Christmas Coal Fudge is a rich and creamy holiday treat made with chocolate chips, marshmallow fluff, and black food coloring for a fun, festive twist.
Can we talk about how certain holiday traditions never get old? Growing up, my mom always joked about Santa leaving “coal” in our stockings if we misbehaved. As a kid, I was terrified. Now? It’s hilarious—and a perfect way to poke fun at the mischievous ones in your life.
A few years ago, I decided to turn that joke into reality—well, sort of. Instead of handing out lumps of real coal (not very edible, right?), I whipped up this Christmas Coal Fudge. The look on my nephew’s face when I handed him his “coal” was priceless. But the best part? Watching his eyes light up when he took a bite. “Wait, this isn’t coal… it’s chocolate!”
Since then, Christmas Coal Fudge has become a holiday staple in my house. It’s funny, delicious, and just the right amount of playful. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter at parties. If you’re looking for a treat that’s as entertaining as it is tasty, this is it.
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Coal Fudge Recipe?
- Fun and Playful: Who doesn’t love a good holiday prank that ends with chocolate?
- Rich and Creamy: Thanks to marshmallow fluff and semi-sweet chocolate, the texture is melt-in-your-mouth good.
- Quick and Easy: You’ll spend more time laughing about it than actually making it.
- Great for Gifting: Wrap it up in cute bags or tins, and you’ve got the perfect holiday gift.
Ingredient Notes:
Let’s break this down so you know exactly what makes this fudge so good.
- Granulated Sugar: The foundation of every great fudge. Sweet, simple, and reliable.
- Marshmallow Fluff: The secret to that creamy, dreamy texture we all love.
- Evaporated Milk: Adds richness without making the fudge too heavy.
- Butter: Because, honestly, can you name a dessert that isn’t better with butter?
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Balances the sweetness perfectly. Plus, they melt beautifully.
- Vanilla Extract: Just a dash for a cozy, warm flavor.
- Black Gel Food Coloring: This is the star ingredient that transforms fudge into coal.
How To Make Christmas Coal Fudge?
Making Christmas Coal Fudge is easier than wrapping presents (and way less frustrating). Here’s how to do it:
- Prep Your Pan:
Start by lining a 9×13 or 11×15-inch pan with parchment paper. Leave some overhang so you can lift the fudge out easily later. Grease the parchment lightly with butter or non-stick spray. - Combine Ingredients in the Pot:
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, stir together the sugar, marshmallow fluff, evaporated milk, butter, and salt. Heat the mixture over medium-low, stirring constantly to avoid burning. - Bring It to a Boil:
Once everything has melted together, increase the heat to medium. Keep stirring as the mixture starts to bubble. Let it boil until it reaches 234–240°F. If you don’t have a candy thermometer, don’t worry—I’ll give you a trick in the FAQ section. - Add Chocolate and Color:
Take the pot off the heat and stir in the chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and black food coloring. Mix until the chocolate is completely melted and the color is even. Add more food coloring if needed for that perfect coal-black look. - Pour and Set:
Pour the mixture into your prepared pan, smoothing it out with a spatula. Let it set at room temperature until firm—no need to refrigerate unless you’re in a hurry. - Cut and Serve:
Once the fudge is set, lift it out using the parchment paper and cut it into squares or irregular shapes to mimic lumps of coal.
Storage Options:
- Room Temperature: Keep it in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigerator: Store it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature before serving.
Variations and Substitutions:
Want to make it your own? Here are a few ideas:
Want To Save This Recipe?
- Add Peppermint: Swap vanilla for peppermint extract for a minty twist.
- Mix-Ins: Stir in chopped nuts or crushed candy canes for added texture.
- Different Colors: Use red or green food coloring for a festive twist on “coal.”
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan-friendly version.
What to Serve with Christmas Coal Fudge?
This fudge is fabulous on its own, but if you’re feeling fancy, pair it with:
- Hot Chocolate: Double the chocolate, double the joy.
- Cookies: Add it to a holiday cookie platter for some variety.
- Coffee or Espresso: A little bitterness from coffee balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Ice Cream: Crumble the fudge over vanilla or peppermint ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I need a candy thermometer?
Not necessarily, but it helps. If you don’t have one, drop a bit of the mixture into cold water. If it forms a soft ball, you’re good to go.
What if my fudge doesn’t set?
It might not have reached the right temperature. You can try reheating it gently and cooking it a bit longer.
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate will give the fudge a richer, less sweet flavor.
And there you have it—Christmas Coal Fudge that’s equal parts hilarious and delicious. Whether you’re pranking a friend or treating yourself, this recipe is sure to spread holiday cheer. Let me know if you give it a try—who’s getting “coal” in their stocking this year?
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Christmas Coal Fudge
Ingredients
- 5 cups granulated sugar
- 1 16-ounce container marshmallow fluff
- 1 ¼ cups evaporated milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 24 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Black gel food coloring as needed
Instructions
Prepare the Baking Pan:
- Line a 9x13-inch or 11x15-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends over the edges for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment with butter or non-stick spray. Set aside.
Combine Ingredients in a Pot:
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan or Dutch oven, add the granulated sugar, marshmallow fluff, evaporated milk, butter, and salt. Heat over medium-low, stirring continuously, until the sugar is completely dissolved, and the ingredients are well combined.
Cook the Mixture:
- Increase the heat to medium, stirring frequently, and bring the mixture to a full boil. Allow it to boil while stirring constantly until the temperature reaches 234–240°F, about 5 minutes. Use a candy thermometer for accuracy.
Incorporate the Chocolate and Flavoring:
- Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and vanilla extract until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth. Add the black gel food coloring gradually, mixing well until the desired coal-black color is achieved.
Pour and Spread:
- Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Smooth the surface for a uniform finish.
Allow to Set:
- Let the fudge cool and set at room temperature for at least 1 hour.
Cut into Pieces:
- Once the fudge is firm, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into small squares or irregular shapes to resemble lumps of coal.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
