Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite treat—creamsicle fudge! This sweet, creamy delight takes me right back to those hot summer days when I’d enjoy an orange creamsicle popsicle, feeling all the nostalgia wash over me. The combination of zesty orange and smooth vanilla just dances on your taste buds! I remember making this fudge for the first time with my mom, and we’d sneak a piece every time we passed the fridge. It’s such a simple recipe, but the flavor is out of this world. You can’t help but smile with each bite! Trust me, once you whip up this fudge, you’ll be hooked, and it’ll become your new go-to dessert for any occasion. Let’s get started on this tasty adventure together!
Ingredients for Creamsicle Fudge
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon orange extract
- 1/2 cup orange zest (freshly zested for the best flavor)
- Food coloring (optional, for a fun pop of color)
How to Prepare Creamsicle Fudge
Alright, let’s get this deliciousness going! Making creamsicle fudge is super simple, and I promise you’ll love every step of the process. Just follow along, and before you know it, you’ll have a dreamy treat ready to chill in the fridge!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. This makes it so much easier to lift the fudge out later—trust me, you’ll thank me for this!
- In a medium saucepan, combine your white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter. Turn the heat to low, and stir gently until everything melts together into a smooth, creamy mixture. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
- Once it’s all melted and velvety, take it off the heat. Now, stir in the vanilla extract and the orange extract. Wow, the aroma will have you dreaming of summer!
- Next, fold in that gorgeous orange zest. This is where the flavor really shines, so make sure it’s evenly mixed in.
- If you’re feeling extra fun, add a few drops of food coloring to give your fudge a vibrant orange hue. Mix until it’s beautifully combined!
- Pour the luscious mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Don’t be shy—scoop every last bit in there!
- Now, here’s the hard part: refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until your fudge is fully set. I know, waiting can be tough, but it’ll be oh-so-worth it!
- Once it’s firm, lift the fudge out of the dish using the parchment paper, and cut it into squares. Serve it up and watch everyone fall in love!
Tips for Success
Now that we’re diving into making this creamsicle fudge, here are my top tips to ensure your fudge turns out absolutely perfect every time!
- Use Quality Ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better your fudge will taste! I always go for high-quality white chocolate chips for that rich, creamy flavor.
- Measure Accurately: Especially with the sweetened condensed milk and butter, make sure to measure them precisely. Too much liquid can make your fudge too soft.
- Stir Gently: When melting your chocolate mixture, stir gently to keep the texture smooth and prevent any burning. Patience is key here—low and slow works best!
- Don’t Rush the Refrigeration: I know it’s hard to wait, but letting the fudge chill for at least 2 hours is crucial for it to set properly. Trust me, the waiting will pay off!
- Customize to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the orange extract to your liking. If you’re a citrus lover, a little extra will really amp up that orange flavor!
- Keep It Airtight: Store your fudge in an airtight container to keep it fresh. You don’t want it to dry out or absorb any weird fridge odors!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create the most scrumptious creamsicle fudge that’ll impress everyone around you. Happy cooking!
Variations on Creamsicle Fudge
If you’re feeling adventurous (and trust me, you should be!), there are so many fun ways to switch up your creamsicle fudge. Here are some delightful variations that I absolutely love, and I think you’ll enjoy them too!
- Chocolate Orange Fudge: Add in some chocolate chips along with the white chocolate for a rich, chocolatey twist. The combination of chocolate and orange is simply divine!
- Berry Burst Fudge: Swap out some of the orange zest for finely chopped strawberries or raspberries. The fruity tang adds a refreshing pop that pairs beautifully with the creamy fudge.
- Coconut Cream Fudge: Stir in some shredded coconut along with the orange zest for a tropical vibe. It’ll make your fudge taste like a vacation in every bite!
- Nutty Fudge: Mix in some chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts to give your fudge a lovely crunch and added flavor. Just sprinkle them in before pouring the mixture into the baking dish.
- Spiced Fudge: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture for a warm, cozy flavor. It’s perfect for fall and gives a whole new depth to the classic creamsicle taste!
- Layered Fudge: Make two different flavors—like half orange and half chocolate—and layer them in the baking dish. Just pour one flavor in, let it set a bit, then add the second layer for a stunning visual treat!
Feel free to get creative and mix and match these ideas! The beauty of fudge is that it’s super forgiving, so go ahead and make it your own. I can’t wait to hear what variations you come up with!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve made this scrumptious creamsicle fudge, you’ll definitely want to keep it fresh for as long as possible. Here’s how to store it properly and what to do with any leftovers!
First, make sure to let your fudge cool completely after it’s set in the fridge. Once it’s chilled, I recommend cutting it into squares—this makes it easier to grab a piece whenever that sweet craving hits!
Now, to store it, simply place your fudge squares in an airtight container. You can layer them with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking, which is a little trick I always use. This way, they stay fresh and delicious for up to a week in the fridge!
If you’re thinking about longer storage, you can also freeze the fudge. Just wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months! When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight. No reheating needed—just let them soften a bit to enjoy that creamy texture.
So, whether you’re making this fudge for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, you can easily enjoy it over time with these simple storage tips. Happy indulging!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk about the numbers behind this delicious creamsicle fudge! Each piece is a delightful treat, and while it’s definitely indulgent, it’s nice to know what you’re enjoying. Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values for one piece of this creamy goodness:
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 20mg
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 1g
Remember, these values can vary a bit based on the specific brands of ingredients you use, but it gives you a good idea of what to expect. Enjoy every bite of your creamsicle fudge—it’s all about balance, right? Happy munching!
FAQ about Creamsicle Fudge
Can I use dark chocolate instead of white chocolate?
Absolutely! If you’re a fan of dark chocolate, feel free to swap it in. Just keep in mind that it’ll change the flavor profile a bit, but it’s still going to be delicious!
What if I can’t find orange extract?
No worries! You can simply use more orange zest to boost that citrus flavor. If you have orange juice on hand, you could even use a splash of that, but it might make the fudge a bit softer.
How do I know when my fudge is set?
Your fudge is set when it feels firm to the touch and holds its shape well. If it’s still a bit soft in the center after the chilling time, just let it sit in the fridge a little longer. Patience is key!
Can I make this fudge vegan?
Yes! Look for vegan white chocolate chips and use coconut milk instead of sweetened condensed milk. You can also substitute the butter with coconut oil for a creamy, plant-based version!
How long will this fudge last?
In an airtight container, your creamsicle fudge will stay fresh for about a week in the fridge. If you freeze it, it can last up to two months. Just be sure to wrap it well so it doesn’t get freezer burn!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This creamsicle fudge comes together in just about 15 minutes of hands-on time, making it perfect for a last-minute treat!
- Creamy Texture: With the combination of white chocolate and sweetened condensed milk, you’ll get a melt-in-your-mouth creaminess that’s simply irresistible.
- Delightful Flavor: The vibrant mix of orange and vanilla captures that nostalgic creamsicle taste, making every bite a burst of sunshine!
- Versatile Treat: You can easily customize the flavors or add fun mix-ins, so it’s adaptable for any occasion or craving!
- Perfect for Sharing: This recipe makes 24 pieces, so it’s just right for parties, gatherings, or just sharing with family and friends (if you’re feeling generous!).
- Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy this sweet treat whenever the mood strikes!
Creamsicle Fudge: 7 Reasons You’ll Crave This Delight
- Temps Total: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Rendement: 24 pieces 1x
- Alimentation: Végétarien
Description
A sweet and creamy dessert that combines the flavors of orange and vanilla in a fudge.
Ingrédients
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon orange extract
- 1/2 cup orange zest
- Food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a saucepan, combine white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter.
- Heat over low, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and orange extracts.
- Add orange zest and mix well.
- If desired, add food coloring and mix until combined.
- Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- Store fudge in an airtight container.
- For a stronger orange flavor, increase the orange extract.
- Can be made ahead of time and stored for up to a week.
- Temps De Préparation: 15 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 10 minutes
- Catégorie: Dessert
- Méthode: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 piece
- Calories: 120
- Sucre: 15g
- De Sodium: 20mg
- La graisse: 7g
- Graisses Saturées: 4g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 2g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 14g
- La fibre: 0g
- La protéine: 1g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 10mg
Mots-clés: creamsicle fudge, orange fudge, dessert, sweets
