Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Fudge Recipe

I am absolutely in love with this Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Fudge Recipe because it combines two of my favorite things—classic cookie dough and rich, creamy fudge—into one irresistibly sweet treat. Every bite feels like a nostalgic trip back to those carefree days sneaking spoonfuls of cookie dough straight from the bowl, but with the smooth indulgence of fudge that just melts in your mouth. The balance of buttery cookie dough chunks studded with mini chocolate chips folded into smooth fudge is pure bliss. I can’t wait to share not only how to make it but also all the little tips that make this recipe super simple and incredibly delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Fudge Recipe

What makes this Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Fudge Recipe stand out for me is the amazing flavor contrast it delivers. The buttery, slightly salty cookie dough combined with the velvety-sweet fudge creates a taste experience that’s rich but so satisfying you find it hard to stop at just one piece. I love how the mini chocolate chips add a little pop of chocolatey goodness in every bite, giving it a perfect texture combo that’s chewy, creamy, and a little bit crisp all at once.

On top of that, I really appreciate how straightforward this recipe is. Despite feeling decadent and fancy, it actually requires simple ingredients and minimal fuss. I can whip it up in about 20 minutes and then just let it chill while I get on with other things. It’s ideal for parties, holiday gatherings, or simply when I want a special treat after a long day. Honestly, whenever I bring this to a get-together, it’s always the first thing to disappear—which tells me I’m not alone in thinking it’s pretty special!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses a handful of simple, essential ingredients that each play a key role in creating the perfect texture, sweetness, and flavor. Every element comes together to recreate that classic cookie dough vibe while delivering the creamy fudge experience we all crave.

• Butter: Provides the rich, creamy base for both the cookie dough and fudge components, essential for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens and lightens the cookie dough, helping it achieve that classic cookie dough flavor.
• Brown sugar: Adds a deeper, caramel-like sweetness to both the fudge and cookie dough for complexity.
• Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and enhances the overall sweetness and flavor in both the cookie dough and fudge.
• Salt: Balances all the sweetness and intensifies the buttery notes.
• Half and half: Adds just the right richness without being too heavy, creating that fudgy creaminess.
• All-purpose flour: Gives the cookie dough its texture and structure; remember to heat-treat if you want to avoid raw flour concerns.
• Powdered sugar: The magic ingredient in fudge that makes it smooth, sweet, and sliceable.
• Mini chocolate chips: These little gems add delightful bursts of melty chocolate in every bite.

Directions

Step 1: Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with foil and leaving about a 1-inch overhang on all sides to make removing the fudge easier later. Don’t forget to spray the foil with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: To prepare the cookie dough, beat the room temperature butter with both the granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy—this usually takes about 3 minutes using an electric mixer. I find this step really important because it ensures a smooth, airy texture in the dough.

Step 3: Add in the vanilla, salt, and half and half, beating until everything is fully combined.

Step 4: Slowly stir in the all-purpose flour until just incorporated. Don’t overmix here; you want the dough just combined and supple.

Step 5: In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter, a pinch of salt, and half and half. Heat over medium-low, stirring frequently until the butter is melted and the sugar has fully dissolved. This step ensures your fudge base will be perfectly smooth.

Step 6: Remove the saucepan from heat and gradually beat in the powdered sugar, about 1 cup at a time. This slow incorporation helps prevent lumps and gives the fudge that silky consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract once all the powdered sugar is mixed in.

Step 7: Fold the prepared cookie dough into the fudge base with a spatula until evenly combined, then gently mix in the mini chocolate chips. This is when you start to see the magic happening.

Step 8: Spread the fudge mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish using your spatula or the back of a spoon.

Step 9: Pop the fudge in the fridge to chill for at least 3 hours or until firm. Once set, you can lift it out using the foil overhang and cut it into 64 bite-sized 1-inch pieces.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes approximately 64 small 1-inch pieces, perfect for sharing with a crowd or portioning as small treats. The prep time is just about 20 minutes, making it a quick assembly process. Although the active cooking time is minimal, be sure to factor in the 3-hour chilling time to allow the fudge to fully set and develop its texture. The total time from start to finish comes to approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes, mostly hands-off as you wait for the fudge to firm up.

How to Serve This Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Fudge Recipe

When I serve this Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Fudge Recipe, I love cutting the fudge into bite-sized squares—smaller portions work best because the fudge is rich and intensely sweet. I often arrange them beautifully on a decorative platter so guests can easily grab a piece as part of a dessert spread. Garnishing with a few extra mini chocolate chips or a light dusting of powdered sugar can really elevate the presentation for special occasions.

This fudge pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like raspberries or sliced strawberries that cut through the sweetness while adding a touch of freshness. If I’m serving it at a party, I might include a small bowl of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream to scoop alongside. For beverages, I find a glass of cold milk is classic and perfectly refreshing, but if you want to get fancy, a sweet dessert wine like Moscato or a creamy coffee cocktail works beautifully to enhance the fudgy flavors.

I recommend serving the fudge chilled or at room temperature so it holds its shape but still feels soft and luscious on the palate. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or whenever you want to impress friends with a show-stopping, homemade treat that tastes like a luxurious indulgence without needing hours in the kitchen.

Variations

I love experimenting with this Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Fudge Recipe to suit different tastes and dietary needs. For instance, you can swap the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends to make it safe for gluten-intolerant friends without losing the signature texture. Just be sure to heat-treat your flour if raw consumption is a concern, as I always do.

For a vegan twist, replace the butter with plant-based margarine and use coconut cream or a nut milk in place of half and half. Powdered sugar is already vegan, so no swaps needed there! You can also mix in different types of chocolate chips like white chocolate or peanut butter chips for unique flavor profiles that keep things exciting.

If you want to change things up, try folding in chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or even a swirl of peanut butter for a decadent contrast. Cooking methods can also be adapted slightly by using a double boiler for melting the fudge ingredients to avoid scorching or using a silicone mold to create fun fudge shapes instead of the traditional slab.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

Leftover fudge can be stored easily in an airtight container in the refrigerator. I usually layer parchment paper or wax paper in between layers of fudge pieces to prevent sticking. Stored this way, it keeps fresh for up to one week. The cool temperature maintains its firm but creamy texture beautifully.

Freezing

This fudge freezes well if you want to keep it longer. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe ziplock bag or airtight container. Properly frozen, the fudge will maintain its texture and flavor for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, just thaw the pieces in the fridge overnight for the best results.

Reheating

I don’t recommend reheating this fudge as it’s best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. Reheating could cause the fudge to melt and lose its lovely texture. If you want to soften chilled fudge before serving, just let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. This way, it stays deliciously soft without becoming gooey or sticky.

FAQs

Can I use raw flour in the cookie dough part?

It’s best to heat-treat the flour before using it in the cookie dough to avoid any risk of foodborne illness. You can spread the flour on a baking sheet and bake it at 300°F for about 10 minutes or until it reaches 160°F. Let it cool before mixing it in. This step doesn’t change the flavor but adds peace of mind.

Can I make this fudge without chocolate chips?

Absolutely! While the chocolate chips add a lovely texture and bursts of chocolate, the fudge base and cookie dough are delicious on their own. You can also substitute with other mix-ins like chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even swirls of peanut butter if you prefer.

How long does this fudge keep at room temperature?

This fudge is best stored in the refrigerator, but it can safely sit at room temperature for a few hours during serving. Because it contains dairy, leaving it out too long may cause it to soften excessively or spoil, so refrigeration is recommended for longer storage.

Can I adjust the sweetness level?

Yes! The recipe’s powdered sugar amount can be adjusted between 4 and 5 cups depending on your sweetness preference. Less powdered sugar results in a softer, less sweet fudge that should be kept cold, while more powdered sugar makes a firmer, sweeter fudge that holds up better at room temperature.

What is the best way to cut the fudge without it crumbling?

I recommend chilling the fudge thoroughly in the fridge for at least 3 hours before cutting. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts to get smooth, clean edges. Cutting small 1-inch squares is ideal for enjoying this rich fudge without overwhelm.

Conclusion

I truly hope you give this Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Fudge Recipe a try because it has quickly become one of my all-time favorite homemade treats. It’s a deliciously rich, nostalgic dessert that’s easier to make than you might think and sure to impress anyone lucky enough to taste it. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something sweet and special, this fudge always hits the spot and brightens my day. Enjoy every bite!

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