If you’re in the mood for something decadent, simple, and completely irresistible, this No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice is about to become your go-to treat. Imagine velvety chocolate fudge hugging buttery shortbread crumbs, all set up in a chill (literally!) no-bake format that’s perfect for any occasion. Minimal fuss, maximum flavor, and no oven needed — what’s not to love?
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of how each ingredient works in harmony to create blissful results. Every element, from the humblest crumb to the richest chocolate, contributes to the texture, flavor, and enticing look of the No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:
- Shortbread cookies (250g, crushed): These are the backbone of the slice, bringing that signature buttery, melt-in-your-mouth bite.
- Sweetened condensed milk (395g can): Adds caramel-like sweetness and richness while keeping everything lusciously moist.
- Dark chocolate (200g, chopped): Deep, bold chocolate flavor gives the fudge its satisfying depth.
- Milk chocolate (100g, chopped): Lends a creamy, milder chocolate note for perfectly balanced sweetness.
- Unsalted butter (125g, cubed): Brings silkiness and elevates the smooth texture of the fudge layer.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Just a hint boosts all the chocolate and shortbread flavors, rounding them out beautifully.
- Pinch of salt: This small addition heightens every other flavor and keeps the sweetness in perfect check.
How to Make No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice
Step 1: Line and Prepare Your Tin
Start by lining a square baking tin (20cm is perfect) with parchment paper. Let the paper overhang a bit so you’ll have easy “handles” to lift out the finished slice later. This little trick makes all the difference when you want neat, Instagram-worthy squares.
Step 2: Crush the Shortbread Cookies
In a large mixing bowl, add your crushed shortbread cookies. You can break them down in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin for bigger chunks or go finer with a food processor. The texture is completely up to you—chunkier bits give a bit more crunch!
Step 3: Make the Fudge Mixture
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, chopped dark chocolate, chopped milk chocolate, and cubed butter. Stir constantly with a spatula or wooden spoon as everything melts together; you want a silky, glossy mixture with all the chocolate fully dissolved.
Step 4: Add Flavorings
Remove the saucepan from the heat, then stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. This gentle finishing touch makes the chocolate taste richer and the shortbread more buttery by contrast.
Step 5: Combine with Shortbread
Pour the smooth chocolate fudge mixture over your crushed shortbread cookies. Stir with a sturdy spatula until every crumb is thickly coated and there are no dry patches in sight.
Step 6: Press into the Tin
Scrape the mixture into your prepared tin, then press it down firmly and evenly. A spatula or the back of a spoon works perfectly for smoothing the top until it’s glossy and level.
Step 7: Chill Until Set
Now, the hardest part: patience! Pop your tin in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours (longer is great if you can wait). The No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice needs this time to set up firm and slice like a dream.
Step 8: Slice and Enjoy
Lift the chilled fudge slice from the tin using the paper overhang. Place it on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut into neat squares. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of chocolate fudge and buttery crumb.
How to Serve No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice
Garnishes
Dress up your No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice with a light dusting of cocoa powder or a scattering of chopped nuts—pistachios, pecans, or even freeze-dried raspberries work beautifully. A gentle drizzle of melted white chocolate just before serving can turn each square into a gourmet delight.
Side Dishes
Pair these slices with a pot of strong, hot coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for outright dessert bliss. If you’re hosting, set them alongside a platter of fresh berries for a lighter balance, or serve with a cheese board for an intriguing sweet-and-savory contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the fudge into mini squares for a festive treat at parties, or wrap each piece in parchment and twine for adorable edible gifts. You can even layer slices with whipped cream and fruit in parfait glasses for a showstopping, deconstructed dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any extra No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh, fudgy, and dreamy for up to a week—if it lasts that long!
Freezing
Want to stash some for later? Place individual fudge slices between layers of parchment in a container, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge whenever you need a sweet pick-me-up.
Reheating
No need to reheat this treat! If you love your fudge extra soft, simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving—perfect for that melt-in-your-mouth bite.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cookies instead of shortbread?
Absolutely! While shortbread gives the classic buttery flavor, experiment with digestive biscuits, graham crackers, or even gluten-free options to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Is it possible to make No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice vegan?
Yes—you can swap in plant-based butter, use coconut condensed milk, and pick dairy-free chocolate. Just double-check your cookies to keep everything vegan-friendly.
Why did my fudge slice not set properly?
Usually, this happens if the mixture was too warm or not chilled long enough. Make sure to refrigerate it for at least 3 hours, and don’t skip the butter and chocolate, since they help it firm up.
How can I make my fudge slice look extra fancy?
Try topping each square with a swirl of melted chocolate, a sprinkle of sea salt flakes, or a few edible gold stars. Presentation is half the fun, especially if you’re serving guests!
Can I add nuts or fruit to the mixture?
Yes! Stir in chopped walnuts, pecans, or dried fruit like cranberries or cherries for extra flavor and crunch. Even a handful of freeze-dried raspberries adds a pop of color and zing.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a decadent, effortless treat, it’s hard to beat the charm of No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice. With its dreamy layers of chocolate and that perfect cookie crunch, one batch will never be enough—so don’t wait to try it for yourself!
Print
No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 16 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Australian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of this No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice. A delightful combination of sweet shortbread cookies, creamy condensed milk, and luscious chocolate, all coming together in a simple yet irresistible treat.
Ingredients
Sweet Shortbread Cookies:
- 250g plain sweet shortbread cookies (crushed)
Fudge Mixture:
- 395g can sweetened condensed milk
- 200g dark chocolate (chopped)
- 100g milk chocolate (chopped)
- 125g unsalted butter (cubed)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare Tin: Line a square baking tin with parchment paper, leaving some overhang.
- Mix Cookies: Crush the shortbread cookies in a bowl.
- Make Fudge: Melt condensed milk, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and butter in a saucepan. Stir until smooth.
- Combine: Add vanilla extract and salt to the chocolate mixture. Pour over crushed cookies.
- Set: Press mixture into the tin, smooth the top, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
- Serve: Once set, slice into squares and enjoy!
Notes
- Enhance with chopped nuts or freeze-dried raspberries for added texture.
- Opt for gluten-free shortbread cookies for a gluten-free version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
