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This two-in-one treat blends cookie dough and fudge into something you won't be able to resist. Featuring classic flavors of chocolate, peanut butter, and colorful candies, this no-bake monster cookie dough fudge is a winner. It's great for adding to holiday trays, giving as gifts, or just enjoying whenever you need something sweet.
I came up with this when my children wanted cookies during a heatwave. They said the bright candies looked like tiny monsters, and that's where the fun name came from. Now my family asks for it at every get-together.
What You Need
- All purpose flour: Gives body and that real cookie dough taste. We'll heat it up first so it's totally safe in this no-bake creation
- White chocolate chips: Form the smooth base. Go for something good like Ghirardelli for best results
- Sweetened condensed milk: Creates that wonderful fudgy consistency and adds sweetness
- Regular and mini M&Ms: Add pops of color and little chocolate bursts throughout
- Butter: Brings in that homey cookie richness
- Brown sugar: Gives you that deep cookie dough flavor you love
- Granulated sugar: Works with the brown sugar for just the right sweetness level
- Half and half: Makes everything creamy without making it too runny
- Vanilla extract: Ties all the tastes together with a warm background note
How To Make It
- Get Your Pan Ready:
- Put parchment paper in an 8x8 inch pan and give it a light spray. The paper works like handles to pull out the finished fudge, and the spray keeps things from sticking.
- Make the Flour Safe:
- Put your flour in a microwave-safe bowl and zap it for one minute flat. This kills any germs without changing how it tastes. Let it cool all the way, then sift it to get rid of any lumps.
- Chill Your Candies:
- Take 1 cup regular M&Ms and 1/2 cup mini M&Ms, put them in separate freezer bags, and stick them in the freezer while you work. This trick stops their colors from running into your fudge.
- Mix Up The Cookie Part:
- Beat the butter, both sugars, half and half, vanilla, and salt for about 2 minutes until it looks fluffy. Add your cooled flour and mix just enough to blend it in. This makes the cookie dough part of your treat.
- Make The Fudgy Part:
- Melt your white chocolate chips with the sweetened condensed milk. Do this in 30-second bursts, stirring each time until it's smooth. Watch it carefully - white chocolate can get lumpy if it gets too hot.
- Put It All Together:
- First mix those frozen candies into your cookie dough mixture. Then gently fold in the white chocolate mix until just combined. Don't stir too much or the colors will run.
- Let It Firm Up:
- Spread everything evenly in your pan. Sprinkle the rest of the candy on top, pressing down slightly. Put it in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Cut And Enjoy:
- Cut into 25 squares. For nice clean edges, run your knife under hot water and wipe it dry between cuts.
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The bright M&Ms make this treat extra special to me. My grandma always had a jar of them on her counter, and this dessert brings back memories of visiting her house as a kid when she'd let us grab a handful as a treat.
Planning Ahead
This fudge tastes even better after sitting for a bit as the flavors come together. You can make it three days before you need it for the best taste. Keep cut pieces in a sealed container in your fridge for up to two weeks. If you want to save it longer, wrap single pieces in plastic, put them in a freezer bag, and freeze for up to three months. Just thaw them overnight in your fridge before eating.
Simple Swaps
You can switch things up easily with this recipe. Try using Reese's Pieces, chocolate chips, or chopped candy bars instead of M&Ms. For holidays, go with candies in seasonal colors. Need it gluten-free? Just use a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour mix. Don't have half and half? Any milk or non-dairy option works fine too.
Ways To Serve It
Add these fudge squares to a dessert platter with fresh fruit and other small sweets. For parties, pop each piece into a mini cupcake wrapper so they're easy to grab. They go great with coffee, hot cocoa, or a glass of cold milk. Want something extra fancy? Warm a piece slightly and top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
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This fun fudge will bring joy to anyone who takes a bite—sweet treats made simple!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I switch the type of M&M’s for this treat?
Absolutely! Peanut butter or dark chocolate M&M’s both make fun and tasty alternatives to the classic kind.
- → Why do I need to heat the flour beforehand?
It makes the flour safe to eat raw by killing any bacteria that might still be in it.
- → Can I swap white chocolate chips for another type?
Sure, try milk or dark chocolate chips, though the flavor of the final treat will be different.
- → What's the best way to keep these bars fresh?
Pop them into an airtight container and refrigerate. They'll stay good for about a week.
- → Is it okay to freeze these bars?
Definitely! Just wrap them up tight in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll keep for up to three months. Let them thaw in the fridge when you're ready to eat.