If you’ve ever wanted to experience a luscious dessert that perfectly combines the decadent richness of cream cheese with the classic charm of red velvet, then this Cream Cheese Red Velvet Fudge Recipe is exactly what your sweet tooth has been begging for. Creamy, vibrant, and irresistibly smooth, this fudge boasts layers of silky white chocolate and a vibrant red velvet base that’s both visually stunning and deliciously satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, it’s a beautiful way to impress friends and family while indulging in a treat that melts in your mouth with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cream Cheese Red Velvet Fudge Recipe calls for a handful of straightforward and essential ingredients, each playing a pivotal role in creating that perfect balance of flavor, color, and texture. These quality staples come together to deliver that signature creamy smoothness alongside a hint of cocoa-rich depth and that unmistakable red velvet hue.
- White chocolate chips (3 cups): Provides the base for the fudge, giving it smooth, sweet richness that melts delightfully on the tongue.
- Sweetened condensed milk (1 cup): Adds creamy sweetness and helps bind the fudge together with a luscious texture.
- Red gel food coloring (1/2 teaspoon): Contributes the vibrant red color that’s iconic to red velvet desserts without altering taste.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon + 1 teaspoon): Infuses warmth and depth, enhancing the overall flavor of both fudge layers.
- Cocoa powder (2 teaspoons): Brings subtle chocolate notes and balances sweetness perfectly.
- Cream cheese, softened (8 oz): The secret ingredient for that velvety texture and tangy richness in the cream cheese layer.
- Powdered sugar, sifted (1/2 cup): Sweetens the cream cheese layer and helps achieve the right consistency.
- White chocolate chips, melted (1/2 cup): Used in the cream cheese layer to enrich and smooth out every bite.
How to Make Cream Cheese Red Velvet Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring there’s an overhang on the sides. This simple step will make removing your fudge from the pan a breeze once it’s set, without any mess or sticking.
Step 2: Make the Red Velvet Layer
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each to create a smooth, velvety mixture. Once melted and combined, stir in the red gel food coloring, vanilla extract, and cocoa powder until fully incorporated. Pour this vibrant red velvet mixture evenly into the prepared pan; this layer forms the rich base of your fudge.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, a teaspoon of vanilla extract, and the melted white chocolate chips. Whip until the mixture is silky smooth and creamy, which ensures a perfect contrast to the red velvet base.
Step 4: Layer and Swirl
Spread the cream cheese mixture gently over the red velvet layer, smoothing it out evenly. If you want to elevate the look, use a knife or toothpick to create gentle swirls through the layers, adding a beautiful marbled effect that is as stunning visually as it is delicious to taste.
Step 5: Chill and Slice
Place the pan in the refrigerator and let the fudge chill until fully set, ideally for a few hours or overnight. Once set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan, then slice it into bite-sized squares and get ready to savor each creamy, red-velvety piece.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Red Velvet Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of elegance, consider pairing your fudge with a light dusting of powdered sugar, crushed red velvet cake crumbs, or even a sprinkle of white chocolate shavings. These simple garnishes not only make the fudge look irresistible but also add delightful texture contrasts.
Side Dishes
This fudge pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of cold milk. For parties, serve it alongside fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream to brighten the palate and complement the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try packaging squares of this Cream Cheese Red Velvet Fudge Recipe in decorative cellophane bags tied with a festive ribbon for delightful homemade gifts. Or arrange the fudge in a pretty box layered with parchment paper as an impressive dessert platter centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Keeping the fudge sealed ensures it remains fresh, soft, and smooth without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to keep the fudge longer, wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Frozen fudge can last up to three months and will thaw quickly when brought to room temperature.
Reheating
Because fudge is best enjoyed cool or at room temperature, reheating is generally unnecessary. However, if you prefer it slightly softer, let it sit at room temperature for a bit or warm gently in short bursts in the microwave, just until slightly softened – be careful not to melt it.
FAQs
Can I use regular food coloring instead of gel?
You can substitute regular food coloring, but gel food coloring is highly recommended because it provides vibrant color without thinning the fudge mixture. Regular liquid colorings might alter the fudge’s texture slightly.
Is this fudge gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses no wheat-based ingredients. Just ensure any optional garnishes or sides are also gluten-free if you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions.
Can I make this fudge without a microwave?
Absolutely! Use a double boiler on the stovetop to gently melt the white chocolate chips and condensed milk. Stir continuously until smooth, then proceed with the recipe as directed.
How do I get the fudge perfectly smooth?
Using softened cream cheese and fully melting the white chocolate before mixing helps achieve a silky texture. Stirring well at each step also ensures the ingredients are completely incorporated.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Definitely! Small chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts add crunch and contrast nicely with the creaminess. Just fold them into the red velvet layer before pouring into the pan.
Final Thoughts
This Cream Cheese Red Velvet Fudge Recipe has quickly become one of my absolute favorite indulgences to make and share. The balance of rich cream cheese, luscious white chocolate, and that iconic red velvet flavor comes together in a way that feels both classic and delightfully new. There’s something so satisfying about slicing into these vibrant squares and watching the creamy layers melt on your tongue. Trust me, once you try it, this fudge will earn a permanent place in your dessert rotation—go ahead and make a batch today, you’re going to love it!
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Cream Cheese Red Velvet Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Description
This Cream Cheese Red Velvet Fudge recipe combines the rich, decadent flavors of red velvet and smooth cream cheese into an irresistible homemade treat. Perfectly sweet and creamy, this no-bake fudge features a vibrant red velvet layer made with white chocolate, cocoa, and red food coloring, topped with a luscious cream cheese layer swirled for a beautiful marbled effect. Ideal for parties, gifting, or any special occasion, this fudge is simple to prepare and guaranteed to delight.
Ingredients
Red Velvet Layer
- 3 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 teaspoon red gel food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons cocoa powder
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips, melted
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This will make it much easier to lift the fudge out of the pan once it has set.
- Make the Red Velvet Layer: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the 3 cups of white chocolate chips and 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each, until the mixture is completely smooth and melted. Stir in the 1/2 teaspoon red gel food coloring, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 2 teaspoons cocoa powder until the color and flavor are fully incorporated.
- Pour Red Velvet Mixture: Pour the red velvet chocolate mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly using a spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a medium bowl, beat the softened 8 oz cream cheese until smooth. Add 1/2 cup sifted powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and the melted 1/2 cup white chocolate chips. Mix thoroughly until fully combined and creamy.
- Layer and Swirl: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the red velvet layer in the baking dish. Optionally, use a knife or toothpick to swirl the two layers gently for a marbled red velvet effect.
- Chill: Place the baking dish in the refrigerator and let the fudge set for at least 4 hours, or until firm enough to cut.
- Slice and Serve: Using the parchment overhang, lift the fudge out of the pan. Cut into squares and serve. Store any leftovers refrigerated.
Notes
- Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Use gel food coloring to avoid thinning the fudge mixture.
- For an extra festive touch, sprinkle chopped nuts or white chocolate shavings on top before chilling.
- Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- To make the fudge last longer, it can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (melting and mixing)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
