Oh my goodness, let me tell you about Cheesecake Fudge! This dessert is like a dream come true for chocolate and cheesecake lovers alike. Imagine sinking your teeth into a rich, creamy square that feels like a hug in dessert form. It’s the perfect blend of that velvety cheesecake texture with the deep, indulgent flavor of fudge. I remember the first time I made this—my kitchen smelled heavenly, and I couldn’t resist sneaking a piece before it even cooled down! Trust me, when you take a bite, you’ll be delighted by the smooth chocolate and the creamy goodness. It’s perfect for sharing (or not!). So, are you ready to whip up this delightful treat? Let’s dive in!
Ingredients for Cheesecake Fudge
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup butter, melted
2 cups chocolate chips
1 tsp vanilla extract
How to Prepare Cheesecake Fudge
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making this incredible Cheesecake Fudge! I promise you, it’s easier than it sounds, and before you know it, you’ll be savoring the most decadent treat.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures that your fudge bakes evenly. Don’t skip this—trust me, you want that perfect texture!
In a large bowl, grab that softened cream cheese and sprinkle in the powdered sugar. Now, use an electric mixer or a good old whisk to blend them together until it’s nice and smooth. No lumps allowed here! If you find it hard to mix, you can let the cream cheese sit out for a bit before this step. That way, it’ll be easier to work with.
Step 3: Incorporate Cocoa and Butter
Next up, add in the unsweetened cocoa powder and melted butter. Mix it all together until everything is fully combined. You want a rich, chocolatey mixture that’s just calling your name!
Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips and Vanilla
Now, let’s fold in the chocolate chips and vanilla extract. Make sure to stir gently but thoroughly—this is where the magic happens! You want those chocolate chips nicely distributed throughout the batter.
Step 5: Pour and Bake
Pour that luscious mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s set when the edges look firm and the center has a slight jiggle. Don’t worry, it’ll firm up as it cools!
Step 6: Cool and Cut
Once out of the oven, let your fudge cool completely in the baking dish. Patience is key here! Once it’s cooled down, grab a sharp knife and cut it into squares. I like to serve mine with a little whipped cream on top—yum!
Tips for Success
To make sure your Cheesecake Fudge turns out absolutely perfect, here are some handy tips! First, always use high-quality chocolate chips; they really make a difference in flavor. Also, don’t skip on softening the cream cheese—this is key to achieving that smooth texture. If you find lumps in your mixture, just blend a bit longer until it’s silky! Another important tip is to keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is a little different, so check for that slight jiggle in the center as your indicator. Finally, let it cool completely before cutting—it’ll hold its shape better, and trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich, indulgent flavor that combines the best of cheesecake and fudge.
Super easy to prepare—no complicated steps or fancy equipment required!
Perfectly creamy texture that melts in your mouth with every bite.
Versatile dessert that can be topped with whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, or even fresh berries.
Makes a generous batch—ideal for sharing with friends and family (or keeping all to yourself!).
Great for any occasion, from parties to just a cozy night in.
Can be made ahead of time and stored for a sweet treat whenever the craving hits!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each delicious square of Cheesecake Fudge. Keep in mind these values can vary based on ingredients used, but it’s a good guide!
Calories: 200
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Sugar: 15g
Protein: 2g
Enjoy your fudge while being mindful of these numbers! It’s a treat, after all!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your Cheesecake Fudge fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay good for up to one week—if it lasts that long! When you’re ready to indulge again, there’s no need to reheat; just take it out of the fridge and enjoy it cold! If you prefer it slightly softened, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving. For longer storage, you can freeze the squares in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before enjoying!
FAQ Section
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe? Absolutely! You can use low-fat cream cheese if you prefer, but just keep in mind that the texture might be a bit different—maybe not as rich and creamy. It will still taste delicious!
How do I know when the Cheesecake Fudge is done baking? Great question! You’ll want to look for the edges to be set while the center has a slight jiggle. It’ll firm up as it cools, so don’t worry if it still looks a bit soft when you take it out of the oven. Just trust the process!
Can I add different flavors to the fudge? For sure! If you want to switch it up, try adding a bit of peppermint extract for a festive touch, or even some espresso powder for a mocha flavor. The possibilities are endless!
How should I serve Cheesecake Fudge? I love serving mine with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top. You could even sprinkle some crushed nuts or fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor. It’s all about what you enjoy!
Can I freeze Cheesecake Fudge? Yes, you can! Just make sure to wrap each square tightly or place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay good for about two months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying!
I share easy, flavorful recipes that make home cooking simple, fun, and totally satisfying. Let's get in the kitchen and create something delicious together!
Absolutely horrible, it’s so hard you can’t cut it, it’s not sweet. I’ll never waste my time & ingredients on this recipe
★