I still remember the first time I made this fudge. I needed a quick treat for my sister’s birthday party, and I didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
This recipe saved the day!
The kids loved it. My friends asked for the recipe. And now I make it all the time – for parties, as gifts, or just when I’m craving something sweet.
What makes this marshmallow swirl fudge so great? It’s super easy. No fancy tools. No baking. Just melt everything, add the marshmallow swirls, and let it cool in the fridge. The chocolate part is rich and smooth. The marshmallow creates pretty white swirls and makes some bites extra gooey and sweet.
If you want a simple chocolate treat that looks impressive but is actually really easy to make, you’ll love this fudge. I can’t wait for you to try it!
Now, let’s make some fudge…
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re craving a decadent chocolate treat that requires zero baking skills, this Marshmallow Swirl Fudge is about to become your new obsession! Each velvety square delivers:
- Melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s perfectly balanced between firm and creamy
- Rich chocolate depth from premium semi-sweet chocolate that satisfies the most intense cravings
- Heavenly marshmallow ribbons swirled throughout for that perfect sweet contrast
- No candy thermometer required – making this foolproof for even novice candy makers
- Make-ahead convenience – perfect for gifts, parties, or midnight snacking
- Endless customization options to suit any flavor preference
Quick Facts
Irresistible Marshmallow Swirl Fudge is a deliciously simple no-bake treat that combines rich, creamy chocolate with swirls of sweet marshmallow fluff. This fudge requires no candy thermometer or special equipment—just melt chocolate chips with sweetened condensed milk and butter, stir in vanilla and salt, then create beautiful ribbons of marshmallow throughout.
After chilling for a couple of hours, you’ll have perfectly set squares of velvety chocolate fudge with gooey marshmallow swirls that melt in your mouth. It’s an easy-to-make dessert that looks impressive, satisfies chocolate cravings, and makes a wonderful homemade gift for friends and family on any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 16 squares
- Calories: 225 per square
- Difficulty Level: Beginner-friendly
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan – For gently melting the chocolate mixture without burning
- Silicone spatula – Helps scrape every bit of chocolate and creates smooth, even swirls
- 8×8-inch baking dish – The perfect size for 1-inch thick fudge squares
- Parchment paper – Creates a non-stick surface and easy removal
- Knife – Used for both swirling the marshmallow and cutting perfect squares
- Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient measurements
- Optional: kitchen torch – If you want to create toasted marshmallow flavor
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Fudge Base:
- 2 cups (12 oz) semi-sweet chocolate chips – provides the rich chocolate foundation
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk – creates the perfect fudgy texture
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – adds richness and smooth mouthfeel
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – enhances the chocolate flavor
- ¼ teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness
For the Marshmallow Swirl:
- 1 cup marshmallow fluff (or marshmallow cream) – creates those gorgeous, gooey swirls
How To Make
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some paper hanging over the edges to help you remove the fudge later.
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter together. Stir constantly until smooth. This takes about 3-5 minutes. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
Pour the chocolate mixture into your lined baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula.
Drop spoonfuls of marshmallow fluff on top of the warm chocolate. Use a knife to gently swirl the marshmallow into the chocolate. Don’t mix too much – you want to see the swirls.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm. Once set, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper, cut into squares, and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Perfect Fudge
- Use high-quality chocolate chips – The chocolate is the star, so choose a brand you love to eat on its own.
- Keep heat low and slow – Melting chocolate too quickly can cause it to seize or become grainy.
- Room temperature marshmallow fluff works better for swirling than cold fluff straight from the refrigerator.
- For defined swirls, don’t overwork the marshmallow. Less is more when creating those beautiful ribbons.
- Chill thoroughly before cutting – patience yields perfect squares!
- For a professional finish, trim the edges before cutting into squares.
- If making in humid weather, reduce exposure to air during setting to prevent the fudge from absorbing moisture.
- Measure precisely – candy making requires accuracy for consistent results.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Fudge too soft | Not chilled long enough | Refrigerate longer, at least 4 hours or overnight |
| Grainy texture | Chocolate overheated | Always melt over low heat and stir constantly |
| Marshmallow disappearing | Fudge too hot when swirling | Let fudge cool slightly before adding marshmallow |
| Fudge sticking to knife | Knife too warm or dry | Dip knife in hot water, then wipe dry between cuts |
| Uneven swirls | Marshmallow too cold | Let marshmallow reach room temperature before swirling |
Ingredient Alternatives
- Chocolate chips: Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or white chocolate chips work beautifully
- Sweetened condensed milk: For dairy-free version, use coconut condensed milk
- Butter: Coconut oil (use same amount) for dairy-free option
- Vanilla extract: Almond extract, mint extract, or orange extract for flavor variations
- Marshmallow fluff: Make your own with melted marshmallows and a bit of corn syrup
Creative Variations
S’mores Fudge
- Add a graham cracker crust (1½ cups crushed graham crackers + ⅓ cup melted butter)
- Sprinkle crushed graham crackers on top after swirling
Rocky Road Fudge
- Fold in ½ cup chopped nuts and ¼ cup mini marshmallows before adding the marshmallow swirl
Peanut Butter Dream
- Drop spoonfuls of warmed peanut butter along with the marshmallow fluff for a double-swirl effect
Mint Chocolate Swirl
- Replace vanilla extract with ½ teaspoon mint extract
- Add a few drops of green food coloring to the marshmallow fluff
Cookies & Cream
- Fold in ¾ cup crushed Oreo cookies before swirling
- Sprinkle additional cookie crumbs on top
Salted Caramel
- Drizzle ¼ cup of caramel sauce along with the marshmallow
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top after swirling
Serving Suggestions
- Dessert Platter: Pair with fresh berries and whipped cream for an elegant dessert plate
- A la Mode: Serve slightly warmed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Hot Beverage Companion: Alongside coffee or hot chocolate for the ultimate indulgence
- Holiday Gift: Package in decorative tins with parchment paper between layers
- Dessert Charcuterie: Include with cookies, fruits, and other sweet treats
- Drizzled Presentation: Add a light drizzle of melted white chocolate before serving for visual appeal
- Garnished: Top with a light dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar for a professional finish
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers
- Keeps fresh for up to 1 week
- Allow to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for optimal texture
Freezer Storage
- Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container
- Freeze for up to 3 months
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for 1 hour before serving
Gift Packaging
- For gifting, place in decorative tins or boxes lined with parchment paper
- Keeps at room temperature for 2-3 days if kept cool and dry
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use mini marshmallows instead of marshmallow fluff?
While you can, mini marshmallows will melt more readily into the fudge rather than creating distinct swirls. If using mini marshmallows, melt them first with a teaspoon of butter to create a marshmallow cream.
Why did my fudge turn out grainy?
Grainy fudge usually results from overheating the chocolate or rapid temperature changes. Always melt chocolate over low heat and stir constantly.
Can I make this recipe in a larger batch?
Yes! Double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan for larger batches. Note that it may require additional chilling time.
How can I tell when the fudge is properly set?
Properly set fudge will be firm to the touch and pull away slightly from the sides of the pan. It should have no jiggle when the pan is gently shaken.
Can I make this fudge without condensed milk?
This specific recipe relies on condensed milk for its texture and setting properties. For alternatives, you would need a completely different recipe approach using heavy cream and sugar.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The base recipe is gluten-free, but always check your chocolate chip and marshmallow fluff labels to ensure they don’t contain any gluten ingredients or cross-contamination.
My marshmallow swirl disappeared into the fudge. What happened?
If the chocolate mixture is too hot when adding the marshmallow fluff, it can melt completely into the fudge. Allow the chocolate to cool slightly (but still remain pourable) before adding the marshmallow.
Enjoy your homemade Marshmallow Swirl Fudge! If you try this recipe, please leave a comment below and let us know how it turned out. Don’t forget to tag us in your creations on social media.
Recipe Card
Irresistible Marshmallow Swirl Fudge
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Fudge Base:
- 2 cups 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips – provides the rich chocolate foundation
- 1 can 14 oz sweetened condensed milk creates the perfect fudgy texture
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted – adds richness and smooth mouthfeel
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – enhances the chocolate flavor
- ¼ teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness
For the Marshmallow Swirl:
- 1 cup marshmallow fluff or marshmallow cream – creates those gorgeous, gooey swirls
Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some paper hanging over the edges to help you remove the fudge later.
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter together. Stir constantly until smooth. This takes about 3-5 minutes. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
- Pour the chocolate mixture into your lined baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Drop spoonfuls of marshmallow fluff on top of the warm chocolate. Use a knife to gently swirl the marshmallow into the chocolate. Don’t mix too much – you want to see the swirls.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm. Once set, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper, cut into squares, and enjoy!