Sugar-Free Chocolate Fudge
Indulge in the rich, creamy texture and intense chocolate flavor of fudge without the sugar rush! This Sugar-Free Chocolate Fudge recipe is a dream come true for anyone watching their sugar intake. It’s surprisingly easy to make and requires only a few simple ingredients. This sugar-free fudge is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the guilt and is a great treat for holidays, gifts, or any occasion.
I’ve always loved the melt-in-your-mouth texture of fudge, but traditional recipes are often loaded with sugar. I wanted to create a healthier version that still delivered on flavor and texture, and this recipe does just that. This healthy fudge is so easy to make, you’ll want to make it all the time.
How to Make It
We start by melting sugar-free chocolate chips (or unsweetened chocolate with a sugar substitute). This can be done in a double boiler or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to prevent burning.
Next, we combine the melted chocolate with heavy cream and butter. This creates a rich and creamy base for the fudge.
We then add a sugar substitute, such as erythritol or allulose, to sweeten the fudge. You can adjust the amount of sweetener to your preference.
A touch of vanilla extract is added to enhance the flavor.
The mixture is stirred until smooth and then poured into a prepared dish.
Finally, the fudge is chilled in the refrigerator until firm.
Make Ahead Method
This sugar-free fudge is perfect for making ahead. It needs to chill for several hours to firm up, so making it the day before you plan to serve it is ideal. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Pro Tips
- Use good quality sugar-free chocolate: The quality of the chocolate will greatly affect the flavor of the fudge.
- Melt the chocolate slowly and carefully: Avoid overheating or burning the chocolate.
- Use a candy thermometer (optional): A candy thermometer can help you ensure that the mixture reaches the correct temperature for a smooth and creamy fudge.
- Add mix-ins: You can add chopped nuts, sugar-free candies, or other mix-ins to the fudge for extra flavor and texture.
- Line the dish with parchment paper: This makes it easy to remove the fudge from the dish once it’s chilled.
Storage
Storing Leftover Fudge:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the fudge. Cut it into squares and wrap each square individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Tools For This Recipe
- Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 8×8 inch baking dish
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Candy thermometer (optional)
FAQs!
- Can I use a different type of sweetener? Yes, you can use other sugar-free sweeteners like monk fruit or stevia. Adjust the amount according to the sweetener’s sweetness level.
- Can I use unsweetened chocolate instead of sugar-free chocolate chips? Yes, you can, but you will need to add more sweetener to the recipe.
- Why is my fudge grainy? Grainy fudge can be caused by overheating the chocolate or not stirring the mixture properly. Using a candy thermometer can help prevent this.
Sugar-Free Chocolate Fudge
Ingredients
- 12 ounces sugar-free chocolate chips or 6 ounces unsweetened chocolate + 1/2 cup sugar-free sweetener
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup sugar-free sweetener erythritol or allulose, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts sugar-free candies, or other mix-ins
Instructions
Prepare the Dish:
- Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. This prevents the fudge from sticking to the dish.
Melt the Chocolate:
- In a double boiler or a microwave-safe bowl, melt the sugar-free chocolate chips (or unsweetened chocolate). If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat or burn the chocolate.
Combine Ingredients:
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the melted chocolate, heavy cream, and butter. Stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Add Sweetener and Vanilla:
- Add the sugar-free sweetener (erythritol or allulose) and vanilla extract to the chocolate mixture. Stir until the sweetener is fully dissolved and everything is well combined. If using, fold in any chopped nuts, sugar-free candies, or other desired mix-ins.
Pour and Chill: Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Chill the fudge in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours, or until it is completely firm.
Cut and Serve:
- Once the fudge is firm, remove it from the dish using the parchment paper overhang. Cut it into squares and serve.