Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Vampire Fudge is a crowd-pleaser that balances the deep, rich flavor of semi-sweet chocolate with the sweet creaminess of condensed milk. The red gel food coloring gives it a spooky, dramatic flair, mimicking the look of vampire bites. It’s a perfect Halloween dessert that’s both fun to make and eat. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, giving you more time to enjoy the festivities!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Fudge:
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Red Drizzle:
- Red gel food coloring
- 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
Directions
1. Prepare the Pan:
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang so you can easily lift the fudge out later. Set aside.
2. Make the Fudge:
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter, stirring occasionally until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can seize up.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for extra flavor.
3. Chill the Fudge:
- Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is firm and set.
4. Make the Red Drizzle:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir the mixture until the sugar dissolves and it begins to thicken slightly.
- Remove from heat and stir in red gel food coloring to achieve the desired blood-red color. Let the syrup cool slightly before using to avoid melting the fudge when drizzling.
5. Decorate the Fudge:
- Once the fudge has chilled and set, remove it from the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares.
- Drizzle the red syrup over the top of each square to create the spooky vampire bite effect.
6. Serve:
- Arrange the squares on a platter and serve immediately, or store in the fridge until ready to enjoy.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 36 squares
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 5 minutes
- Chill time: 2 hours
- Total time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Variations
- Add a crunch: For a textural twist, you can fold in crushed graham crackers or chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) into the fudge before chilling.
- Flavored drizzle: Experiment with different drizzle flavors by adding a little orange zest or a dash of cinnamon to the syrup for a seasonal twist.
- Vegan version: Swap the sweetened condensed milk for a vegan alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips to make this fudge vegan-friendly.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep the fudge in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. You can also freeze it for up to 1 month.
- Reheating: If you’d like to serve the fudge at room temperature, remove it from the fridge about 15-20 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
FAQs
1. Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate chips for semi-sweet chocolate if you prefer a sweeter flavor, but it will change the depth of the fudge slightly.
2. How can I prevent the red drizzle from melting the fudge?
Let the red syrup cool slightly before drizzling it on the fudge. This will help prevent it from melting into the fudge and maintain the distinct red color.
3. Can I make this fudge ahead of time?
Yes, this fudge is perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare it a day or two before your event, and it will still taste great when served cold or at room temperature.
4. How do I know when the fudge is set and ready to cut?
The fudge is ready to cut when it’s firm to the touch and no longer sticky. It should be easy to lift out of the pan with the parchment paper and cut into squares.
5. Can I use a different color for the drizzle?
Absolutely! You can use green, orange, or purple food coloring for a different spooky look. Just be sure to choose a gel food coloring for the brightest color.
6. Can I make this recipe without the red drizzle?
Yes, the fudge will still taste delicious without the red drizzle. However, the drizzle adds a fun and thematic touch that makes it perfect for Halloween.
7. Can I use a different type of syrup for the drizzle?
You can experiment with different syrups like maple syrup or agave syrup, though the flavor and consistency may vary. Stick to a thicker syrup for the best effect.
8. Can I freeze the fudge?
Yes, you can freeze the fudge. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in a freezer-safe container, and it will last up to 1 month.
9. Can I use this fudge as a gift?
Yes, you can package the fudge in a decorative box or jar as a Halloween gift. It’s a perfect homemade treat for friends or family.
Conclusion
This Spooky & Decadent Vampire Fudge is the perfect treat for any Halloween celebration. With its rich chocolate base, creamy texture, and dramatic red drizzle, it’s a show-stopping dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re hosting a spooky party or simply indulging in a sweet seasonal treat, this vampire fudge will make your Halloween even sweeter!
Spooky & Decadent Vampire Fudge Recipe for Halloween Parties
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 36 squares
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Vampire Fudge is a spooky and decadent Halloween treat combining rich dark chocolate with a dramatic red drizzle, making it the perfect addition to any Halloween party.
Ingredients
3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Red gel food coloring
2 tablespoons light corn syrup
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Set aside.
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter, stirring occasionally until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, smooth the top, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.
- For the red drizzle: In a small saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves and thickens. Remove from heat and add red gel food coloring to desired color. Let cool slightly.
- Once the fudge has set, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into squares. Drizzle the red syrup over each square.
- Serve immediately or store in the fridge until ready to enjoy.
Notes
For added crunch, mix in crushed graham crackers or chopped nuts into the fudge.
For a twist, add orange zest or cinnamon to the syrup.
To make it vegan, swap condensed milk for a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop, Refrigeration
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
