Christmas Coal Candy, also known as Black Fudge, is a playful and delicious treat perfect for holiday fun. Whether you’re gifting it to someone who’s been “naughty” or just adding a unique item to your dessert table, this rich and creamy fudge combines the sweetness of white chocolate with a striking black hue for a whimsical twist.
Why You Will Love Christmas Coal Candy
- Simple Ingredients: You only need pantry staples to create this show-stopping fudge.
- Perfect for Gifting: A fun and festive treat for friends, family, or as party favors.
- Customizable: Add sprinkles or sanding sugar for an extra decorative touch.
- Creamy and Sweet: Smooth, melt-in-your-mouth fudge with just the right amount of richness.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: A great recipe for involving kids in holiday preparations.
Ingredients Notes Christmas Coal Candy
- White Chocolate Chips (3 cups): High-quality white chocolate chips will ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk (14 oz): Adds sweetness and creates the fudge’s velvety consistency.
- Unsalted Butter (2 tbsp): Enhances richness and helps the fudge set properly.
- Fine Sea Salt (½ tsp): Balances the sweetness and elevates the flavor.
- Vanilla Extract (2 tsp): Adds a warm, aromatic note to the fudge.
- Gel Black Food Coloring (2 tsp): Creates the coal-like color. Adjust the quantity depending on your desired shade.
- Black or Silver Sprinkles: Optional for a festive, decorative touch.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Heavy-bottomed saucepan
- Whisk or heat-resistant spatula
- 8×8-inch square baking dish
- Parchment paper
- Sharp knife for cutting
How to Make Christmas Coal Candy
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
- Line an 8×8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Step 2: Melt the Ingredients
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, butter, sea salt, and vanilla extract.
- Heat over low heat, stirring constantly. Be patient, as the mixture will melt slowly. Do not increase the heat, as this may scald the mixture.
Step 3: Add Food Coloring
- Once the mixture is smooth and fully melted (approximately 5–7 minutes), remove it from the heat.
- Whisk in the black gel food coloring until the desired shade is achieved.
Step 4: Pour and Set
- Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle with black or silver embellishments if desired.
Step 5: Chill and Cut
- Allow the fudge to cool completely at room temperature before covering and chilling in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours.
- Once chilled, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into 1-inch squares.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Arrange the fudge pieces on a festive platter or package them in decorative bags for gifting.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: Freeze the fudge for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Variations
- Festive Touch: Add edible glitter or metallic gold sprinkles for a luxe look.
- Minty Coal: Add ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract instead of vanilla for a mint-chocolate variation.
- Layered Fudge: Create a two-toned fudge by reserving half of the white mixture and layering it on top of the black fudge.
Helpful Notes
- Gel food coloring works best for achieving a vibrant black hue without thinning the fudge mixture.
- Stir constantly and slowly to prevent the chocolate from burning or seizing.
- Let the fudge cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, sharp edges.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Sally McKenney (Sally’s Baking Addiction): “Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan for even heat distribution and to avoid scorching your mixture.”
- Ree Drummond (The Pioneer Woman): “Line your pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal of the fudge.”
- Martha Stewart: “Patience is key when melting chocolate—low and slow is the way to go.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use liquid food coloring instead of gel?
Gel food coloring is recommended as it provides intense color without affecting the texture. If using liquid, start with a few drops and adjust as needed.
What if my fudge doesn’t set?
Ensure the mixture was fully melted and combined before pouring. If it’s too soft, refrigerate it for additional time to firm up.
Can I use dark chocolate instead of white chocolate?
Yes, but the final color may not appear as strikingly black.
What’s the best way to cut the fudge?
Use a sharp knife, warming it under hot water and drying it between cuts for clean edges.
Why is my fudge grainy?
Graininess can occur if the mixture is overheated or stirred too quickly. Use low heat and stir gently.
Christmas Coal Candy (Black Fudge) is a deliciously playful treat that’s perfect for spreading holiday cheer. Have fun making and sharing this unique and festive dessert!
