Vampire Fudge is a fun and festive treat that’s perfect for Halloween or any spooky-themed occasion. It’s rich, chocolatey fudge with little surprises like red candy bits or marshmallows that look like tiny vampire teeth. This fudge has a creamy texture with just a touch of sweetness that isn’t too overpowering, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.
I love making Vampire Fudge because it’s really simple to whip up, and it always gets everyone talking. What I enjoy most is mixing in whatever fun Halloween candies I have on hand—it’s like adding a little personality to every batch. If you want to make it extra special, try using a pinch of cinnamon or a bit of vanilla extract to give it a warm twist that reminds me of cozy fall nights.
My favorite way to serve this fudge is chilled on a little Halloween plate with some decorative napkins. It’s perfect for sharing with friends during a movie night or handing out as a homemade treat. Plus, it keeps well in the fridge if you want to prepare it ahead of time, which is always a bonus when the spooky season gets busy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips: These form the rich chocolate base. If you prefer, dark chocolate chips work too for a more intense flavor. For a sweeter fudge, try milk chocolate chips.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: It adds creaminess and sweetness without extra sugar. If unavailable, evaporated milk with added sugar can work but might change texture slightly.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives smoothness and rich flavor. You can substitute with margarine in a pinch, but butter gives the best taste.
Red Food Coloring Gel: Gel works best for vibrant color without changing fudge consistency. Liquid food coloring can thin the fudge, so use sparingly.
White Chocolate Chips: These add nice texture and a sharp contrast in the red swirls. You can skip them or swap with mini marshmallows for a chewy twist.
Optional Decorations: Red sanding sugar or edible glitter make the fudge more festive. You can also use crushed freeze-dried raspberries for a natural color and slight tartness.
How Can I Get Perfectly Swirled Red and Chocolate Fudge?
Swirling the red and dark fudge creates the striking vampire blood look, but it needs a gentle touch.
- Pour the dark fudge evenly in your pan for a smooth base.
- Add dollops of red fudge randomly on top—no need to be perfect!
- Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the edges of the red dollops into the dark base.
- Don’t overmix—stop swirling when you see distinct marbled patterns to keep the look dramatic.
Doing this while the fudge is still soft and slightly warm makes swirling easier. If it’s too cooled, the colors won’t blend smoothly. With a little patience, you’ll have those cool blood-like swirls that make this fudge stand out!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium heavy-bottomed saucepan – heats the fudge gently and prevents burning.
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula – great for stirring the chocolate mixture smoothly.
- 8×8-inch square baking pan – perfect size for setting the fudge evenly.
- Parchment paper – helps lift the fudge out easily after it sets.
- Toothpick or skewer – essential for creating the swirled red and chocolate design.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap semi-sweet chocolate with dark chocolate for a richer, less sweet fudge.
- Add crushed peppermint candies to the dark fudge for a cool, minty twist.
- Mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
- Stir in mini marshmallows instead of white chocolate chips for a chewy texture contrast.
Vampire Fudge Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Red food coloring gel (as needed for vivid red color)
- ¼ cup white chocolate chips
- Optional: Red sanding sugar or edible glitter for decoration
- Optional: Red syrup (e.g., raspberry or strawberry syrup) for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 3 hours of chilling time to set the fudge firmly. Most of the time is hands-off while the fudge cools, making it simple and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pan:
Line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving extra hanging over the edges so the fudge is easy to lift out later.
2. Make the Chocolate Base:
In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until everything is melted and smooth. Remove from the heat and stir in vanilla extract.
3. Color and Separate the Fudge:
Divide the chocolate fudge mixture between two bowls — about two-thirds in one (for the dark base) and one-third in the other (for the red portion). Add red food coloring gel to the smaller bowl a little at a time until you get a bright, rich red color. Stir in white chocolate chips for a bit of texture and contrast if you like.
4. Assemble and Swirl:
Pour the dark chocolate fudge evenly into your prepared pan. Dollop spoonfuls of the red fudge over the dark layer. Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the red fudge into the dark fudge, creating a marbled, “blood-like” pattern. Don’t over-swirl—stop when you have pretty red and dark swirls.
5. Chill and Finish:
Sprinkle red sanding sugar or edible glitter on top if desired, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours until the fudge is firm. When ready, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper edges and cut it into squares. For an extra vampire vibe, drizzle red syrup around the serving plate.
Enjoy your spooky Vampire Fudge, perfect for Halloween parties, gift-giving, or just a deliciously eerie treat!
Can I Use Different Types of Chocolate?
Yes! Semi-sweet chocolate chips are ideal, but you can use dark or milk chocolate instead. Dark chocolate will give a richer, less sweet fudge, while milk chocolate makes it sweeter and creamier.
How Should I Store Vampire Fudge?
Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just thaw in the fridge before serving.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Make the fudge a day or two before your event and let it chill fully in the fridge. It keeps well and the flavors actually improve as it sits.
What If I Don’t Have Red Food Coloring Gel?
You can use liquid food coloring, but use it sparingly since it may thin out the fudge slightly. Gel food coloring is best for vibrant color without affecting texture.
