)

• Airtight container for storage/gifting

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Step‑by‑Step Instructions

Step 1: Line Your Pan

Line the baking pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving an overhang on two sides so you can lift the fudge out later. Lightly grease the liner for easier removal.

Step 2: Melt the Base

In a medium saucepan over low‑medium heat:

1. Add the butter and melt gently.

2. Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and stir until warmed and edges begin to steam lightly—do not boil vigorously.

3. Add the white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate. Stir constantly until completely smooth.

4. Remove from heat promptly once melted.

Step 3: Add Flavor & Mix‑Ins

Stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, optional almond extract, and salt. Then fold in the crushed sugar cookies until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Prepare Cream Cheese Drizzle

In a small mixing bowl:

1. Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.

2. Add the powdered sugar and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.

3. Transfer this drizzle mixture to a piping bag or small zip‑lock bag (cut a small corner) for controlled swirling.

Step 5: Pour Fudge Base & Drizzle

1. Pour the fudge base into the prepared lined pan and smooth the top with your spatula.

2. Pipe or dollop lines of the cream‑cheese mixture across the top of the fudge.

3. Use a skewer or toothpick to gently swirl the cream‑cheese drizzle into the fudge surface for a marbled look.

4. Immediately sprinkle the optional toppings (white chocolate shavings, extra crushed cookie crumbs, sprinkles) evenly across the top, pressing lightly to adhere.

Step 6: Chill Until Set

Cover the pan loosely with foil or plastic wrap. Place in the refrigerator and chill for at least 3‑4 hours, or ideally overnight, until the fudge is fully set and firm enough to cut cleanly.

Step 7: Cut and Serve

1. Using the parchment overhang, lift the fudge slab from the pan.

2. Use a sharp knife (warm the blade under hot water, dry it) to cut into squares—1½‑inch squares yield about 20‑24 pieces.

3. Arrange on a platter or decorative liners, or package into gift boxes/tins as desired.

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Tips for Best Results

• Maintain low, controlled heat when melting to avoid burning or graininess.

• Ensure your saucepan and utensils are completely dry—especially important when melting white chocolate.

• Use high‑quality white chocolate for better melt, flavour and finish.

• Don’t skip the salt—it enhances and balances sweetness.

• The cream cheese must be softened before mixing for a smooth drizzle.

• Swirl the cream‑cheese layer gently; over‑swirling may blend too much and lose the marbled look.

• Chill thoroughly before cutting to ensure clean squares and proper texture.

• For cleaner cuts: wipe the knife blade between cuts and warm it slightly.

• Store in an airtight container, preferably chilled if your room is warm.

• For gifting: layer squares between parchment, keep cool, and include a note to keep refrigerated if necessary.

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Variation & Customisation Ideas

• Cinnamon‑sugar twist: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon to the base and top with cinnamon sugar instead of sprinkles.

• Berry cream‑cheese swirl: Replace part of the cream cheese with a strawberry or raspberry version, swirl lightly for a pink tone.

• Cookies & cream variation: Use crushed chocolate sandwich cookies instead of sugar cookies and top with chocolate shavings and white chocolate drizzle.

• Gluten‑free version: Use gluten‑free plain sugar cookies for the crushed cookie portion and gluten‑free sprinkles.

• Vegan adaptation: Use vegan white chocolate alternative, plant‑based condensed milk substitute, vegan butter, vegan cream cheese and vegan‑friendly sprinkles.

• Mini fudge bites: Use a mini muffin tin lined with mini liners; fill with base, chill, drizzle cream cheese, top—perfect for mini servings.

• Gift jar version: Instead of placing the fudge in a pan, cube and layer it in small gift jars with parchment sheets and ribbons—makes a lovely edible gift.

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Presentation & Serving Suggestions

• Place fudge squares on a white or marble board with cookie crumbs and white chocolate shavings scattered around for a gourmet look.

• Use mini cupcake liners for each square and serve on a tiered dessert stand at holiday parties.

• Wrap individual squares in clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbon for easy party favors or edible gifts.

• Label your tray: “Creamy Sugar Cookie Fudge with Cream Cheese Swirl” so guests know the flavour.

• Serve alongside complimentary desserts like vanilla cupcakes, sugar cookies, or mini cheesecakes—this fudge bridges cookie and cheesecake flavours.

• Pair with warm beverages such as coffee, chai latte, or cocoa—the tangy cream‑cheese note cuts through richness and pairs beautifully with warm drinks.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this fudge much harder than regular fudge?
No—it’s only slightly more complex because of the cream‑cheese drizzle. The base is essentially the same as a simple fudge recipe (melt, mix, chill). The drizzle step adds a decorative flair but is straightforward.

How long will the fudge stay fresh?
If stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it will keep best for up to 5–7 days. At room temperature (in a cooler environment) it may last 2‑3 days, but refrigerating ensures firmness and flavour.

Can I freeze this fudge?
Yes—wrap the cut squares or entire block in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.

Why did my fudge not set well or turned too soft?
Possible causes: used too large a pan (making the layer too thin), chilled insufficient time, or ingredients ratio slightly off. Be sure to chill fully and follow recommended pan size.

Can I skip the cream‑cheese drizzle?
Yes—you can omit the cream cheese drizzle for a simpler version. The fudge will still taste great, though you’ll lose the tangy feature. For an easier version, you could mix a smaller amount of cream cheese into the base rather than drizzle.

What size should I cut the squares?
1½‑inch squares are standard and give about 20‑24 pieces from an 8″×8″ pan. You can cut smaller for more servings or larger for a generous dessert piece.

Does the use of cream cheese make it very tangy?
No—the amount used is moderate, so you get a gentle tang that complements the sweetness rather than overpowering it. The dominant flavour remains sweet sugar cookie/vanilla, with a slight cream‑cheese whisper.

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Why This Recipe Will Be a Holiday Favorite

Desserts that deliver familiarity with a twist become favorites. This sugar cookie fudge with cream cheese is that kind of recipe—it offers the beloved cookie flavour, the richness of fudge, and a swirled cream‑cheese element that makes it feel elevated. It works for so many occasions during the holidays: dessert tables, gift boxes, cookie swaps, party trays or even a quiet night in.

It’s easy enough to make but looks beautiful and tastes special. When guests see the swirl and the white‑chocolate shavings, they’ll assume you’ve spent hours crafting it—while you’ll know you pulled it together efficiently. That’s the ideal holiday dessert: impressive, memorable, and manageable.