If you love quick desserts that feel bakery-level fancy with barely any effort, this Bailey’s Chocolate Fudge is about to become your new favorite. Smooth, rich, and melt-in-your-mouth creamy, this fudge recipe comes together in minutes using simple pantry staples. It’s perfect for holidays, gifting, coffee breaks, or anytime you need an easy dessert that looks impressive without complicated steps.
This recipe delivers deep chocolate flavor balanced with a silky texture, making it ideal for beginner cooks and seasoned bakers alike. Whether you’re planning a dessert platter or craving something sweet after dinner, this fudge always hits the spot.
Why You’ll Love This Bailey’s Chocolate Fudge
- Quick & Easy: No candy thermometer, no baking, no stress
- Ultra-Creamy Texture: Sweetened condensed milk guarantees smooth results
- Rich Chocolate Flavor: Semi-sweet chips keep it balanced, not overly sweet
- Perfect for Gifting: Slices beautifully and stores well
- Customizable: Easy to make family-friendly with simple swaps
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of ingredients to create this indulgent dessert:
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup Bailey’s Irish cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How to Make Bailey’s Chocolate Fudge (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides. This makes removal and slicing much easier later.
Step 2: Melt the Base
In a saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir constantly until everything is melted and smooth. Keep the heat low to prevent scorching.
Step 3: Add Flavor
Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the Bailey’s Irish cream, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined and glossy.
Step 4: Set the Fudge
Pour the mixture into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Tap gently on the counter to release air bubbles.
Step 5: Chill & Slice
Refrigerate for about 2 hours, or until firm. Lift the fudge out using the parchment, then slice into squares and enjoy.
Tips & Variations
- Make It Family-Friendly: Replace Bailey’s with heavy cream plus extra vanilla
- Extra Chocolatey: Add mini chocolate chips on top before chilling
- Festive Touch: Sprinkle flaky sea salt or crushed candy canes on top
- Nut Lover’s Option: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans
- Clean Cuts: Warm your knife slightly before slicing for neat edges
Serving Ideas & Storage
Serve this fudge with hot coffee, tea, or as part of a dessert tray. It also makes a wonderful edible gift—just wrap squares in parchment and store in a decorative tin.
Storage:
- Refrigerator: up to 2 weeks in an airtight container
- Freezer: up to 2 months (thaw overnight in the fridge)
Easy Bailey’s Chocolate Fudge Recipe
Description
Ultra-creamy, rich Bailey’s Chocolate Fudge made with sweetened condensed milk and semi-sweet chocolate chips. This quick stovetop fudge sets firm in the fridge and is perfect for holidays, gifting, or an easy chocolate dessert.
Ingredients
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 (14 oz / 396 g) can sweetened condensed milk
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1/4 cup Bailey’s Irish Cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang.
In a saucepan over LOW heat, combine chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter.
Stir constantly until melted and smooth (do not boil).
Remove from heat; stir in Bailey’s, vanilla extract, and salt until glossy and combined.
Pour into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Refrigerate for 2 hours, or until firm.
Lift out using parchment and cut into squares.
Notes
Keep heat low—overheating can cause grainy fudge.
For neat slices, warm a knife under hot water, wipe dry, then cut.
Storage: airtight in the fridge up to 2 weeks; freeze up to 2 months (thaw in fridge).
Family-friendly swap (no alcohol): replace Bailey’s with 1/4 cup heavy cream + 1/2 tsp extra vanilla (or 1/4 cup evaporated milk + 1 tsp vanilla).
Optional toppings: flaky sea salt, mini chocolate chips, crushed candy canes, or chopped nuts before chilling.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~180 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbs | 22g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 60mg |
Final Thoughts
This Bailey’s Chocolate Fudge proves that an elegant dessert doesn’t need to be complicated. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you get a rich, creamy treat that’s perfect for celebrations, gifting, or everyday indulgence. Once you try it, you’ll want to keep a batch in the fridge at all times.