If you want to contribute to the cookie tray but you’re not much of a baker, never fear! This eggnog fudge is packed with festive holiday flavor in a no bake treat that only needs a microwave to make. It’s simple, delicious, easy to make ahead, and makes a great gift too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This microwave version of eggnog fudge is fast, nearly foolproof, and totally beginner-friendly. It produces a soft, creamy fudge consistency without the need for a candy thermometer, and you don’t have to babysit a bubbling pot on the stove!
It delivers that classic holiday eggnog flavor that’s sweet, creamy, and lightly spiced in a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth fudge that sets beautifully every time. Of course, eggnog is also just a generally great winter flavor, so you can serve this for New Year’s and other occasions too!
This fudge has just a few simple ingredients, comes together in minutes (though it does need time to set), and is perfect for gifting, parties, or last-minute holiday treats. Plus, you can customize it with nutmeg, sprinkles, or mix-ins to make it your own!
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Ingredients List
- 3 cups white chocolate chips (or about 18 ounces)
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk (8 ounces; just over ½ a standard 14-ounce can)
- ¼ cup eggnog
- ⅛ tsp nutmeg (plus additional for topping if desired)
- ½ tsp rum extract (optional)
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
- You can use an equivalent amount of chopped white bar chocolate instead of white chocolate chips if preferred (but I find the chips more convenient). If you don’t like white chocolate, sub milk or dark chocolate instead (but the color and flavor of course changes as well)
- I use plain eggnog, but you can substitute a flavored one (vanilla, cinnamon, red velvet, or similar) to create different flavors
- Instead of rum extract you could also use vanilla extract, or an eggnog flavoring extract. You can also omit it, but I find it gives the fudge a more eggnog-forward flavor
- If you choose not to add the rum extract or the nutmeg, you’ll still get a light eggnog flavor from the, you know, real eggnog in this fudge (which can be nice if you’re not a super fan of eggnog and just want a “kiss” of flavor)!
Step By Step Instructions
- Line an 8×8” square pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil sprayed with nonstick spray. You can use a 9×9” too, but it will give you thinner fudge overall
- To a large microwave safe bowl, add the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and the eggnog. Microwave on high power for 1 minute, stir, then microwave in additional 30-second increments as needed until fully melted and smooth
- Stir in the rum extract and nutmeg, making sure it’s well distributed, then pour the mixture into your prepared pan, smoothing the top. Dust with additional nutmeg if desired
- Refrigerate until set, usually about 3-4 hours (note it will feel firm on the top, but this is overall a softer fudge, so expect it to hold shape but be soft inside), then cut into pieces as desired (I do 1” squares). Enjoy!
Pairing Suggestions
Drinks
- Hot Coffee or Lattes – The slight bitterness balances the rich, creamy sweetness
- Chai or Spiced Tea – Warm spices echo the nutmeg and holiday flavors in the fudge
- Dark or Spiced Rum – A small sip pairs beautifully with the eggnog notes. For a less-strong option, try my Dr Pepper Eggnog, which complements the flavors too
- Sparkling Wine – Light, bubbly, and refreshing against the dense sweetness!
Snacks
- Salted Pretzels – The crunchy saltiness cuts through the fudge’s richness. Try my Butter Toffee Pretzels for a sweet and salty combo!
- Kettle-Cooked Chips – A savory, crisp contrast that keeps each bite interesting
- Roasted Nuts – Almonds, pecans, or pistachios add warmth and balance
Other Desserts
- Gingerbread Cookies – The spices pair naturally with eggnog flavor
- Shortbread – Buttery and simple, letting the fudge shine
- Cranberry Bars – Tartness offsets the creamy sweetness perfectly!
Recipe FAQs
Can I Make This Recipe on the Stovetop Instead?
Yes. Melt the base over low heat, stirring constantly, then mix in the remaining ingredients, then pour and set as usual. Just keep the heat gentle to prevent scorching.
How Do I Know When the Fudge Has Set?
It’s ready when it feels firm to the touch and lifts cleanly from the pan. This usually takes a few hours in the fridge, or overnight for the cleanest slices.
The insides will be soft due to the added liquid in this recipe, but your fudge should hold its shape when cut. If it’s more of a taffy consistency or spreads after cutting, then it is not set.
Can I Make This Fudge Ahead of Time?
Yes. You can prepare the fudge a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh and slice nicely when ready to serve.
Tips For the Best Eggnog Fudge
- I make and test my recipe using a 1000W microwave. It takes me 1 ½ minutes in total to get my mixture melted and smooth. Other wattages can vary slightly, so adjust as needed for your setup
- For cleaner edges when cutting the fudge, run a sharp knife under hot water first before cutting the cold fudge
- Due to the extra liquid added (in the form of eggnog) to this recipe, this fudge will be softer than a traditional microwave fudge. It should still cut into clean cubes and not spread, but expect it to feel more “squishy” overall, with a smooth, decadent bite. You can add a bit more white chocolate if you’d like it thicker, but it will dilute the flavor more
Storage and Serving
Storage Tips
- Fudge keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 weeks; allow fudge to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture
- You can also freeze in portions for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge overnight
Serving & Presentation Tips
- Cut into small squares or festive shapes using cookie cutters for a fun holiday display (snowflakes are a nice choice for eggnog flavor I think)!
- Dust with a light sprinkle of nutmeg, cinnamon, or cocoa powder to enhance the holiday vibe!
- Serve on a decorative platter lined with parchment or holiday-themed paper for visual appeal
- Eggnog Martini
- Eggnog Scones
Final Thoughts
This easy eggnog fudge recipe is creamy, decadent, delicious, and just like your favorite holiday drink in sweet treat form! It’s perfect when you want something different to compliment the cookies on your Christmas platter, or if you want something that requires no baking at all.
Using the microwave and sweetened condensed milk creates a shortcut method to making homemade candy that requires no stove, no boiling, and no thermometer. Since I add eggnog, you’ll get a softer fudge here, but one that’s smooth, creamy, and packed with festive flavor.
If you’re looking for a perfect treat to try this year that’s not just more cookies, give this eggnog fudge a try, or mix and match with some of my other delicious Christmas Fudge Recipes!
Eggnog Fudge (Easy Microwave Recipe)
Equipment
- Square pan (8×8" or 9×9")
- Spatula (or spoon; for stirring)
Ingredients
- 3 cups white chocolate chips
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
- ¼ cup eggnog
- ⅛ tsp nutmeg (plus additional for topping if desired)
- ½ tsp rum extract (optional)
Instructions
- Line an 8×8” square pan with parchment paper or foil sprayed with nonstick spray. You can use a 9×9” too, but it will give you thinner fudge overall
- To a large microwave safe bowl, add the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and the eggnog. Microwave on high power for 1 minute, stir, then microwave in additional 30-second increments as needed until fully melted and smooth3 cups white chocolate chips, ½ cup sweetened condensed milk, ¼ cup eggnog
- Stir in the rum extract and nutmeg, making sure it’s well distributed, then pour the mixture into your prepared pan, smoothing the top. Dust with additional nutmeg if desired⅛ tsp nutmeg, ½ tsp rum extract
- Refrigerate until set, usually about 3-4 hours (note it will feel firm on the top, but this is an overall softer fudge; expect it to hold shape but be soft inside), then cut into pieces as desired (I do 1” squares). Enjoy!
Notes
- You can use an equivalent amount of chopped white bar chocolate instead of white chocolate chips if preferred (I just find the chips more convenient). If you don’t like white chocolate, sub milk or dark chocolate instead (but the overall color and flavor of course changes as well). Feel free to add some extra chocolate if you want to firm the fudge a bit more (it just dilutes the eggnog flavor a little too)
- I use plain eggnog, but you can substitute a flavored one (vanilla, cinnamon, red velvet, or similar) to create different flavors
- Instead of rum extract you could also use vanilla extract, or an eggnog flavoring extract. You can also omit it, but I find it gives the fudge a more eggnog-forward flavor
- If you choose not to add the rum extract or the nutmeg, you’ll still get a light eggnog flavor from the actual eggnog in this fudge (which can be nice if you’re not a super fan of eggnog and just want a hint of flavor)!
- Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand and flavor of ingredients, any sauces or sides added, and quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only
Nutrition
