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If you’re looking for a luscious dessert that feels indulgent yet comes together effortlessly, this No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice Recipe is your new best friend. The buttery crumbly shortbread base paired with a rich, creamy chocolate fudge topping creates a sublime contrast of textures and flavors that will delight your taste buds and impress anyone lucky enough to share it. Perfect for those moments when you crave something sweet without turning on the oven, this recipe balances simplicity and decadence with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and richness. From the crispiness of the shortbread crumbs to the smooth creaminess of the fudge topping, these essentials are all about turning simple pantry staples into an unforgettable dessert.
- Shortbread biscuits (1 1/2 cups, crumbled): Choose your favorite buttery shortbread for the perfect crumbly base texture.
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup melted + 1/4 cup for fudge): Butter adds richness and helps bind the base while enriching the fudge topping.
- Powdered sugar (1/4 cup, optional): Adds subtle sweetness and helps bring the base crumbs together.
- Semisweet chocolate chips (1 cup): The heart of the fudge topping, offering that deep chocolate flavor with just the right sweetness.
- Sweetened condensed milk (1/2 cup): Gives the fudge its creamy, velvety texture and natural sweetness.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic note.
- Pinch of salt (optional): A tiny pinch helps to balance the sweetness and intensify the chocolate flavor.
How to Make No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by crumbling your shortbread biscuits into a large bowl, then mix in the powdered sugar if you like it a bit sweeter. Pour in the melted butter and stir everything together until every crumb is fully coated and the mixture holds together when pressed. This simple base forms the buttery, crunchy foundation of your slice.
Step 2: Press the Base into the Pan
Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper to make removal a breeze. Press the shortbread mixture evenly across the base of the pan, applying gentle pressure to compact it tightly. Pop this pan in the fridge while you move on to making the luscious fudge topping—this chilling step helps the base firm up nicely.
Step 3: Make the Fudge Topping
Combine the semisweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter in a heatproof bowl. Set the bowl over a pot of simmering water and stir patiently until the chocolate and butter melt into a smooth, glossy mixture. This double boiler method ensures the chocolate melts evenly without scorching, giving the fudge a perfect silky texture.
Step 4: Add Flavoring
Once your chocolate and butter mix is luxuriously smooth, take the bowl off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. These finishing touches might seem small, but they elevate the flavor to something truly special—bringing warmth and depth to the chocolate fudge.
Step 5: Assemble the Slice
Pour your warm fudge topping over the chilled shortbread base, spreading it out smoothly with a spatula. Make sure the layer is even to create that perfect proportion of crunchy base and creamy fudge in every bite.
Step 6: Chill
Refrigerate your assembled slice for at least 2 to 3 hours. This chilling time is crucial as it allows the fudge to set firm and the flavors to meld, transforming this slice from a quick mixture into a decadent dessert.
Step 7: Serve
Once firm, slice into squares or bars. Each piece offers a mouthwatering combination of creamy, rich chocolate fudge sitting atop a crisp, buttery shortbread base. This is the kind of treat that’s perfect for afternoon tea or a sweet finish to a dinner party.
How to Serve No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice Recipe
Garnishes
Add a delightful extra touch by sprinkling finely chopped nuts, a dusting of cocoa powder, or a drizzle of caramel on top before serving. These garnishes bring texture, color, and that little something extra to make the dessert feel truly special.
Side Dishes
This slice pairs wonderfully with a simple cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk. If you’re serving it as part of a dessert spread, fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, consider cutting the slice into bite-sized squares and serving on decorative platters. Layer them individually in clear mini cups with whipped cream for a fancy no-fuss presentation. You can even top with edible flowers for a stunning visual appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice refrigerated in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days, allowing you to savor a piece whenever the chocolate cravings strike without any loss of flavor or texture.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you want a treat, just thaw in the fridge overnight, and you’re ready to enjoy the same creamy, crunchy goodness.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake dessert, reheating is generally not necessary. If you prefer a slightly softer texture, let the slice come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture of the fudge topping.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of chocolate for the fudge topping?
Absolutely! While semisweet chocolate chips provide a perfect balance of sweet and rich, you can swap in dark chocolate for a more intense flavor or milk chocolate for something sweeter. Just adjust sweetness accordingly.
Is the powdered sugar in the base necessary?
The powdered sugar is optional but recommended if you want a slightly sweeter base. You can omit it if you prefer a more buttery, less sweet flavor or if your shortbread biscuits are already quite sweet.
Can I make this dessert vegan or dairy-free?
With a few swaps, yes! Use vegan shortbread biscuits, dairy-free butter alternatives, vegan chocolate chips, and a dairy-free condensed milk substitute. The texture might vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
How thick should I make the fudge layer?
The fudge layer should be thick enough to sit nicely atop the base without overwhelming it—about a half to three-quarters of an inch works well. This ensures each slice has a perfect chocolate-to-shortbread ratio.
Why does the fudge slice need so much chilling time?
Chilling allows the fudge topping to firm up completely and the butter in the base to solidify. This ensures clean slicing and a pleasant texture where the slice holds together beautifully without being too soft or crumbly.
Final Thoughts
This No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice Recipe is the kind of dessert that makes you want to share it with friends again and again. Easy to prepare, requiring no oven, and delivering incredible flavor and texture contrasts, it’s a winner for casual gatherings or whenever a sweet craving calls. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own go-to treat!
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Print
No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 to 16 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Western
Description
This No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice combines a crunchy shortbread biscuit base with a creamy, rich chocolate fudge topping. Perfectly easy to prepare without any baking, this indulgent treat is cool-set in the fridge, making it a great dessert or snack for chocolate lovers seeking a quick, fuss-free delight.
Ingredients
Shortbread Base
- 1 1/2 cups shortbread biscuits, crumbled
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (optional)
Fudge Topping
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: In a large bowl, combine the crumbled shortbread biscuits and powdered sugar (if using). Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture is well combined and the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press the Base into the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. Press the shortbread mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan, packing it down gently. Place the pan in the fridge to chill while you prepare the fudge topping.
- Make the Fudge Topping: In a heatproof bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water using the double boiler method, stirring continuously until the chocolate and butter melt completely and the mixture becomes smooth.
- Add Flavoring: Remove the bowl from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, mixing until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Assemble the Slice: Pour the chocolate fudge mixture evenly over the chilled shortbread base, spreading it carefully with a spatula.
- Chill: Refrigerate the assembled slice for at least 2 to 3 hours, or until the fudge layer is set and firm to the touch.
- Serve: Once fully chilled and set, slice the dessert into 12 to 16 squares or bars depending on preferred size. Enjoy this creamy, crunchy chocolate treat!
Notes
- For best results, use high-quality semisweet chocolate chips.
- The powdered sugar in the base is optional, depending on your desired sweetness.
- Ensure the fudge topping is completely melted and smooth before pouring over the base for even setting.
- This dessert must be kept refrigerated to maintain its texture and firmness.
- Can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- For a nutty twist, consider adding chopped nuts to the base or topping.
