Vegan Fudge

This delectable Vegan Fudge comes together easily and is made using only 5 ingredients! Also only about 10 minutes of active prep time is necessary. Rich, smooth, decadent and creamy, no one you make this for will be able to tell it's vegan. Let's learn how to make it!

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my full disclosure here.

Ingredients Needed for Vegan Fudge

Only 5 ingredients are needed for this recipe and you may already have them in your pantry!

Each of the listed ingredients plays a crucial role in contributing to the texture, flavor, and overall success of a vegan fudge recipe:

• Vegan Heavy Cream: Vegan heavy cream serves as the base for the fudge, providing richness and creaminess without the use of dairy. It helps to bind the ingredients together and create a smooth, velvety texture in the final product.
• Nondairy Chocolate Chips: Chocolate chips are the main flavor and structural component of fudge. Nondairy chocolate chips ensure that the recipe remains vegan-friendly while providing the rich, chocolatey taste that is characteristic of fudge. They melt down to form the smooth, indulgent chocolate base of the fudge.
• Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract enhances the flavor profile of the fudge, adding depth and complexity. Even though it's a small amount, it helps to balance out the sweetness of the other ingredients and provides a subtle aroma that complements the chocolate.
• Cocoa Powder: Cocoa powder intensifies the chocolate flavor of the fudge. It contributes richness and depth, adding a deep chocolatey hue to the fudge mixture. Cocoa powder also helps to thicken the mixture and gives the fudge a dense texture.
• Powdered Sugar: Powdered sugar is used to sweeten the fudge and give it a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth consistency. It dissolves easily into the mixture, ensuring that the fudge is not grainy but rather silky and smooth.

Each ingredient in this recipe serves a specific purpose, whether it's providing structure, enhancing flavor, sweetening, or creating the desired texture. Together, they work harmoniously to produce a delicious, vegan-friendly fudge.

How to Make Vegan Fudge (with pictures!)

1. Melt Chocolate: Pour vegan heavy cream into a small saucepan and heat on the stove over medium-low heat. Continue until the cream is simmering. Remove from heat. Place chocolate chips in a large glass bowl. Pour the hot cream evenly over the top of the chocolate. Allow to sit undisturbed for 5 minutes. Whisk until completely smooth.
2. Beat Mixture: Add vanilla extract and cocoa powder to the bowl and whisk again until the ingredients are well incorporated. Add powdered sugar to the bowl and beat with an electric hand mixer on low speed. Continue until the powdered sugar is no longer visible and you are left with a thick chocolate mixture.
3. Set Fudge: Line a 9 inch square pan with aluminum foil. Scrape the chocolate mixture into the pan using a rubber spatula. Use the spatula to spread the chocolate evenly in the pan. Cover pan with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and chill in the refrigerator for 8 hours or overnight. Cut into small pieces with a sharp knife to serve.

Tips for Success

1. Choose High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality vegan chocolate chips, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and vegan heavy cream. Using good-quality ingredients will significantly impact the flavor and texture of your fudge.
2. Use Vegan Heavy Cream Alternatives: If you can't find vegan heavy cream, you can use an alternative like full-fat coconut milk. This will provide the richness and creaminess needed for fudge.
3. Don’t Substitute/Reduce Ingredients: It will throw off the recipe, especially if you reduce the sugar. The fudge won’t set properly.
4. Sift Cocoa Powder and Powdered Sugar: Sifting cocoa powder and powdered sugar helps to remove any lumps, ensuring a smooth and creamy fudge texture.
5. Line the Pan with Parchment Paper or Foil: Line your pan with parchment paper or foil before pouring in the fudge mixture. This makes it easier to remove the fudge from the pan once it's set.
6. Allow Sufficient Chilling Time: Let the fudge chill in the refrigerator until completely solid before cutting into squares. This allows it to set properly and ensures a nice, firm texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any type of vegan chocolate for making vegan fudge?

In short, yes. That said, I've found that vegan semisweet chocolate chips tend to work best. Creamier and darker chocolate will work but semisweet produces a nice, middling flavor.

Can I substitute coconut milk for vegan heavy cream in vegan fudge?

Yes, full-fat coconut milk can be used as a substitute for vegan heavy cream. It provides richness and creaminess to the fudge.

Can I make vegan fudge without using powdered sugar?

No. Powdered sugar helps to achieve the desired texture and sweetness in vegan fudge.

Why is my vegan fudge grainy?

Grainy texture in vegan fudge can result from unmelted chocolate, improper mixing, or using low-quality ingredients. Ensure that you stir constantly and use high-quality ingredients to achieve a smooth texture.

Why is my vegan fudge not setting?

If your vegan fudge is not setting properly, there could be a few reasons why:

1. Incorrect Ratios of Ingredients: The ratios of ingredients in the fudge recipe are crucial for proper setting. If there's too much liquid or not enough binding agents (such as powdered sugar or cocoa powder), the fudge may not set properly. Double-check your measurements and adjust as needed.
2. Not Chilling Properly: Chilling the fudge is essential for it to set properly. If you try to cut or handle the fudge before it has set, it may not hold its shape.
3. Low-Quality Ingredients: Using low-quality ingredients, especially chocolate, can affect the setting process of fudge. Make sure you're using high-quality vegan chocolate chips and other ingredients to ensure proper setting.
4. Over-mixing: Over-mixing the fudge mixture can cause it to become grainy and prevent it from setting properly. Beat the mixture only as much as necessary to combine the ingredients.

Great Add-Ins for Fudge

Here are some delicious add-ins that you can incorporate into your fudge for extra flavor and texture:

1. Nuts: Chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, almonds, or peanuts are classic additions to fudge. They add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
2. Dried Fruit: Dried fruits such as cherries, cranberries, raisins, or apricots can provide a sweet and chewy contrast to the rich chocolate fudge.
3. Coconut: Toasted coconut flakes or shredded coconut can add a tropical twist to your fudge, providing both flavor and texture.
4. Cookie Pieces: Crushed cookies like Oreos, graham crackers, or chocolate wafers can add a fun and crunchy element to your fudge.
5. Candy: Chopped candy bars, candy canes, or other candies like peppermint, toffee, or peanut butter cups can be folded into the fudge for bursts of sweetness and flavor.
6. Flavored Extracts: Experiment with flavored extracts such as mint, almond, or orange to add a hint of extra flavor to your fudge.
7. Spices: Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or chili powder can add depth and warmth to your fudge, creating a unique and flavorful treat.
8. Sea Salt: A sprinkle of sea salt on top of your fudge can enhance the chocolate flavor and provide a delicious contrast to the sweetness.

Feel free to mix and match these add-ins to create your own unique fudge creations. Whether you prefer a classic combination like nuts and dried fruit or something more adventurous like coconut and chili powder, adding extras to your fudge can take it to the next level of deliciousness!

How to Store Vegan Fudge

Storing vegan fudge properly is crucial to maintaining its freshness and texture. Here are some tips on how to store vegan fudge:

1. Refrigeration: Vegan fudge should be stored in the refrigerator. Place the fudge in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap/aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Let it sit out for a few minutes before serving for the best taste and texture.
2. Freezing: Vegan fudge can also be frozen for longer-term storage. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Frozen fudge will last for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, thaw the fudge in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
3. Layering: If stacking multiple layers of fudge in a container, place parchment paper or wax paper between each layer to prevent them from sticking together.
4. Avoid Moisture: Keep the fudge away from moisture, as it can cause the texture to become soggy or sticky. Store it in a dry environment away from sources of humidity.
5. Avoid Strong Odors: Keep the fudge away from strong-smelling foods or ingredients to prevent it from absorbing unwanted flavors.

By following these storage tips, you can keep your vegan fudge fresh and delicious for as long as possible, ensuring that it maintains its irresistible taste and texture.

If you make this recipe be sure to tag @censoredbaker on Instagram!

Print

More Vegan Candy Recipes

• Vegan Peanut Butter Cups
• Vegan Peppermint Patties
• Vegan Almond Joys
• Vegan Hershey Kisses
• Vegan Cookie Dough Bites
• Vegan Freezer Fudge