There’s something utterly magical about the Red Velvet Fudge with Cream Cheese and White Chocolate Layer Recipe that makes it impossible to resist. Imagine the rich, velvety red fudge layer melting in your mouth, perfectly balanced by a luscious cream cheese topping swirled with white chocolate. Every bite feels like a festive celebration wrapped in smooth sweetness, with just the right hint of cocoa and that irresistible pop of color. It’s the ultimate treat to share with loved ones or to savor anytime you need a bit of indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this delightful Red Velvet Fudge with Cream Cheese and White Chocolate Layer Recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are simple yet crucial for delivering that perfect texture, vibrant color, and luscious flavor. Each one plays a specific role, from the creamy white chocolate to the rich cocoa powder, creating a harmonious blend you won’t soon forget.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Adds a rich, smooth base and helps with melting the marshmallows evenly.
- 3 cups mini marshmallows: Provide sweetness and help create a soft, chewy texture in the fudge.
- 1 cup sugar: Balances the flavors and ensures the fudge is delectably sweet.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Gives the fudge a smooth, creamy consistency that’s essential for richness.
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder: Adds depth and that classic red velvet chocolate hint without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the other flavors with its warm, aromatic notes.
- 1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips: Melts into a silky layer and adds luxurious sweetness for both the fudge and the topping.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the chocolate’s flavor.
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon tasteless red gel food coloring: Creates the signature vibrant red color that makes this recipe so eye-catching.
- 2 ounces cream cheese: Brings tangy creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the sweet fudge.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds smoothness to the cream cheese layer.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture to perfection.
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract: Complements the cream cheese layer with warmth and subtle flavor.
- 1/3 cup white chocolate chips: Melted into the cream cheese layer for that irresistible white chocolate touch.
- Pinch of salt: Lifts all the flavors in the topping layer.
- Red sprinkles: Optional but perfect for adding a festive, crunchy finish.
How to Make Red Velvet Fudge with Cream Cheese and White Chocolate Layer Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8 inch square pan with parchment paper. This step is key because it makes removing the fudge a breeze later on. Butter the top of the parchment or give it a spritz with butter-flavored cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Melt the Fudge Base
In a medium saucepan, combine 4 tablespoons of butter, mini marshmallows, sugar, cocoa powder, and heavy cream. Cook over medium-low heat while stirring frequently. The goal here is to achieve a smooth, melted mixture where all these ingredients blend into a rich and glossy fudge base.
Step 3: Add Flavor and Color
Once smooth, reduce the heat to low. Stir in vanilla extract and 1 1/2 cups of white chocolate chips, mixing until the chocolate melts fully. Remove from heat and slowly blend in the tasteless red gel food coloring. Add more gradually until you achieve that gorgeous red velvet hue that’s so iconic.
Step 4: Chill the Red Velvet Layer
Pour your red velvet chocolate mixture into the prepared pan. Spread it evenly and pop it into the refrigerator for at least one hour. This chilling step allows the fudge to set perfectly before the cream cheese layer goes on top.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese and White Chocolate Layer
In a medium bowl, whip the cream cheese and 1 tablespoon of butter together with an electric mixer until creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated. In a separate microwave-safe bowl, melt 1/3 cup white chocolate chips in 30-second increments, stirring well between each until completely smooth.
Step 6: Combine and Chill the Topping
Fold the melted white chocolate into your cream cheese mixture with low mixing. Once blended, pour this luscious white layer over the chilled red velvet fudge base and smooth it out evenly. Refrigerate until this top layer is fully set and chilled.
Step 7: Slice and Decorate
Carefully lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper edges. Set on a flat surface and slice into 16 even squares. Sprinkle the tops with red sprinkles if you want an extra festive touch before serving.
How to Serve Red Velvet Fudge with Cream Cheese and White Chocolate Layer Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation, consider topping each fudge square with a few red sprinkles or even tiny white chocolate curls. These subtle touches not only enhance visual appeal but also add a delightful texture contrast with every bite.
Side Dishes
This fudge is decadently rich, so pairing it with a light side like fresh berries or a dollop of lightly whipped cream brings a refreshing balance. A cup of strong coffee or robust black tea is the perfect companion to cut through the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, stack the fudge squares on a pretty cake stand or arrange them in a decorative box lined with parchment paper for gifting. Wrapping each piece individually in wax paper tied with a ribbon can make for a charming homemade treat for friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any extra Red Velvet Fudge with Cream Cheese and White Chocolate Layer Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will maintain its perfect texture and flavor for up to a week, so you can savor it slowly or share whenever the craving strikes.
Freezing
If you want to make this fudge far ahead of time, freeze portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving to preserve the creamy layers and rich fudge texture.
Reheating
This fudge is best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer it at room temperature, simply let it sit out for 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid microwaving since heat can alter its texture and melt the beautiful cream cheese layer.
FAQs
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?
Yes, regular marshmallows can work. Just chop them into smaller pieces so they melt evenly and smoothly without clumping in your fudge mixture.
What type of cream cheese is best?
Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the creamiest and richest topping. Reduced-fat versions may affect the texture and flavor balance of your cream cheese layer.
Is there a substitute for the red gel food coloring?
While red gel coloring gives the best intense hue without affecting texture, you can try natural food colorings like beet juice powder, but results may vary in brightness and flavor.
Why is the heavy cream important in this recipe?
Heavy cream adds richness and helps to create that perfectly smooth fudge texture. It prevents the fudge from becoming grainy or too dense, keeping each bite exquisitely creamy.
How can I tell when the fudge is fully set?
The fudge is set when it feels firm to the touch and a knife inserted comes out mostly clean. The cream cheese layer should also be completely chilled before cutting to avoid smudging.
Final Thoughts
This Red Velvet Fudge with Cream Cheese and White Chocolate Layer Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser with its stunning appearance and decadent flavors. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy night in, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfy that sweet tooth. I encourage you to give it a try—you’ll soon find it becoming a favorite in your dessert rotation!
Print
Red Velvet Fudge with Cream Cheese and White Chocolate Layer Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Red Velvet Fudge recipe combines rich cocoa-flavored chocolate with creamy white chocolate and a smooth cream cheese topping for a decadent treat. It features a velvety red cocoa fudge base infused with marshmallows and white chocolate, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting and finished with red sprinkles for a festive touch. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion, this no-bake fudge is easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 3 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon tasteless red gel food coloring
Cream Cheese Topping
- 2 ounces cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup white chocolate chips
- Pinch of salt
- Red sprinkles, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8 inch square pan with parchment paper, then butter the top of the parchment paper or spray it lightly with butter-flavored cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Heat Ingredients for Fudge Base: In a medium saucepan, combine 4 tablespoons of butter, mini marshmallows, sugar, cocoa powder, and heavy cream. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until the butter melts and the mixture becomes smooth.
- Add Flavors and Melt Chocolate: Lower the heat to low, stir in vanilla extract and white chocolate chips. Continue mixing until the chips are fully melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Add Red Coloring: Remove the pan from heat, then stir in the tasteless red gel food coloring. Add more coloring if needed to achieve a vibrant red hue.
- Chill the Fudge Base: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan. Refrigerate for at least one hour until it is firm.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: Using an electric mixer, beat together the cream cheese and 1 tablespoon butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Melt White Chocolate: In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the 1/3 cup white chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each until completely smooth.
- Combine White Chocolate and Cream Cheese: Pour the melted white chocolate into the cream cheese mixture and mix on low speed until thoroughly blended.
- Top the Fudge: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the chilled red fudge base and spread evenly to cover the surface.
- Chill the Finished Fudge: Place the pan back into the refrigerator and chill until the cream cheese layer sets completely, about 1 hour.
- Slice and Serve: Lift the fudge out of the pan with the parchment edges, place on a flat surface, sprinkle with red sprinkles, then slice into 16 even squares for serving.
Notes
- Use tasteless red gel food coloring to achieve a bright red color without affecting the flavor.
- Ensure the white chocolate chips are fully melted and smoothly incorporated to prevent lumps in the fudge and topping.
- Allow each layer to chill completely before adding the next to maintain clear layers and easier slicing.
- Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- For easier slicing, use a sharp knife warmed in hot water and wiped dry between cuts.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
