Welcome to your new favorite dessert! This easy, no-bake marshmallow swirl fudge recipe delivers a decadent treat with minimal effort. Imagine rich, smooth chocolate interwoven with gooey, sweet marshmallow ribbons.
It’s an impressive dessert that only looks complicated. This simple process yields truly spectacular results, perfect for homemade gifts, special occasions, or simply satisfying a sweet craving.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Marshmallow Swirl Fudge
You’ll adore making this delightful marshmallow swirl fudge for so many reasons. It requires zero baking skills, making it truly beginner-friendly. Each bite delivers a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s incredibly satisfying.
The rich, deep chocolate flavor perfectly balances the sweet marshmallow. You’ll love the heavenly marshmallow ribbons visible in every square. Best of all, there’s no candy thermometer needed, simplifying the process.
This recipe offers make-ahead convenience, and provides endless customization options for creative cooks.
Ingredients for Marshmallow Swirl Fudge
Gathering your ingredients for this smooth, dreamy marshmallow swirl fudge is the first step to deliciousness. These simple items combine to create an unforgettable treat.
- 2 cups (12 oz) semi-sweet chocolate chips: These form the rich, dark base of your fudge. Semi-sweet offers a balanced chocolate flavor.
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk: This provides the sweetness and creamy, binding texture for the fudge. It helps it set without boiling.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile, complementing the chocolate.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: A tiny pinch of salt balances the sweetness and brings out the chocolate flavor.
- 1 cup marshmallow fluff: This creates the signature gooey, soft white swirls throughout your fudge.
Notes & Substitutions
You have flexibility with many of these ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Chocolate Chip Type: Feel free to use milk chocolate, dark chocolate chips, or even a mix for different flavor intensities. High-quality chocolate always yields better results.
- Dairy-Free Options: Use dairy-free sweetened condensed milk and a plant-based butter alternative to make this fudge vegan. Ensure your chocolate chips are also dairy-free.
- Vanilla Extract: Experiment with almond extract or peppermint extract for a fun twist on the classic flavor.
- Marshmallows vs. Fluff: While marshmallow fluff is ideal for smooth swirls, you can roughly chop mini marshmallows and stir them into the fudge for a “rocky road” texture if you don’t mind a less defined swirl. Understanding the differences between marshmallow fluff and mini marshmallows can help you achieve your desired consistency in recipes.
Essential Equipment
You only need a few basic kitchen tools to make this easy fudge recipe.
- 8×8-inch baking dish: This ensures your fudge sets into a perfect square, ready for cutting.
- Parchment paper: Essential for easy removal of the set fudge from the dish.
- Medium saucepan: Use this to gently melt the chocolate base ingredients.
- Rubber spatula: Perfect for stirring and spreading the fudge mixture evenly.
- Sharp knife: You will use this tool for cutting clean squares of fudge once it is firm.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Marshmallow Swirl Fudge
Making this incredible marshmallow swirl fudge is surprisingly simple. Follow these steps for perfect results every time. Take your time with each stage for the best texture and appearance.
Preparation Steps
First, prepare your baking dish. Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Allow some paper to hang over the edges; this creates “handles” to easily lift the set fudge later. This step ensures your beautiful marshmallow swirl fudge won’t stick.
Making the Chocolate Fudge Base
Combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter in a medium saucepan. Place the saucepan over low heat. Gently melt the ingredients, stirring constantly with a rubber spatula.
This process takes approximately 3-5 minutes, ensuring everything combines smoothly. Once the mixture is completely smooth and glossy, remove the saucepan from the heat. Immediately stir in the vanilla extract and salt until fully incorporated.
Creating the Marshmallow Swirl
Quickly pour the warm chocolate mixture into your prepared lined baking dish. Use your spatula to spread the chocolate base evenly across the bottom of the dish.
Next, drop spoonfuls of marshmallow fluff directly on top of the warm chocolate fudge. The warmth helps the fluff soften slightly. Take a knife and gently swirl the marshmallow into the chocolate. Do not overmix; you want distinct ribbons and pockets of marshmallow, not a blended color.
Chilling and Serving
Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours, or until it is completely firm. This chilling time is crucial for proper setting. Once fully set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire block of fudge from the dish.
Place it on a cutting board. Cut the marshmallow swirl fudge into desired squares using a sharp knife. Enjoy your homemade treat!
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting for Perfect Fudge
Achieve the best results with these simple tricks and solutions.
Pro Tips
- Always use high-quality chocolate chips for superior flavor.
- Maintain a low, slow melting heat to prevent scorching the chocolate.
- Ensure your marshmallow fluff is at room temperature for easier swirling.
- Avoid overworking the marshmallow swirls; gentle strokes create defined patterns.
- Chill the fudge thoroughly for at least two hours to ensure it sets firmly.
- Trim the edges of the set fudge for a neat, professional finish before cutting.
- Consider humidity when setting; very humid environments can sometimes affect fudge firmness. High humidity can cause fudge to remain soft and take longer to set, as highlighted by Wockenfuss Candies. Understanding how humidity affects fudge can help in troubleshooting.
Common Troubleshooting
- Fudge is too soft? Simply return it to the refrigerator and chill for a longer period.
- Grainy texture? This often happens from melting chocolate too quickly or at too high a heat. Melt ingredients slowly and gently over low heat.
- Marshmallow disappeared? This can occur if the fudge base is too hot when you add the fluff. Allow the chocolate to cool slightly for 5-10 minutes before swirling.
- Fudge sticking to the knife? Dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry between cuts for clean slices.
Serving, Storage & Variations
This versatile marshmallow swirl fudge is perfect for any occasion.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve squares of this delightful fudge on a dessert platter alongside fresh berries or cookies.
- Enjoy it slightly warmed for an extra gooey treat, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- It pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate.
- Package individual pieces in decorative bags or boxes to create beautiful, homemade holiday gifts.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store your marshmallow swirl fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This keeps it firm and fresh.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months.
- Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen fudge at room temperature for a few hours, or overnight in the refrigerator.
Creative Variations
- S’mores Fudge: Press a layer of graham cracker crumbs into the bottom of your lined dish before pouring the fudge. Garnish with more crumbs and mini marshmallows.
- Rocky Road Fudge: Fold in chopped nuts (like walnuts or almonds) and additional mini marshmallows into the chocolate base before adding the fluff swirls.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Gently warm 1/2 cup of peanut butter and swirl it into the fudge alongside the marshmallow fluff for a nutty flavor.
- Mint Chocolate Fudge: Add 1/2 teaspoon of mint extract to the chocolate base. You can also add a few drops of green food coloring for a festive touch.
- Cookies & Cream: Mix in 1 cup of crushed Oreo cookies into the chocolate fudge base before pouring it into the dish.
- Salted Caramel: Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the fudge after swirling the marshmallow, then sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
Nutrition Information
This marshmallow swirl fudge provides a satisfying treat in moderation. Remember these values are estimates.
| Nutrient | Per Square (estimated) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 225 |
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can mini marshmallows replace fluff?
Yes, you can use mini marshmallows, but they create a different texture. Stir them into the warm fudge instead of swirling, and they will melt slightly, creating chewy pockets.
What causes grainy fudge?
Grainy fudge typically results from overheating the chocolate mixture. Keep the heat low and melt slowly to ensure a smooth consistency.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a larger dish, like a 9×13-inch baking dish, and double all ingredients for a bigger batch.
Conclusion
This irresistible marshmallow swirl fudge proves that decadent treats don’t require complicated techniques. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a show-stopping dessert that tastes like pure indulgence.
Its versatility makes it perfect for holiday platters, thoughtful gifts, or a simple weeknight treat. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try and share your creations! We can’t wait to see your beautiful marshmallow swirls.
Marshmallow Swirl Fudge
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Line an 8×8‑inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir constantly until melted and smooth (about 3–5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt until fully combined.
- Pour the warm chocolate mixture into the prepared dish, spreading evenly.
- Drop spoonfuls of marshmallow fluff over the chocolate layer. Use a knife to gently swirl the marshmallow into the chocolate, forming ribbons. Be careful not to over‑mix.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is firm.
- Use the parchment overhang to lift the fudge block from the dish. Place on a cutting board and slice into squares with a sharp knife. Serve or store.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use high‑quality chocolate chips for the best flavor.
- Melt the chocolate base over low heat and stir gently to prevent graininess.
- Allow the melted fudge to cool slightly before adding marshmallow fluff so the swirls stay distinct.
- Chill fully for at least 2 hours to ensure firm setting.
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