Dreamy Cheesecake Fudge Recipe: Sweet Treats Made Simple
Sweet dreams come alive with this creamy cheesecake fudge that melts like silk on your tongue.
Decadent chocolate swirls dance through each velvety bite, creating pure indulgence.
Rich cream cheese adds unexpected depth to classic fudge textures.
Minimal ingredients combine for maximum flavor in this simple dessert.
The recipe emerges from classic comfort with a modern twist that surprises.
Unexpected smoothness and intense chocolate notes make this treat irresistible.
Each piece promises a moment of pure bliss that lingers beyond the last crumb.
What Brings the Creamy Goodness to Cheesecake Fudge
Prepare this decadent treat in just 15 minutes of active time, with minimal cooking skills required.
Skip the oven completely, making this dessert perfect for hot summer days or when you want a hassle-free sweet treat.
Impress family and friends with a luxurious-looking dessert that tastes like it came from a gourmet bakery, yet is super simple to create.
Easily customize with different toppings like chocolate drizzle, fruit preserves, or sprinkles to match any occasion or personal preference.
Everything Needed for Soft Cheesecake Fudge
Base Ingredients:
Cream Cheese: Soft, tangy foundation for the fudge's creamy texture. Full-fat version recommended for best results.
White Chocolate: Smooth sweetener and binding ingredient. High-quality chocolate ensures rich flavor.
Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps set the fudge. Sifted sugar prevents lumps.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor with warm, classic notes. Pure vanilla gives better taste.
Crust and Garnish:
Graham Cracker Crumbs: Provides crunchy texture and classic cheesecake base. Fresh crumbs offer better consistency.
Melted Chocolate (Optional): Additional decoration and flavor complement. Dark or milk chocolate work well.
Fruit Preserves (Optional): Adds fruity accent and visual appeal. Homemade or high-quality preserves preferred.
Pan and Preparation:
Parchment Paper: Ensures easy removal and clean cutting. Smooth, unbleached paper recommended.
8×8-inch Baking Dish: Standard size for even fudge distribution. Glass or metal pan acceptable.
Spatula: Helps smooth and spread fudge mixture evenly. Offset spatula works best.
Steps to Create Smooth Cheesecake Fudge at Home
Step 1: Prepare Baking Dish
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper
Ensure paper extends over edges for easy lifting
Lightly spray exposed sides with non-stick cooking spray
Step 2: Whip Cream Cheese
Place softened cream cheese in mixing bowl
Use electric mixer on medium speed
Beat until smooth and fluffy
Scrape down sides of bowl periodically
Step 3: Create Sweet Base
Ingredients:
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Cream cheese mixture
Fold in powdered sugar gradually
Mix until completely incorporated
Add vanilla extract
Blend until silky consistency
Step 4: Melt Chocolate
Use double boiler or microwave
Warm white chocolate slowly
Stir frequently to prevent burning
Allow slight cooling before adding to mixture
Step 5: Combine Chocolate and Cream Cheese
Gently fold melted white chocolate into cream cheese mixture
Stir until completely smooth
Ensure no white chocolate streaks remain
Step 6: Layer Fudge
Pour half mixture into prepared pan
Spread evenly with spatula
Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs across surface
Pour remaining mixture over crumbs
Smooth top with gentle movements
Step 7: Chill and Set
Place pan in refrigerator
Allow minimum 4 hours setting time
Fudge should become firm and solid
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Remove fudge using parchment paper handles
Cut into small uniform squares
Optional garnish with extra cracker crumbs
Drizzle melted chocolate if desired
Serve chilled
Tips for a Silky Cheesecake Fudge Texture
Prevent Sticking Smoothly: Always line your pan with parchment paper, leaving extra hanging over the edges for effortless removal of the cheesecake fudge without any breaking or crumbling.
Soften Cream Cheese Perfectly: Allow cream cheese to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing to ensure a smooth, lump-free consistency that blends seamlessly with other ingredients.
Control Sweetness Carefully: Add powdered sugar gradually and taste as you go, adjusting the sweetness level to match your preference without overwhelming the delicate cream cheese flavor.
Melt Chocolate Gently: Use a double boiler or microwave in short 15-second intervals, stirring between each burst to prevent burning and achieve a silky-smooth white chocolate mixture that integrates beautifully with the cream cheese base.
Chill for Maximum Firmness: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to develop a firm texture that slices cleanly and holds its shape perfectly when served.
How to Store Cheesecake Fudge Without Losing Freshness
Store cheesecake fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep the pieces separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Wrap individual fudge squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months for longer storage.
Remove frozen fudge from the freezer and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the texture and prevents condensation.
Allow refrigerated or thawed fudge to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly and enhance the creamy texture.
Treats That Complement Cheesecake Fudge
Select a chilled Riesling or Moscato to complement the sweet, creamy cheesecake fudge, balancing its richness with a light, fruity undertone.
Arrange a side of raspberries or strawberries to add a tangy contrast and provide a fresh, bright element that cuts through the dessert's sweetness.
Brew a small shot of strong espresso to enhance the fudge's depth, creating a classic dessert pairing that highlights the white chocolate's smooth flavor.
Sprinkle candied pecans or almonds alongside the fudge to introduce a crunchy texture and caramelized sweetness that elevates the overall dessert experience.
Exciting Twists on Classic Cheesecake Fudge
Gluten-Free Version: Replace graham cracker crumbs with crushed gluten-free vanilla wafers or almond flour for a celiac-friendly alternative.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese and use dairy-free white chocolate chips to accommodate lactose-intolerant individuals.
Low-Sugar Alternative: Use monk fruit sweetener or stevia instead of powdered sugar, reducing overall sugar content while maintaining sweetness.
Chocolate Lover's Remix: Swap white chocolate with dark chocolate and add cocoa powder for an intense chocolate cheesecake fudge experience.
Indulgent chocolate cheesecake fudge brings creamy richness together with deep cocoa notes. Silky layers melt smoothly across palates, promising pure dessert bliss for chocolate enthusiasts craving intense sweetness.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
12 ounces (340g) white chocolate, melted
8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
4 cups (500g) powdered sugar, sifted
Binding and Flavor Ingredients:
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup (50g) graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuit crumbs)
Optional Toppings:
Crushed graham crackers
Chocolate drizzle
Fruit preserves
Instructions
Prepare a rectangular baking vessel by lining it meticulously with parchment paper, ensuring excess material hangs over the edges for effortless extraction.
Utilize an electric mixer to transform cream cheese into a velvety, uniform consistency, eliminating any potential lumps or textural irregularities.
Methodically integrate powdered sugar into the cream cheese, incorporating one measured portion at a time and thoroughly blending after each addition to maintain a silky texture.
Infuse the mixture with pure vanilla extract, stirring gently to distribute the aromatic essence throughout the creamy base.
Gradually introduce melted white chocolate, whisking continuously to create a harmonious, well-integrated confectionery mixture.
Transfer precisely half of the fudge composition into the prepared pan, using a spatula to create an even, smooth surface.
Generously distribute graham cracker crumbs across the initial layer, ensuring complete and uniform coverage.
Pour the remaining fudge mixture over the cracker layer, carefully smoothing the surface to achieve a pristine, level finish.
Carefully place the pan in the refrigerator, allowing the fudge to solidify and set for a minimum of four hours, or until it reaches a firm, sliceable consistency.
Extract the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper overhang, then skillfully slice into delicate, bite-sized squares.
Optionally enhance the presentation by garnishing with additional graham cracker crumbs, a delicate chocolate drizzle, or a complementary dollop of vibrant fruit preserves.
Notes
Chill the cream cheese at room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth, lump-free texture.
Use a high-quality white chocolate with at least 30% cocoa butter for the best flavor and melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
Adjust sweetness by reducing powdered sugar for a less sweet version or swap with a sugar substitute like stevia for a low-carb alternative.
Experiment with flavor variations by adding a pinch of cinnamon, lemon zest, or replacing vanilla extract with almond extract for a unique twist.
Instruction in culinary fundamentals and advanced techniques.
Development of recipes that highlight seasonal and local produce.
Mastery of artisanal bread and pastry techniques, from laminated doughs to decorative sugar artistry.
Education
Sullivan University, Louisville, Kentucky
Degree: Associate of Science Degree in Culinary Arts
Focus: Specialized in cooking techniques and culinary sciences, hands‑on externships, professional kitchen lab training, and career preparation for restaurants, entrepreneurship, and global culinary opportunities.
White Mountains Community College, Berlin, New Hampshire
Program: Baking and Pastry Arts degree
Focus: Specialized in comprehensive baking and pastry arts, including bread making, artisan breads, cake decorating and design, chocolates, confections, and decorative centerpieces; product development and baking theory; and career preparation for baker and pastry chef roles in many places.
Daves is the friendly face guiding you through flavorful, fuss-free recipes at Picture Perfect Meals.
He studied culinary arts at Sullivan University and embraced Baking and Pastry Arts at White Mountains Community College. Daves specializes in comforting meals with vibrant flavors, highlighting fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Daves Miller
Contributing Chef & Culinary Educator
Expertise
Education
Sullivan University, Louisville, Kentucky
White Mountains Community College, Berlin, New Hampshire
Daves is the friendly face guiding you through flavorful, fuss-free recipes at Picture Perfect Meals.
He studied culinary arts at Sullivan University and embraced Baking and Pastry Arts at White Mountains Community College. Daves specializes in comforting meals with vibrant flavors, highlighting fresh, seasonal ingredients.