Imagine a treat that combines the nostalgia of classic cookie dough with the creamy richness of fudge and the playful crunch of colorful candies. That’s exactly what you get with this delightful M&M Cookie Dough Fudge Recipe. It’s a rich, luscious dessert that layers soft, buttery cookie dough with smooth white chocolate fudge, speckled throughout and topped with vibrant mini M&Ms. Perfect for celebrations, gifting, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this recipe brings a fun twist to traditional fudge that everyone will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of simple pantry staples and treats that each play a crucial role in delivering the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From creamy butter to sweetened condensed milk, every ingredient blends harmoniously to create that irresistible M&M Cookie Dough Fudge Recipe.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Adds rich creaminess and helps create that tender cookie dough texture.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Brings a deep caramel flavor and moistness to the dough.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Balances sweetness and helps with the dough’s structure.
- Milk (2 tbsp): Moistens the cookie dough for the perfect consistency.
- Vanilla extract (2 tsp, divided): Infuses both layers with warm, aromatic sweetness.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup, heat-treated): Provides structure and safety for edible cookie dough without baking.
- A pinch of salt: Enhances all the sweet flavors and adds depth.
- Mini M&Ms (1/2 cup + 1/2 cup for topping): Adds bursts of fun color and a slight crunch.
- White chocolate chips (2 cups): Melts into a creamy, luscious fudge layer.
- Sweetened condensed milk (1 can, 14 oz): Sweetens and thickens the fudge perfectly.
How to Make M&M Cookie Dough Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough
Start by creaming the softened butter with both brown and granulated sugars until your mixture is light, fluffy, and wonderfully fragrant. This step ensures your cookie dough base will be tender yet sturdy enough to hold up under the rich fudge layer.
Step 2: Add Liquids and Flavor
Mix in the milk and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and combined. These ingredients add moisture and that classic vanilla warmth that makes cookie dough so comforting.
Step 3: Incorporate Flour and Salt
Slowly blend in the heat-treated flour along with a pinch of salt, stirring until the dough just comes together. Heat treating the flour is key to making safe-to-eat cookie dough without worrying about any raw flour risks.
Step 4: Fold in Mini M&Ms
Gently fold in the first half of your mini M&Ms so they’re evenly scattered throughout the dough. This adds delightful pops of color and a slight crunch that you’ll love in every bite.
Step 5: Prepare the Fudge Layer
In a saucepan over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir continuously until the chocolate fully melts and the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.
Step 6: Add Vanilla and Remove from Heat
Remove the fudge mixture from the stove and stir in the remaining vanilla extract. This final flavor boost deepens the fudge’s richness.
Step 7: Assemble the Fudge
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal. Press the cookie dough evenly into the bottom to form a solid first layer that will hold the fudge beautifully.
Step 8: Add the Fudge Layer and Toppings
Pour the warm white chocolate fudge over your cookie dough layer and smooth it out evenly. Immediately sprinkle the remaining mini M&Ms on top, gently pressing them into the fudge so they stick as it cools.
Step 9: Chill and Cut
Allow your creation to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then pop it into the fridge for at least 2 hours until it firms up completely. Once set, lift out the fudge using the parchment paper edges and cut into 16 squares for sharing or savoring solo.
How to Serve M&M Cookie Dough Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra mini M&Ms or even a light dusting of edible glitter on top for an extra festive touch. You can also drizzle melted white or milk chocolate over each square for a decorative swirl that wins hearts instantly.
Side Dishes
This fudge pairs wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea to balance its sweetness. For a fun party spread, serve it alongside simple sugar cookies or fruit slices like strawberries to refresh the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the fudge into fun shapes with cookie cutters for themed parties or gifting. Layer small squares in a clear jar or festive tin with parchment paper separators—making a charming handmade gift that looks as amazing as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your M&M Cookie Dough Fudge Recipe stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The cool temperature helps maintain the fudge’s creamy texture and the cookie dough’s soft chewiness.
Freezing
You can freeze individual squares wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to enjoy the fudgy goodness without losing any texture or flavor.
Reheating
This fudge is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is generally not recommended as it can affect the texture. If you prefer slightly softer fudge, let it sit out for 10 to 15 minutes before eating.
FAQs
Can I use regular flour instead of heat-treated flour for the cookie dough?
Regular flour raw from the package can pose food safety risks, so it’s important to heat-treat the flour by baking it at 350°F for 5 minutes and cooling before use. This makes it safe to eat in raw dough recipes like this one.
Do I have to use white chocolate chips, or can I use other types?
White chocolate chips provide a creamy, sweet base that complements the cookie dough well. You can experiment with milk or semi-sweet chocolate chips, but it will change the flavor and texture slightly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As written, this recipe is not gluten-free due to the all-purpose flour. However, you can try substituting a gluten-free flour blend that is safe for raw consumption to accommodate dietary needs.
Can I substitute the mini M&Ms with other candies?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap mini M&Ms for other small candies like chocolate chips, Reese’s Pieces, or chopped nuts to customize your fudge’s color and crunch.
How long does this fudge stay fresh?
Stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container, the fudge stays fresh and delicious for up to one week. Beyond that, it may start to lose texture and flavor quality.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to wow your friends and family with a dessert that’s both nostalgic and indulgent, this M&M Cookie Dough Fudge Recipe is a must-try. It’s easy to make, endlessly satisfying, and brings a playful pop of color and sweetness to any occasion. I can’t wait for you to give it a go and see why this has quickly become one of my very favorite treats to share!
Print
M&M Cookie Dough Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This M&M Cookie Dough Fudge recipe combines the nostalgic flavors of cookie dough with rich, creamy white chocolate fudge, studded with colorful mini M&Ms for a fun and indulgent treat. Perfect for parties or gifting, this no-bake layered dessert features a buttery cookie dough base topped with smooth white chocolate fudge and sprinkled with M&Ms for added texture and color.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (heat-treated for safety)
- A pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup mini M&Ms
Fudge Layer
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup mini M&Ms (for topping)
Instructions
- Make the Cookie Dough: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This creates a creamy base for the cookie dough layer.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in the milk and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined, enhancing the flavor and texture.
- Add Flour and Salt: Gradually mix in the heat-treated flour and a pinch of salt, stirring carefully until the dough forms a cohesive, soft mixture safe to eat raw.
- Fold in M&Ms: Gently fold the mini M&Ms into the cookie dough to distribute them evenly throughout the dough. Set this mixture aside.
- Prepare the Fudge Layer: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly to melt the chocolate smoothly without burning.
- Cook Until Smooth: Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture is completely melted and has a glossy, smooth texture, perfect for pouring.
- Add Vanilla: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the fudge with rich flavor.
- Prepare Baking Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the edges to easily lift the fudge out later.
- Form Cookie Dough Layer: Press the prepared cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the lined baking pan, creating a uniform layer as the base of the fudge.
- Pour Fudge Over Dough: Pour the warm white chocolate fudge evenly over the cookie dough layer, spreading gently to cover the entire surface.
- Add Topping M&Ms: Sprinkle the remaining mini M&Ms on top of the fudge layer while it’s still warm, pressing them lightly to ensure they stick to the surface.
- Chill the Fudge: Let the fudge cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes to set slightly, then transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours until firm.
- Cut and Serve: Once the fudge is fully set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift it from the pan. Cut into 16 squares and serve.
Notes
- Ensure the flour is heat-treated to make the cookie dough safe for no-bake consumption.
- Use parchment paper with overhang to easily remove the fudge from the pan without sticking.
- Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness for up to one week.
- For added texture and flavor, you can substitute some mini M&Ms with chopped nuts.
- This recipe is best served chilled but can be kept at room temperature for short periods before serving.
