Vampire Fudge Recipe
Vampire Fudge is a fun and tasty treat that combines rich, creamy chocolate with a little hint of garlic—a surprising twist that makes it perfect for Halloween or any spooky…
By Ava
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Reading time: 6 min
Vampire Fudge is a fun and tasty treat that combines rich, creamy chocolate with a little hint of garlic—a surprising twist that makes it perfect for Halloween or any spooky gathering. The fudge is smooth and sweet, but the garlic adds a playful bite that brings a whole new flavor adventure to your dessert table.
I love making this fudge when I want to surprise my friends with something different. The garlic flavor isn’t overwhelming; it just adds a secret little kick that keeps everyone guessing. It’s a fun way to mix things up, and it always sparks a lot of smiles and laughs when people try it for the first time.
I usually cut the fudge into small squares and serve it on a festive plate alongside regular chocolates or candies. It’s a perfect conversation starter and works great at parties where you want to share a little spooky spirit. Give it a try—you might find yourself coming back to this quirky recipe year after year!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: These give a rich, balanced chocolate flavor that isn’t too sweet or bitter. You can swap with dark chocolate chips if you want a more intense taste or milk chocolate chips for a creamier, sweeter fudge.
Sweetened condensed milk: This is what makes the fudge creamy and smooth. For a dairy-free option, try canned coconut milk, but results will differ slightly in texture.
White chocolate chips: Essential for the striking red swirl, melting smoothly for that pretty marbled look. If unavailable, use white chocolate bark or bars chopped finely.
Red and black food coloring: These colors create the “bloody” effect. Gel colors tend to be more vibrant and won’t thin your chocolate like liquid dyes might.
Freeze-dried raspberries or cherries: These add texture and hint of tartness while looking like blood splatter—perfect for the spooky vibe! Fresh or dried berries could work but won’t have the same squashy texture.
How Can I Get a Beautiful Marbled “Bloody” Effect?
The swirl is the trickiest but also the most fun part of this fudge. Here’s how I do it:
- After spreading the chocolate base evenly, spoon dollops of the red-tinted white chocolate in several spots.
- Use a toothpick or skewer to gently drag through the dollops and the base chocolate to create swirled patterns. Don’t overmix—stop when you like the marbled look.
- Try to keep the swirls loose and flowing, not tight circles, for a more natural bloody effect.
- If you want, add some black color drops for contrast—but use sparingly to avoid darkening the whole swirl.
- Finally, scatter freeze-dried berries on top before it sets for a realistic blood splatter texture.
Take your time swirling—it’s okay if it looks messy before it sets. The marbled look is all about creative randomness!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 8×8 inch baking pan – perfect size and shape for fudge squares, plus the edges help create clean cuts.
- Parchment paper – stops fudge from sticking and makes it easy to lift out the whole slab for cutting.
- Microwave-safe bowls – these let you melt chocolate and white chocolate smoothly without burning.
- Spatula – great for stirring melted chocolate and smoothing fudge layers evenly.
- Toothpick or skewer – essential for swirling the red and white chocolate into a marbled bloody effect.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a richer, slightly bitter fudge that balances the sweet swirl beautifully.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper into the chocolate base for a warm or spicy surprise kick that fits spooky occasions.
- Mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture contrast against the creamy fudge.
- Use raspberry or cherry preserves instead of syrup for a thicker, fruitier drizzle and extra berry flavor.
How to Make Vampire Fudge?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups (340g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- Red food coloring (around 5-6 drops)
- Black food coloring (optional, a few drops)
- Freeze-dried raspberries or cherries (for garnish)
- Red raspberry or cherry syrup (for drizzle)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 2 to 3 hours to let the fudge set and firm up. Most of the time you wait, so it’s a great treat to make ahead and enjoy later.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pan:
Line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift the fudge out later.
2. Make the Chocolate Base:
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until everything is melted and smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance flavors.
3. Pour the Chocolate Layer:
Pour the melted chocolate mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth it out into an even layer.
4. Prepare the Red Swirl:
In another microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips with 15-second bursts, stirring each time until smooth. Add the red food coloring and mix until you get a bright red color. If you want it darker and more dramatic, add a few drops of black food coloring.
5. Create the Marbled Effect:
Drop spoonfuls of the red-and-white chocolate mixture onto the dark chocolate base. Use a toothpick or skewer to swirl the colors together gently. Try to make flowing, irregular patterns for that perfect “bloody” look.
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
You can sprinkle some freeze-dried raspberries or cherries on top to mimic blood splatters. This adds extra flavor and spooky texture.
7. Let It Set:
Allow the fudge to rest at room temperature or place it in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 hours until it’s firm enough to cut.
8. Serve Your Vampire Fudge:
Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan, then cut it into squares. Before serving, drizzle with red raspberry or cherry syrup for an extra “bloody” effect.
Enjoy your Vampire Fudge – a rich, creamy chocolate treat with a spooky red swirl that’s sure to be a hit at your next Halloween party!
Can I Use Dark Chocolate Instead of Semi-Sweet Chocolate?
Yes! Dark chocolate works well if you prefer a richer, more intense flavor. Just keep in mind it may make the fudge slightly less sweet.
How Should I Store Vampire Fudge?
Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Let refrigerated fudge come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Can I Make Vampire Fudge Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! It actually tastes better after sitting overnight, allowing the flavors to meld. Just keep it covered tightly to prevent drying out.
What If I Don’t Have Freeze-Dried Raspberries or Cherries?
No worries! You can skip them or substitute with finely chopped fresh or dried berries, though the texture won’t be quite the same. The syrup drizzle helps add that fruity, “bloody” touch too.