If you have a sweet tooth and love combining classic treats into one incredible dessert, you’re going to adore this M&M Cookie Dough Fudge Recipe. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser that wraps the nostalgia of cookie dough and the creamy richness of fudge into a single bite-sized piece bursting with colorful M&M goodness. Whether it’s for a party, a cozy night in, or just because you deserve it, this fudge instantly brings smiles and keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the list intimidate you; these ingredients are straightforward, but each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and eye-catching appeal of this fudge.
- Unsalted butter: Softened to create that smooth, creamy cookie dough base that melts in your mouth.
- Brown sugar: Adds a deep caramel sweetness and moisture to the cookie dough layer.
- Granulated sugar: Balances the sweetness and helps with the chewy texture in the dough.
- Milk: Keeps the dough tender and easy to spread.
- Vanilla extract (two teaspoons total): Enhances the rich flavor of both the cookie dough and fudge layers.
- All-purpose flour (heat-treated): Essential for safety, this gives structure to the cookie dough without baking.
- A pinch of salt: Perfect for bringing out all the sweet flavors and balancing richness.
- Mini M&Ms (divided): Adds that signature crunch and pops of color throughout and on top of your fudge.
- White chocolate chips: The heart of the fudge layer, providing creamy, sweet indulgence.
- Sweetened condensed milk (1 can): Combines with the chocolate for that velvety, melt-in-your-mouth fudge texture.
How to Make M&M Cookie Dough Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Whip Up the Cookie Dough
Start by beating the softened unsalted butter with both brown and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy; this is the foundation of your cookie dough layer. Then add the milk and vanilla extract, blending until smooth. Slowly incorporate the heat-treated flour and salt, mixing it just until the dough holds together. Finally, fold in half of the mini M&Ms to surprise your taste buds inside the dough itself.
Step 2: Prepare the Luscious Fudge Layer
In a saucepan over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly to avoid burning, until everything melts into a glossy, smooth fudge batter. Take it off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract to really wake up those flavors.
Step 3: Assemble Your Delicious Layers
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper so you can easily lift out the fudge later. Press your cookie dough evenly into the pan, creating a perfect base. Pour the warm white chocolate fudge on top and spread it gently until the surface is smooth and even.
Step 4: Add M&M Magic and Chill
Sprinkle the remaining mini M&Ms all over the fudge while it’s still warm, pressing them lightly so they stick into the top layer. This adds the fun, chewy texture and colorful appeal that makes this recipe so irresistible. Let it cool at room temperature briefly before chilling it in the refrigerator for at least two hours to set.
Step 5: Cut and Serve
Once fully chilled and firm, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the fudge slab from the pan. Cut into squares and get ready to delight your friends, family, or anyone lucky enough to taste this treat!
How to Serve M&M Cookie Dough Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, consider topping each fudge square with a few extra mini M&Ms or a light dusting of edible glitter to make your treats shine. You could also drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the top for a bit more contrast and richness.
Side Dishes
This fudge pairs beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee or tea. If you’re serving at a party, try offering fresh fruit or simple vanilla ice cream on the side to balance out the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Present your M&M Cookie Dough Fudge Recipe on a decorative platter lined with colorful doilies or wrap individual squares in festive parchment paper tied with twine for gift-giving. You can even layer the squares in a mason jar to create a stunning edible gift or party favor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your fudge fresh by storing leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure to layer parchment paper between the pieces to prevent sticking.
Freezing
This fudge freezes beautifully, which makes it perfect for preparing ahead of time. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place inside a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
No need to reheat fudge, but if you prefer it softer, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before enjoying. The cookie dough and fudge layers will be delightfully pliable yet still hold their shape.
FAQs
Can I use regular flour instead of heat-treated flour in the cookie dough?
While you can use regular flour, heat-treating it is recommended to kill any potential bacteria since the cookie dough is not baked. Simply spread the flour on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, cooling before mixing into your dough.
What if I don’t have mini M&Ms? Can I use regular-sized ones?
Regular-sized M&Ms can be used, but mini M&Ms distribute more evenly and create a better texture in each bite. If you only have full-sized, chopping them into smaller pieces works well.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you could experiment with a gluten-free flour blend that’s safe to eat raw or heat-treat your preferred gluten-free flour to maintain safety.
Can I substitute dark or milk chocolate chips for the white chocolate?
You can, but the flavor and color will change significantly. White chocolate provides a creamy canvas that balances the cookie dough sweetness, while dark or milk chocolate will yield a richer, slightly bitter fudge.
How long does it take for the fudge to set properly?
After cooling at room temperature for about 30 minutes, chilling the fudge in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours ensures it’s firm enough to cut cleanly. Overnight chilling is even better for perfect slices.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dessert that’s bursting with fun colors, rich layers, and a familiar, comforting flavor combo, you absolutely must try this M&M Cookie Dough Fudge Recipe. It’s easy to make yet feels insanely indulgent, perfect for sharing or savoring solo. Once you take that first bite, I guarantee it’ll become one of your favorite sweet treats to bake again and again.
Print
M&M Cookie Dough Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in this decadent M&M Cookie Dough Fudge recipe, combining creamy white chocolate fudge with chunks of homemade cookie dough loaded with mini M&Ms. This no-bake treat is perfect for parties and celebrations, offering layers of rich, buttery cookie dough topped with smooth fudge and colorful candy pieces for a delightful texture and burst of flavor.
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
Topping
- 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 the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring a creamy base for your cookie dough layer.
- Add Liquids: Mix in the milk and vanilla extract until the dough becomes smooth and well combined.
- Add Flour and Salt: Gradually stir in the heat-treated all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt, mixing until the dough comes together without any dry spots.
- Fold in M&Ms: Gently fold in 1/2 cup of mini M&Ms, distributing the candies evenly throughout the dough. Set this cookie dough aside for assembly.
- Prepare the Fudge Layer: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly to prevent burning as the chocolate melts smoothly.
- Cook until Smooth: Continue to cook and stir the mixture until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor of the fudge.
- Line the Pan: Prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal of the fudge once set.
- Form Cookie Dough Layer: Press the prepared cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the lined pan to create a firm, uniform base layer.
- Add Fudge Layer: Pour the warm white chocolate fudge mixture over the cookie dough layer, spreading it evenly to cover the surface completely.
- Top with M&Ms: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mini M&Ms evenly over the warm fudge. Gently press them into the surface for a festive and colorful topping.
- Chill: Let the assembled fudge cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours, or until firm and set.
- Serve: Once firm, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment overhang, cut into 16 squares, and serve to enjoy this rich, layered treat.
Notes
- Heat-treat the flour before using to ensure safety when eating raw cookie dough.
- Use full-fat butter and sweetened condensed milk for the creamiest texture.
- Store leftover fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Allow fudge to come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving for easier cutting and better flavor.
- You can substitute mini M&Ms with other small candies like Reese’s Pieces or colorful sprinkles if desired.
