Fruit and nut fudge 

Fruit and nut is a classic combo and it works so well as a festive treat in this rich fruit and nut fudge. Filled with indulgent chocolate infused with coffee and vanilla, this is a seriously tasty no bake treat that you can make in minutes. Super, for when people come round unexpectedly over Christmas. It just needs a short wait in the fridge to firm up and then you’re good to go. This is a cheats fudge; no need for sugar thermometers, condensed milk is our secret weapon here. (I always use Carnation)

These are naturally gluten free which is always handy having a few GF treats up your sleeve and the even better news is that it’s so easy to make this vegan and dairy free friendly too; love an inclusive bake, or a no-bake in this case. Woop! 

Fruit and nut fudge 

Recipe 

350g dark chocolate (or vegan friendly dark chocolate)

1 tin condensed milk (or vegan friendly alternative – I use Carnation for both)

1 tsp ground coffee powder

2 tsp vanilla 

100g mixed nuts (I use pistachios, walnuts, pecans and whole almonds)

50g dried apricots

50g dried cranberries

Method

Chop the mixed nuts and dried fruits and leave to one side while you prepare the speedy fudge mixture. (Leave some aside to sprinkle on the top on the fudge when it’s ready)

Chop the chocolate and add to a saucepan. Pour in the condensed milk and add the coffee and vanilla. 

On a low heat gradually melt and combine all of the ingredients together. 

Take the pan off the heat just before the last pieces of chocolate have melted and stir until everything is lovely and smooth. (I find that it is best to gently combine everything otherwise the mixture can get a little greasy looking if overheated, so just be patient with it) 

Add in the chopped nuts and fruit and stir to combine. 

Add to a 9 inch sandwich tin and use a spoon to evenly cover the whole tin and make it as smooth as possible.

Then add the remaining fruit and nut and gently press down to help it all stick to the chocolate mixture. 

Pop it in the fridge to chill for a few hours or you can leave overnight. 

Cut the fudge into pieces. 

This is best stored in an airtight container in a cool dry place or cupboard and it will keep for about 5 days. Alternatively you can freeze it and it will keep for about a month. 

Looking for other Christmas treats? Check out our Reindeer Christmas chocolates, Chocolate nutella muffins – with a crunchie topping or even our Mince pie cookies