Easy Marshmallow Swirl Fudge

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A smooth, melt-in-your-mouth treat with stunning chocolate-marshmallow marbling, this Easy Marshmallow Swirl Fudge is as gorgeous as it is delicious. Each bite brings a rich, creamy chocolate flavor with ribbons of fluffy marshmallow crème swirled in, creating a perfect balance of textures and sweetness. It’s the kind of dessert that impresses visually and delights universally—ideal for gifting, snacking, or showcasing at any celebration.

What makes this fudge truly special is its no-fuss process. No candy thermometer. No complex sugar stages. Just a few pantry staples and a bit of swirling magic, and you’ve got a batch of fudge that looks bakery-bought. Whether you’re a seasoned home baker or trying fudge for the first time, this recipe will become a go-to favorite in your collection.

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Why You’ll Love This Easy Marshmallow Swirl Fudge

• No-Bake & Quick: Minimal effort, major reward. Perfect for last-minute desserts.
• Visually Stunning: The marble effect creates an elegant, artisanal look without fancy skills.
• Foolproof: Simple steps and common ingredients make it nearly impossible to mess up.
• Crowd Favorite: Its rich chocolate flavor and soft, chewy texture please every palate.
• Perfect for Gifting: Wrap a few pieces in wax paper and you’ve got a charming edible gift.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

(Essential Tools and Equipment, and the Importance of Each Tool)

Creating Easy Marshmallow Swirl Fudge doesn’t require fancy gadgets—just a few reliable kitchen tools to ensure smooth sailing from start to finish:

• Medium Saucepan: This is where you’ll melt your chocolate mixture. A heavy-bottomed pan is ideal to prevent scorching.
• Rubber or Silicone Spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of the pan and swirling the marshmallow crème into the fudge with smooth motions.
• 8×8-inch Baking Pan: This is the ideal size to get thick, satisfying squares. You can also use a 9×9 pan for thinner pieces.
• Parchment Paper: Lining your pan ensures an easy release once the fudge is set—no sticking, no mess.
• Microwave (optional): If you want to melt the chocolate chips separately before combining, the microwave is a quick alternative.
• Toothpick or Butter Knife: Essential for creating the marbled swirl effect in the fudge before it sets.

Having everything ready and within arm’s reach makes the process smoother—and prevents any last-minute scrambling while your fudge begins to set.

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Preparation Tips

• Use Room Temperature Marshmallow Crème: This makes it easier to swirl and integrate into the warm fudge without clumping.
• Grease the Spatula: Lightly spraying your spatula with non-stick spray keeps the sticky marshmallow crème from clinging too much.
• Don’t Overheat: Keep the heat medium to low when melting the chocolate mixture to avoid seizing or burning.
• Work Quickly: Once everything is melted and poured into the pan, the fudge starts setting fast—be ready to swirl right away.
• Cool Completely Before Cutting: For sharp, clean edges, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing with a warm knife.

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Ingredients for This Easy Marshmallow Swirl Fudge

To make this rich and creamy treat with beautiful marbled swirls, you’ll only need a handful of pantry staples:

• 3 cups semisweet chocolate chips – For that deep, classic chocolate flavor
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk – Adds sweetness and creates a smooth, creamy base
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Helps with texture and adds richness
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of warmth
• 1 cup marshmallow crème (fluff) – For that light, airy swirl and signature look

Optional but recommended:

• Pinch of salt – Balances out the sweetness
• Non-stick spray or butter – For greasing your spatula and pan liner

Simple, accessible, and perfectly portioned—this combination creates a gorgeous and indulgent fudge that’s both easy and unforgettable.

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Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy lifting later. Lightly grease the parchment with non-stick spray or a bit of butter to make sure the fudge releases cleanly.

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Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Base

In a medium saucepan over low to medium heat, combine the semisweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir continuously until everything is fully melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt if using.

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Step 3: Pour and Swirl

Quickly pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Immediately dollop spoonfuls of marshmallow crème over the top—use about a tablespoon at a time. Take a butter knife or toothpick and gently swirl the marshmallow into the fudge in figure-eight motions. Be careful not to overmix—you want those beautiful contrasting swirls to stand out.

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Step 4: Chill Until Set

Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is firm to the touch. For quicker setting, you can place it in the freezer for about 45 minutes.

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Step 5: Slice and Serve

Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Use a sharp knife (warmed under hot water and wiped dry) to slice into neat squares. Wipe the knife between cuts for the cleanest look.

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Notes

• Marshmallow Crème Tips: Slightly warming the marshmallow crème (just a few seconds in the microwave) makes it easier to swirl and spread.
• Flavor Boosters: Add a ½ teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the chocolate mix for a deeper cocoa flavor.
• Texture Twist: Want some crunch? Stir in chopped toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts before swirling in the marshmallow.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overheating the Chocolate: High heat can cause chocolate to seize or become grainy. Always melt over low to medium heat and stir constantly.
• Delaying the Swirl: Once the fudge is poured into the pan, act fast—waiting too long will cause it to firm up and make swirling difficult.
• Overmixing the Swirls: If you swirl too much, you’ll lose the striking contrast and end up with a muddy look instead of beautiful marbling.
• Skipping Parchment Paper: Don’t pour the fudge directly into the pan without lining it. You’ll struggle to get clean pieces and risk sticking.
• Cutting Too Early: If you try slicing before the fudge is fully set, it will stick to your knife and crumble instead of giving you sharp, pretty squares.

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What to Serve With Easy Marshmallow Swirl Fudge?

This fudge is rich and satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right drinks or bites can turn it into a complete dessert experience or a sweet feature in a larger spread.

8 Recommendations

1. Hot Chocolate or Mocha – Intensify the chocolate experience by sipping on something warm and creamy alongside your fudge squares.
2. Espresso or Black Coffee – The bold bitterness of coffee cuts through the sweetness and balances every bite.
3. Vanilla Ice Cream – Crumble fudge over a scoop of vanilla for a cold-and-creamy contrast.
4. Fresh Berries – A side of raspberries or strawberries brings tartness and freshness that complements the richness.
5. Salted Pretzels – Add a crunchy, salty twist by serving with pretzel sticks or twists—perfect for texture play.
6. Toasted Nuts – A bowl of roasted almonds or pecans brings out nutty undertones and adds crunch.
7. Whipped Cream or Mousse – Serve fudge as part of a dessert plate with dollops of whipped cream or chocolate mousse.
8. Dessert Platter with Caramels and Truffles – For parties or gifts, include it on a board with other bite-sized candies for visual and flavor variety.

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Storage Instructions

To keep your Easy Marshmallow Swirl Fudge tasting fresh and fabulous:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Refrigerator: For longer shelf life, refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 2–3 weeks. Let it sit at room temp for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.
• Freezer: Fudge freezes well! Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or on the counter before enjoying.

Layer pieces with parchment paper if stacking to prevent them from sticking together.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving – based on 16 pieces per batch)

• Calories: ~190
• Total Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 10mg
• Sodium: 35mg
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 24g
• Protein: 2g
• Serving Size: 1 square (approx.)
• Diet: Vegetarian
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-bake
• Cuisine: American
• Keywords: fudge, no-bake dessert, marshmallow swirl, chocolate fudge, quick sweet recipe

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use white chocolate instead of semisweet?

Yes! You can substitute white chocolate chips for a completely different twist. The sweetness will be more intense, so consider reducing the marshmallow crème slightly or adding a pinch of sea salt.

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2. What’s the difference between marshmallow crème and melted marshmallows?

Marshmallow crème (or fluff) is smoother and more stable for swirling. Melted marshmallows tend to be thicker and set quickly, which can make swirling harder and messier.

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

No thermometer required! This fudge is designed to be beginner-friendly and doesn’t rely on reaching specific sugar temperatures—just melt, swirl, chill, and enjoy.

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4. Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Absolutely. Stir in chopped toasted nuts, crushed cookies, or even toffee bits just before pouring the fudge into the pan for added texture.

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5. How do I get clean cuts when slicing the fudge?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry. Clean the blade between each slice for smooth, bakery-style squares.

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6. Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Double all ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. Keep an eye on chilling time—larger batches may need more time to fully set.

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7. Is this fudge gluten-free?

It can be. All core ingredients are typically gluten-free, but always check labels—some chocolate chips or marshmallow crèmes may contain traces of gluten.

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8. How long does this fudge take to set?

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For a faster set, place it in the freezer for about 45 minutes, but let it come to room temp a bit before slicing.

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Conclusion

Easy Marshmallow Swirl Fudge proves that you don’t need a candy thermometer or a professional kitchen to whip up a stunning, rich, and indulgent dessert. Its eye-catching swirls and melt-in-your-mouth texture make it a winning treat for holiday trays, party platters, and sweet cravings of any kind. With simple steps, minimal ingredients, and endless room for creativity, this fudge is sure to be a staple in your homemade sweets lineup.

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