Vampire Fudge is a fun and festive treat that’s perfect for Halloween or anytime you want a little spooky sweetness. It’s rich, creamy fudge with just the right touch of chocolate and a hint of red that makes it look like a creepy, blood-inspired dessert. The texture is smooth and melts in your mouth, making it hard to stop at just one piece.
I love making Vampire Fudge because it’s simple to whip up but always gets a big reaction from friends and family. Adding a swirl of red food coloring or a little cherry flavor gives it that fun vampire vibe, and I always find myself smiling when people ask what’s inside. It’s a perfect recipe to make with kids or for a party, since it’s both easy and playful.
My favorite way to serve this fudge is right from the fridge on a cute Halloween plate with some spooky decorations nearby. It’s a real conversation starter and always brings a little extra fun to the table. Plus, it keeps well, so you can make it ahead of time and enjoy it over a few days—if it lasts that long!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dark chocolate chips: These give the fudge a rich, deep flavor. You can swap for bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate if you prefer a milder taste.
Sweetened condensed milk: It sweetens and softens the fudge texture. For a dairy-free option, try canned coconut milk with a bit of maple syrup, though the texture may change.
White chocolate chips: These create the creamy, smooth top layer and help the red swirl stand out. Use good quality white chocolate for better flavor, or substitute with a white chocolate bar chopped into small pieces.
Red gel food coloring: Gel works best since it won’t water down the white chocolate. You can use natural food colorings like beet juice, but color may not be as vibrant.
How Do I Get the Perfect Swirl for the Red & White Chocolate Layers?
The swirl effect is the fun part! Here’s how to make it look great:
- After pouring the white chocolate layer over the set dark fudge, dollop the red-colored white chocolate in small spoonfuls all over.
- Use a toothpick or skewer to gently drag through the dollops in a swirling motion—avoid over-mixing to keep the marbled look.
- Try making various patterns like zigzags or spirals for a creative twist.
- Work quickly before the white chocolate firms up, but be gentle so the layers don’t mix completely.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 8×8 inch square baking pan – perfect size for cutting fudge into small squares.
- Parchment paper – makes it easy to lift fudge out of the pan without sticking.
- Microwave-safe bowls – you’ll melt chocolate smoothly and safely in these.
- Spatula or spoon – helps spread layers evenly and mix gently.
- Toothpick or skewer – for swirling the red food coloring into the white chocolate for that cool marbled effect.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap the dark chocolate base with milk chocolate for a sweeter, creamier fudge.
- Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the white chocolate layer for a minty twist—great around Christmas.
- Mix in chopped nuts like almonds or pecans to the dark chocolate layer for crunch and texture.
- Use cherry or raspberry flavoring with the red food coloring for a fruity vampire vibe.
How to Make Vampire Fudge?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups dark chocolate chips
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk, divided
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Red gel food coloring
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for smoother fudge)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and melt the chocolates, plus at least 2 hours of chilling time in the refrigerator to let the fudge set fully. It’s mostly hands-off after assembling!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pan and Dark Chocolate Base:
Line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips with 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each until the mixture is smooth. For extra creaminess, stir in the butter now. Pour this dark chocolate mixture into your prepared pan and spread evenly. Place the pan in the fridge for 20-30 minutes to let it set.
2. Make the White Chocolate Layer:
While the dark layer chills, melt the white chocolate chips with the remaining 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring until fully smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract. Split this white chocolate mixture roughly into two halves. Add a few drops of red gel food coloring to one half and stir gently to create a bright red color.
3. Assemble the Marbled Top Layer:
Pour the plain white chocolate layer evenly over the chilled dark chocolate base. Then, spoon dollops of the red-colored white chocolate on top. Use a toothpick or skewer to swirl the red gently into the white layer. Try not to over-mix, so the marbled blood-like effect stays vibrant and fun. Return the pan to the fridge and chill for at least 2 hours or until completely set.
4. Slice and Store Your Vampire Fudge:
Once the fudge is firm, carefully lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into small squares for serving. Keep your Vampire Fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
Can I Use Regular Food Coloring Instead of Gel?
You can, but gel food coloring is best because it’s more concentrated and won’t thin out the white chocolate mixture. If using liquid food coloring, add it sparingly to avoid thinning the fudge texture.
Can I Make Vampire Fudge Without a Microwave?
Yes! Use a double boiler to melt the chocolate and sweetened condensed milk gently on the stovetop. Stir frequently until smooth, then proceed with the recipe as usual.
How Should I Store Vampire Fudge?
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Can I Prepare Vampire Fudge Ahead of Time?
Definitely! Make the fudge a day or two ahead and keep it chilled until ready to serve. The flavors often improve after resting.
