Rainbow Fudge Squares

Rainbow Fudge Squares are a colorful, delightful twist on classic fudge, perfect for celebrations, gifting, or simply brightening your dessert table. Made with layers of vibrant, creamy fudge in a rainbow of hues, this treat is as visually stunning as it is delicious. The smooth texture and sweet, rich flavor of white chocolate fudge combine with fun, eye-catching colors to create a dessert that’s sure to impress both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Rainbow Fudge Squares recipe stands out for its simplicity, vibrant appeal, and versatility. It uses basic pantry ingredients and requires no baking, making it ideal for beginner and experienced bakers alike. Whether you’re preparing treats for a birthday party, holiday platter, or special event, this fudge brings both flavor and fun. It’s also customizable, allowing you to play with different colors and flavors to suit any occasion.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• White chocolate chips

• Sweetened condensed milk

• Butter

• Vanilla extract

• Gel food coloring (in red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple)

Directions

1. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

2. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.

3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

4. Divide the mixture evenly into six bowls.

5. Add a different color of gel food coloring to each bowl, mixing until each portion is vibrantly colored.

6. Starting with one color (e.g., purple), pour it into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Chill for 10–15 minutes to allow it to firm slightly before adding the next layer.

7. Repeat with each remaining color, chilling each layer before adding the next to prevent blending.

8. Once all layers are assembled, chill the entire pan for at least 2 hours or until completely set.

9. Lift the fudge out using the parchment overhang, cut into squares, and serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: Approximately 36 squares
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Total time: About 3 hours

Variations

• Flavorful Layers: Add a different extract to each color layer, such as almond, orange, lemon, or peppermint, to enhance flavor.

• Pastel Version: Use less gel coloring for a softer, pastel-themed fudge – great for baby showers or springtime events.

• Chocolate Base: Swap the white chocolate for semi-sweet or milk chocolate for a richer, darker rainbow fudge.

• Themed Colors: Customize the color palette to match specific events like team colors, holiday themes, or personal favorites.

Storage/Reheating

Store Rainbow Fudge Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. Separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. Thaw frozen fudge in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Fudge does not require reheating but can be brought to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

FAQs

What type of food coloring works best for rainbow fudge?

Gel food coloring is recommended because it provides vibrant color without altering the texture of the fudge.

Can I use white chocolate bars instead of chips?

Yes, as long as they are good-quality and melt smoothly, white chocolate bars can be substituted for chips.

Do I have to chill each layer before adding the next?

Chilling each layer prevents colors from blending together and helps create clean, distinct layers.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free white chocolate and sweetened condensed coconut milk to make a dairy-free version.

How do I avoid the fudge from sticking to the pan?

Use parchment paper with an overhang on all sides to easily lift the fudge from the pan after setting.

Is there a way to speed up the setting process?

You can place the fudge in the freezer for shorter chilling times, but monitor closely to avoid over-hardening.

Can I use natural food coloring?

Yes, but natural food colorings may not be as vibrant and may slightly affect flavor.

Can I make this fudge ahead of time?

Yes, it stores well and can be made several days or even weeks in advance if frozen properly.

Why is my fudge grainy?

Grainy fudge typically results from overheating or not stirring enough. Keep the heat low and stir constantly.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply use a larger baking pan and adjust chill times accordingly to ensure proper setting.

Conclusion

Rainbow Fudge Squares are a visually stunning, easy-to-make dessert that combines color, flavor, and fun in every bite. Perfect for parties, holidays, or everyday indulgence, this no-bake treat is both customizable and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re crafting it for kids or simply embracing your inner child, this colorful fudge is sure to brighten any occasion.