Easy Marshmallow Swirl Fudge

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Silky smooth, delightfully sweet, and visually stunning — Easy Marshmallow Swirl Fudge is the ultimate treat for dessert lovers. This mouthwatering creation combines the rich decadence of chocolate fudge with fluffy ribbons of marshmallow cream, creating an eye-catching marble pattern that’s as irresistible as its taste. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday party, gifting a homemade goodie, or just satisfying a sweet tooth, this fudge delivers a perfect blend of texture and flavor in every bite.

Unlike complicated confections, this recipe is designed for simplicity without sacrificing indulgence. No candy thermometer required, no special techniques — just a handful of ingredients, a bit of stirring, and a swirl of creativity. In just under an hour, you’ll have a batch of glossy, swirled fudge that melts in your mouth and wows on the dessert table.

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Why You’ll Love This Easy Marshmallow Swirl Fudge

• Visually Stunning: The elegant chocolate-marshmallow swirls make it a showstopper.
• Quick to Make: Minimal prep, no baking, and only a few ingredients.
• No-Fail Method: Easy enough for beginners, impressive enough for gifting.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or a cozy night in.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults both adore it — sweet, creamy, and satisfying.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment (And Why You Need Them):

• Medium Saucepan: This is where you’ll melt and mix your fudge base. It should have even heat distribution to prevent scorching.
• Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring thick mixtures like fudge and perfect for scraping every last bit of chocolate out of the pan.
• 8×8-Inch Baking Pan: This size gives you the ideal fudge thickness. A square pan helps achieve clean, even cuts.
• Parchment Paper: Line your baking pan with this to make removing and slicing the fudge easier and neater.
• Microwave-Safe Bowl (optional): Useful if you melt ingredients in the microwave rather than on the stovetop.
• Toothpick or Skewer: Essential for creating that beautiful swirl design with the marshmallow fluff.
• Sharp Knife: For clean, precise cuts once the fudge has set.

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Preparation Tips

• Use room temperature ingredients where possible, especially butter, to help everything melt and combine evenly.
• Prep your pan first. Have your parchment-lined baking pan ready before you start melting anything — timing matters with fudge.
• Work quickly after melting. Once your fudge mixture is smooth and the marshmallow is added, pour and swirl fast before it starts setting.
• Don’t over-swirl. Too much mixing can muddle the design; just a few strategic swirls will give you that stunning marble effect.
• Cool at room temp before chilling. This prevents condensation from forming in the fridge, which can affect texture.

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Ingredients for This Easy Marshmallow Swirl Fudge

To make a batch of this rich and beautiful fudge, you’ll need just a few pantry staples. Each one plays a role in texture, sweetness, and structure:

• 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips – Provides the rich chocolate base with perfect melting consistency.
• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk – Adds creaminess and sweetness while helping the fudge set.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Gives the fudge a smooth finish and enhances the flavor.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Balances the sweetness and adds a subtle depth of flavor.
• 1 cup marshmallow crème (also called marshmallow fluff) – Swirled in for a light, sweet contrast and that signature marble look.
• Pinch of salt – Optional but recommended to cut the sweetness and enhance the chocolate flavor.

Optional Add-Ins:

• Crushed peppermint for a holiday twist
• Chopped nuts for texture
• Espresso powder for a mocha flavor upgrade

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Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the paper to prevent sticking.

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Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Base

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir continuously until the mixture is fully melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.

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Step 3: Pour and Spread

Quickly pour the warm chocolate mixture into the prepared pan and spread it evenly using a spatula.

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Step 4: Add the Marshmallow Swirl

Drop spoonfuls of marshmallow crème over the top of the fudge. Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the marshmallow into the chocolate, creating a marbled pattern. Don’t overmix — just a few elegant swirls will do.

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Step 5: Let It Set

Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for about 30–45 minutes, then transfer to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until firm.

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Step 6: Slice and Serve

Once fully set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Use a sharp knife to cut into clean squares. Wipe the knife between cuts for perfect edges.

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Notes

• Customize Your Swirl: For a fun twist, add a drop of food coloring to the marshmallow before swirling — perfect for themed holidays or parties.
• Double the Batch: This recipe scales well. Just use a 9×13-inch pan and double the ingredients.
• Gift-Ready: Wrap individual squares in wax paper or tuck them into treat boxes for a thoughtful homemade gift.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overheating the Chocolate: Keep the heat low to prevent the chocolate from seizing or becoming grainy.
• Adding Marshmallow Too Late: The fudge will start to set fast. Drop and swirl the marshmallow as soon as the chocolate is spread in the pan.
• Over-swirling: Swirling too much blends the layers together and ruins the striking marble effect.
• Skipping the Parchment Paper: It may seem optional, but it makes removing and cutting the fudge so much easier.
• Using Sweetened Chocolate Chips: Stick to semi-sweet to avoid overly sweet fudge, especially since you’re adding marshmallow and condensed milk.
• Not Chilling Long Enough: If the fudge isn’t fully firm before cutting, it will be sticky and difficult to slice cleanly.
• Using a Dull Knife: For the cleanest cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean after each slice.
• Storing Too Warm: Fudge left out in a warm room will soften and lose its structure — always store in a cool place.

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What to Serve With Easy Marshmallow Swirl Fudge?

Whether you’re creating a dessert platter or pairing flavors for a sweet celebration, Easy Marshmallow Swirl Fudge complements a wide variety of treats and beverages. Its rich, chocolaty base and creamy marshmallow swirls make it versatile enough to pair with everything from bold coffee to light, fruity bites.

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8 Recommendations

1. Fresh Berries

Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries provide a tart contrast that balances the fudge’s sweetness.

2. Espresso or Black Coffee

The bitterness of strong coffee cuts through the richness of the fudge, enhancing the chocolate notes.

3. Vanilla Ice Cream

Serve fudge chunks over a scoop of ice cream for a decadent, texture-filled dessert.

4. Toasted Nuts

A small bowl of almonds, pecans, or walnuts adds crunch and earthiness alongside soft fudge.

5. Cheese Platter

Believe it or not, pairing fudge with aged cheeses like gouda or sharp cheddar can create a luxurious sweet-salty balance.

6. Hot Cocoa with Whipped Cream

A cozy wintertime combo — fudge and a creamy mug of hot chocolate is comfort in every bite.

7. Salted Caramel Drizzle

Add a light drizzle of caramel on top of each fudge square for extra indulgence and a sweet-salty twist.

8. Sparkling Water with Citrus

To cleanse the palate, serve with bubbly citrus-infused water — refreshing and not overly sweet.

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Storage Instructions

Proper storage keeps your Easy Marshmallow Swirl Fudge fresh, firm, and delicious for days (or even weeks!). Follow these tips to make the most of your batch:

• Room Temperature: Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Keep it in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight.
• Refrigerator: For longer freshness, refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 2–3 weeks. Let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving for best texture.
• Freezer: Fudge freezes beautifully! Wrap individual pieces in wax paper or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Always separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per square, based on 16 servings)

• Calories: 210
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
• Cholesterol: 10mg
• Sodium: 40mg
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Sugar: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Serving Size: 1 piece (approx. 2×2 inch)
• Diet: Vegetarian
• Keywords: chocolate fudge, marshmallow swirl, easy dessert, quick sweet, no-bake treat
• Method: No-bake
• Cuisine: American
• Category: Dessert

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips?

Yes, but it will make the fudge significantly sweeter. If you prefer a milkier flavor, go for it — just be aware the texture may be slightly softer.

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2. Can I substitute marshmallow crème with mini marshmallows?

Not ideally. Marshmallow crème creates smoother swirls and blends better with the fudge. Mini marshmallows won’t melt or swirl the same way.

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3. Do I need a candy thermometer for this recipe?

Not at all! This is a no-fuss, no-thermometer-required fudge recipe — one of the reasons it’s so beginner-friendly.

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4. Why is my fudge grainy?

Graininess often results from overheating or not stirring enough while melting the chocolate. Keep the heat low and stir constantly for the smoothest texture.

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5. Can I make this fudge ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, fudge tastes even better after resting a day or two. Store it in the fridge or freezer until ready to serve.

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6. How do I make clean cuts when slicing?

Use a very sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. You can also warm the blade slightly for extra-smooth edges.

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7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the basic recipe contains no gluten. But always check your specific ingredient brands (especially vanilla extract or chocolate chips) to confirm they’re certified gluten-free.

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8. Can I add other mix-ins like nuts or candy pieces?

Definitely! Fold in chopped walnuts, almonds, peppermint pieces, or crushed cookies before pouring the mixture into the pan.

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Conclusion

Easy Marshmallow Swirl Fudge is the kind of recipe that proves beautiful desserts don’t have to be difficult. With rich, chocolatey goodness swirled with clouds of marshmallow cream, it delivers indulgence with very little effort. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned cook, this treat is foolproof, crowd-pleasing, and endlessly adaptable. Make it for the holidays, a party, or just because — and watch it disappear one square at a time.

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