Sugar Cookie Fudge with Creamy Vanilla Layer

A Festive Fudge for Sweet Celebrations ✨🍪

Every bite of the holiday season should feel special — and this Sugar Cookie Fudge with Creamy Vanilla Layer delivers exactly that. Picture a luscious, buttery sugar cookie fudge base topped with a silky-smooth vanilla layer that melts in your mouth.

It’s the kind of dessert that looks straight out of a bakery display but takes only minutes to make at home. No oven, no complicated equipment — just creamy, dreamy fudge bliss ready for gifting, dessert trays, or late-night indulgence.

This recipe is rich enough for special occasions yet simple enough for beginners, making it one of the most versatile no-bake desserts of the season.

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Why You’ll Love This Sugar Cookie Fudge

• Two layers of perfection: A rich cookie-flavored base with a creamy vanilla top.

• No baking required: Made entirely in the microwave or on the stovetop.

• Festive and elegant: The layered look adds instant holiday charm.

• Perfect texture: Soft, smooth, and just the right amount of sweet.

• Gift-worthy: Pack it up for friends, neighbors, or coworkers — it travels beautifully.

Whether you’re planning a dessert table, filling Christmas cookie boxes, or making edible gifts, this layered fudge adds a touch of elegance to every bite.

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Ingredients for Sugar Cookie Fudge with Creamy Vanilla Layer

For the Sugar Cookie Layer

• 2 ½ cups (425g) white chocolate chips

• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk

• ½ cup dry sugar cookie mix or finely crushed vanilla cookies

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ½ teaspoon butter extract (optional, for richer flavor)

• ⅛ teaspoon salt

• Festive sprinkles (optional, for color)

For the Creamy Vanilla Layer

• 2 cups (340g) white chocolate chips

• ½ can (about 7 ounces) sweetened condensed milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or pure vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

Optional Decorations

• Edible glitter or shimmer dust for sparkle

• Holiday sprinkles or crushed sugar cookies

• A drizzle of melted white chocolate

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Tools You’ll Need

• 8×8-inch square baking pan

• Parchment paper

• Microwave-safe bowls or double boiler

• Spatula

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Offset spatula or knife for layering

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang on the sides. This will help you lift the fudge out easily once it’s set.

Lightly coat the parchment with a small amount of non-stick spray.

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Step 2: Create the Sugar Cookie Layer

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Heat in 30-second intervals at 50% power, stirring well after each round until smooth and fully melted.

Add vanilla extract, butter extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir in the dry sugar cookie mix (or crushed vanilla cookies). The mixture will thicken and take on that nostalgic sugar cookie aroma.

If you’d like a pop of color, fold in a handful of festive sprinkles.

Spread this layer evenly into your prepared pan and smooth the surface using a spatula. Place in the refrigerator to firm up slightly while you prepare the next layer.

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Step 3: Make the Creamy Vanilla Layer

In another bowl, combine 2 cups of white chocolate chips and ½ can sweetened condensed milk. Melt gently in the microwave or over low heat until smooth and creamy.

Add the vanilla bean paste and a pinch of salt, stirring until fully incorporated. The vanilla bean adds a gourmet touch, giving your fudge an elevated flavor and appearance with those beautiful black specks of vanilla.

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Step 4: Layer the Vanilla Fudge

Take the pan from the refrigerator and pour the warm vanilla fudge layer on top of the sugar cookie base. Use an offset spatula to spread evenly, creating a clean, distinct separation between the two layers.

For an extra-festive finish, sprinkle the top with edible glitter, cookie crumbs, or crushed sugar decorations.

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Step 5: Chill to Set

Refrigerate the fudge for at least 3 hours (or overnight if possible) until completely firm.

Once set, lift the fudge from the pan using the parchment overhang and place it on a cutting board.

Use a sharp knife to slice into even squares or rectangles. Wipe your knife between cuts for clean edges that show off those gorgeous layers.

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Step 6: Serve, Gift, and Enjoy

Arrange the fudge on a serving plate or layer it in gift boxes with parchment between pieces.

Whether you serve it on a dessert tray or tuck it into holiday tins, this creamy, buttery treat will bring pure joy to anyone who tastes it.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Layered Fudge

• Use quality chocolate: The smoother the chocolate, the creamier your fudge.

• Don’t rush the layering: Make sure the bottom layer is slightly chilled before pouring the top.

• Avoid overheating: White chocolate burns easily — melt slowly and stir often.

• Get creative: Add a touch of almond extract or a few crushed cookies between layers for added texture.

• Decorate while warm: Sprinkles and glitter stick best before the top layer fully sets.

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Flavor Variations

Sugar Cookie Mocha Fudge

Add a tablespoon of instant coffee to the vanilla layer for a gentle mocha twist.

Almond Sugar Cookie Fudge

Replace the vanilla extract in the base layer with almond extract for a nutty, festive aroma.

Red and White Holiday Fudge

Tint the top vanilla layer with a drop of red gel food coloring for a peppermint candy-inspired look.

Birthday Cookie Fudge

Add rainbow sprinkles throughout both layers for a year-round celebration vibe.

Cookies and Cream Fudge

Mix crushed chocolate sandwich cookies into the vanilla layer for a fun twist.

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How to Store Your Sugar Cookie Fudge

• Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

• Refrigerator: Store for up to 3 weeks for maximum freshness.

• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Pro tip: To prevent sticking, separate layers of fudge with parchment paper when storing or gifting.

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How to Gift Your Layered Fudge 🎁

This fudge makes a thoughtful, homemade gift that feels luxurious but is incredibly easy to make.

Gifting Ideas

• Package squares in decorative tins with festive tissue paper.

• Wrap individual pieces in parchment paper and tie with red ribbon.

• Add custom labels or handwritten gift tags.

• Pair with a jar of hot cocoa mix or a Christmas mug for a cozy touch.

Best Occasions to Gift It

• Christmas cookie exchanges

• Holiday parties and dessert buffets

• Hostess gifts

• Teacher or coworker appreciation

• Stocking stuffers

Every piece looks like it came from a boutique candy shop — yet it’s made right in your kitchen!

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Pairing Suggestions

Serve your layered fudge with:

• Hot cocoa topped with whipped cream for cozy winter nights.

• Peppermint mocha or vanilla latte at holiday brunch.

• Shortbread cookies for a buttery duo.

• Spiced tea or chai for a warm flavor balance.

The smooth vanilla and rich sugar cookie flavors complement just about any winter beverage.

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Troubleshooting Guide

My fudge didn’t set properly.
It may not have chilled long enough. Return to the fridge for another 1–2 hours.

The layers are separating.
Make sure the first layer is slightly set but still tacky before pouring the second layer on top.

The chocolate seized while melting.
This happens if it overheats. Melt gently and add a teaspoon of coconut oil or butter to smooth it out.

The top layer cracked.
That can occur if it cooled too quickly. Let each layer rest at room temperature briefly before chilling.

It’s too sweet for my taste.
Add a pinch more salt or use semi-sweet white chocolate chips to balance the flavor.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

(Based on 36 small squares)

• Calories: 160

• Fat: 6g

• Carbohydrates: 25g

• Sugar: 22g

• Protein: 2g

These are small, indulgent bites meant to be savored — one piece satisfies any sweet craving.

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Creating a Show-Stopping Presentation

To make your layered sugar cookie fudge look as good as it tastes:

1. Cut uniform squares for a polished look.

2. Stack pieces in a pyramid shape on a serving plate.

3. Dust lightly with powdered sugar or edible glitter.

4. Add a few candy canes or sugar cookies around the plate for a festive border.

This fudge photographs beautifully, making it perfect for food gifts or holiday spreads.

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Why Layered Fudge Makes the Holidays Brighter

There’s something so joyful about desserts that look as magical as they taste. The Sugar Cookie Fudge with Creamy Vanilla Layer brings nostalgia and warmth in every bite — like buttery cookies and vanilla frosting wrapped in fudge form.

It’s the kind of dessert that draws “oohs” and “ahhs” at parties and makes your cookie boxes look instantly gourmet.

Best of all, it’s stress-free — a beginner-friendly no-bake recipe that guarantees professional-looking results every time.

Whether you make it with kids, gift it to family, or enjoy it with a cup of cocoa by the fire, this layered fudge will become a cherished holiday tradition.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! This fudge keeps beautifully for up to 3 weeks in the fridge. It’s ideal for early holiday prep.

Can I use candy melts instead of white chocolate?
Yes, though white chocolate chips give a richer flavor. Candy melts may set faster but can be slightly sweeter.

Can I make this dairy-free?
You can use dairy-free white chocolate and coconut condensed milk. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Can I skip the layering step?
If you prefer a simpler version, make the sugar cookie fudge only. It will still be rich and flavorful!

How can I make it extra fancy for parties?
Add a swirl of color between layers or use gold and silver edible glitter for a sparkling finish.

Can I use flavored extracts?
Absolutely! Almond, peppermint, or even orange extract can complement the vanilla beautifully.

Can kids help make it?
Definitely! Since there’s no baking involved, this recipe is a fun and safe project for families.

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A Sweet Ending to Every Holiday Moment 🎀

When the snow is falling, lights are twinkling, and the scent of sugar cookies fills the air, there’s no better treat to share than Sugar Cookie Fudge with Creamy Vanilla Layer.

It’s smooth, buttery, and just the right amount of sweet — a perfect reflection of everything we love about the holidays. Each layer tells a story: one of home, warmth, and simple joy.

So grab your ingredients, make a batch, and savor the sweet magic of the season. Because the best gifts are homemade — and they taste like love.