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Every time I make this Red Velvet Swirl Fudge it feels like creating edible art. The way those red swirls dance through the creamy white chocolate base is absolutely mesmerizing. I discovered this recipe during holiday baking season and now it's become my signature treat that friends and family request year round.
Why You'll Love This Fudge
The magic of this fudge isn't just its stunning looks it's how surprisingly simple it is to create something so impressive. That combination of smooth white chocolate and rich red velvet swirls creates the most beautiful patterns. Every batch turns out uniquely gorgeous making it perfect for those special occasions when you want to wow everyone.
Ingredients You'll Need
- For the Base: 3 cups granulated sugar, 3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened), 2/3 cup half-and-half cream, 2 cups white chocolate chips, 7 oz jar marshmallow crème, 2 tsp vanilla extract
- For the Swirl: 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, 3 tbsp red food coloring
- Equipment: 9x9-inch baking pan, parchment paper, large saucepan, microwave-safe bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pan
- Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Cook the Base
- In a large saucepan, combine sugar, butter, and half-and-half. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture gently boils. Let boil for 4–5 minutes.
- Mix White Fudge
- Remove saucepan from heat. Stir in white chocolate chips, marshmallow crème, and vanilla until completely smooth.
- Make Red Mixture
- Microwave semi-sweet chocolate chips in 20-second intervals, stirring until melted. Mix in red food coloring for an even color.
- Swirl and Set
- Pour white mixture into the prepared pan. Dollop red mixture on top and swirl gently with a knife to create a marbled effect. Let set at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for 2 hours.
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Pro Tips for Success
Through lots of trial and error I've found that using really good quality white chocolate makes such a difference in the texture. I keep my knife clean between swirls to keep those red patterns looking sharp and beautiful. And that gel food coloring? It's worth seeking out for the most vibrant red you can imagine.
Serving Suggestions
I love arranging these little squares on my grandmother's silver platter for parties they look like jewels. For gifting I'll package them in pretty boxes lined with wax paper sometimes adding a sprinkle of edible glitter on top for extra sparkle. They're always the first thing to disappear from holiday dessert tables.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
When I'm planning ahead for the holidays I'll make several batches and freeze them. They keep beautifully wrapped in plastic and foil just remember to let them thaw slowly in the fridge. At room temperature they'll stay fresh for about a week but honestly they rarely last that long in my house.
Customization Ideas
Sometimes I'll switch things up using different chocolate combinations or adding crushed peppermint during the holidays. My kids love helping create new color combinations for different celebrations pink for Valentine's Day green for St. Patrick's Day. The possibilities are endless.
Final Thoughts
This Red Velvet Swirl Fudge has brought so much joy to my kitchen and to everyone who tries it. There's something special about creating something that's both beautiful and delicious. Whether you're making it for a party or as gifts it's guaranteed to make people smile and isn't that what sharing treats is all about?
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why did my fudge turn grainy?
- Graininess usually occurs from sugar crystals forming. Make sure to stir constantly while cooking and avoid scraping the sides of the pan where sugar crystals can form.
- → How do I store this fudge?
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or refrigerate for up to 3 weeks. Layer pieces with wax paper to prevent sticking.
- → Can I freeze this fudge?
- Yes, wrap well in plastic wrap then foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- → Why didn't my swirls turn out?
- Work quickly when creating swirls as the fudge starts setting fast. Don't overmix or the colors will blend together instead of creating distinct swirls.
- → Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
- While you can use milk chocolate, semi-sweet provides better contrast with the white chocolate and helps balance the sweetness of the fudge.