Creamy Vegan Fudge Recipe (A Guilt-Free Dessert)

Looking for the perfect vegan fudge recipe can be a bit overwhelming. You search high and low online, hoping to find one that’s both rich and creamy without any animal products.

I know the feeling—I’ve been there! It seems like there are so many options, but none of them quite hit the mark. That’s when I decided to take matters into my own hands.

With my love for cooking and some experimentation, I set out to create a fudge that doesn’t compromise on taste or ethics.

And you know what? I nailed it! The result is a homemade Vegan Fudge Recipe that not only meets the dietary restrictions of a vegan lifestyle but also wows everyone who tries it. It’s my go-to recipe for a guilt-free, sweet treat that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.

What Is Vegan Fudge Recipe?

Vegan fudge is a sought-after dessert that mirrors the classic fudge experience without animal products. It’s crafted from plant-based ingredients, frequently including coconut oil, almond butter, and maple syrup to achieve its rich, creamy texture.

This homemade delicacy is great for those adhering to a vegan lifestyle or anyone interested in dairy-free alternatives.

Vegan Fudge Recipe solves the problem of missing out on traditional sweets by offering a delicious, ethical, and, in most cases, healthier option. It’s a testament to how versatile and satisfying vegan cooking can be.

Quick Fact: Vegan fudge, leveraging plant-based ingredients, offers a delightful alternative to traditional sweets. It caters to diverse dietary preferences while maintaining rich, creamy textures and decadent flavors.

Recipe Directions

• Preheat The Oven To 350ºF (175ºC): Spread the hazelnuts on a rimmed baking sheet. Roast them on the middle rack for 10-13 minutes until fragrant and toasty. Smaller hazelnuts will need just 10 minutes.
• Steam The Hazelnuts: Immediately transfer them to a clean, thin dish towel and wrap them tightly. Let them steam in the towel for 2 minutes, then vigorously rub the towel with your hands. This friction helps loosen the skin. It’s okay if not all the skins come off.
• Chop The Hazelnuts: Once cool enough, roughly chop them. No need to chop finely.
• Prepare The Pan: Lightly oil an 8×4-inch loaf pan, a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or an 8×8-inch square baking pan and line it with parchment paper. The oil helps the paper stick but doesn’t mix into the regular fudge.
• Melt The Chocolate And Condensed Milk: Combine the condensed coconut milk and chocolate in a heat-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 90 seconds. You might need an extra 15 seconds if your microwave has lower wattages.

• Let The Mixture Rest: After microwaving, let it sit for 1 minute, then stir with a silicone whisk until smooth.
• Add The remaining ingredients: While still warm, add the almond butter, vanilla, and a pinch or two of sea salt. Whisk until well combined and thick. Fold in the chopped hazelnuts.
• Transfer The fudge: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula or fingers. Sprinkle lightly with sea salt, about a scant ¼ teaspoon.
• Chill The Fudge: Place in the fridge for 1 to 2 hours until set. Let it come to room temperature before slicing. For extra flavor, sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving.                        
• Store The Fudge: Wrap it tightly in plastic or an airtight container. It lasts at room temperature for 1 to 2 weeks, in the fridge for longer, or frozen for up to 3 months.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings 

Variations

• Flavor Extracts: Besides vanilla, consider peppermint, orange, or almond extract for a flavor twist.
• Spices: Mix in cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for a warm spice note.

Add-Ons

• Nuts: Hazelnuts, walnuts, pecans, or almonds can be added for crunch. Toasting them beforehand enhances their flavor.
• Seeds: Pumpkin seeds or sunflower seed butter offer a nutritious crunch.
• Dried Fruit: Chopped dates, raisins, cranberries, or cherries introduce a chewy texture and natural sweetness.

Toppings

• Sea Salt: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top before chilling adds a delightful, sweet-salty contrast.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt additional dark chocolate and drizzle over the set fudge for a decorative and tasty finish.
• Nut Butter Swirl: Dollop almond or peanut butter on top of the Vegan Fudge Recipe mixture, then use a toothpick to create swirls.
• Coconut: Sprinkled shredded coconut adds texture and a tropical flavor.
• Edible Flowers: Top with edible flowers before the fudge sets for a visually sweet treat.

Vegetable Substitutions 

• Zucchini Ribbons For Pasta: A great low-carb, gluten-free alternative that’s light yet satisfying.
• Cauliflower Rice For White Rice: Offers a nutritious, lower-calorie option, perfect for stir-fries and bowls.
• Mushroom Caps For Burger Patties: Portobello mushrooms make a hearty, flavorful substitute for burgers.
• Butternut Squash: It is a good ingredient for cheese sauce. When pureed, it gives vegan cheese sauces a creamy texture and sweet, nutty flavor.
• Eggplant For Lasagna Noodles: Thinly sliced eggplant layers well, offering a meaty texture to lasagna.
• Avocado For Butter: Provides a creamy, healthy fats substitute in spreads and baking.
• Sweet Potato For Toast: Sliced and toasted, it’s a nutrient-rich base for toppings.
• Bell Peppers For Sandwich Bread: Halved and seeded, they create a crunchy, flavorful wrap.

Quick Tip: It’s better to use high-quality dark chocolate and pure vanilla extract when making traditional fudge. These ingredients significantly impact the richness and depth of flavor.

Best Side Dishes 

1. Roasted Vegetable Medley Seasonal vegetables, olive oil, and herbs.
2. Hummus Creamy chickpea dip with lemon and garlic.
3. Avocado Spread Mashed avocado with lime and cilantro.
4. Tomato Basil Soup Rich and comforting, perfect for dipping.
5. Olive Tapenade A savory mix of olives, capers, and olive oil.
6. Ratatouille A stewed vegetable dish that complements the bread’s texture.
7. Quinoa Salad Fluffy quinoa with vegetables and a lemon vinaigrette.
8. Lentil Stew Hearty and flavorful, offering protein and warmth.
9. Baba Ganoush Smoky eggplant dip with tahini and garlic.
10. Stuffed Bell Peppers Filled with rice, beans, and spices for a hearty side.

How To Serve?

• Classic Cut: Slice the fudge into squares or rectangles and serve as individual pieces.
• With Coffee Or Tea: Offer alongside a hot beverage for a cozy snack.
• Dessert Platter: Arrange on a platter with other vegan sweets for variety.
• Ice Cream Topping: Crumble and sprinkle over vegan ice cream for added texture.
• Gift Boxes: Package in decorative boxes or tins as thoughtful homemade gifts.
• After Dinner: Serve small squares as a light dessert after a meal.
• Party Favors: Wrap in cellophane and tie with a ribbon for party guests.
• With Fruit: Pair with fresh berries for a refreshing and elegant dessert option.

Quick Tip: For the best texture in gluten-free vegan bread, ensure your flour blend is well-balanced between whole grains and starches. This yields a light, airy loaf.

Storage & Make Ahead

• Storage: Store Vegan Fudge Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the vegan fudge mixture and pour it into the pan as directed. Instead of chilling, cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply slice and enjoy! This make-ahead method saves time and ensures fresh, delicious fudge whenever you crave it.

Quick Tip: Did you know that the first recorded recipe for bread dates back over 30,000 years, making it one of the oldest prepared foods in human history?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use A Different Type Of Nut Butter In My Vegan Fudge?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for almond butter for its creamy texture and mild flavor, you can easily substitute it with other nut butter like cashew butter or peanut butter.

Each type of nut butter will bring a unique taste and consistency to your fudge. Ensure it’s unsweetened and creamy to maintain the desired texture and sweetness level.

What If My Fudge Doesn’t Set Properly In The Fridge?

If your fudge has yet to set after the recommended chilling time, it might be due to a few factors, such as the moisture content of the ingredients or not enough chilling time.

You can leave it in the fridge for a few more hours or overnight. If it still doesn’t set, freezing is an option to firm it up enough to cut. For future attempts, ensure your measurements are precise, especially for the liquid ingredients.

How Can I Make My Vegan Fudge Sweeter Or Less Sweet?

The sweetness of your traditional Vegan Fudge Recipe can be adjusted by varying the amount of sweetened condensed coconut milk or the type of chocolate used. You can choose a chocolate with a lower cocoa percentage for a sweeter fudge or add a bit more condensed milk.

Opt for a higher cocoa percentage chocolate or slightly less condensed milk to reduce sweetness. Remember, making adjustments will also affect the texture.

Is It Possible To Make This Fudge Without A Microwave?

Yes, you can melt the chocolate and condensed milk without a microwave. Use a double boiler or a heat-safe bowl set over a pot of simmering water.

Stir constantly until the chocolate is melted and smooth, then proceed with the recipe as directed. This method gives you more control over the melting process and prevents the melted chocolate from burning.

Can I Add Other Ingredients To The Vegan Fudge Recipe?

Definitely! This vegan fudge recipe is versatile, and you’re encouraged to add other ingredients according to your preferences.

For a mocha flavor, mix dried fruit like cranberries or cherries, a swirl of natural peanut butter, or a sprinkle of espresso powder. Toasted nuts, seeds, or vegan marshmallows can add interesting textures and flavors. Just be mindful of the added moisture content from very wet add-ins.