If you have a sweet tooth and love indulgent treats that require minimal fuss, this No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Layers of buttery crushed shortbread cookie base combined with a rich, creamy fudge middle and topped with luscious melted chocolate create a dessert that feels like pure luxury. The best part? No oven is needed, making it perfect for those warm days or last-minute cravings. It’s a delightful blend of textures – crumbly, chewy, and silky – that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients sets the stage for this simple but spectacular dessert. Each component has a purpose, from the satisfying crunch of the crushed shortbread to the velvety smoothness of the melted chocolate layer on top.
- 200g shortbread cookies (crushed): Choose quality shortbread for a buttery, crumbly texture that acts as the perfect base.
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk: Adds creamy sweetness and helps bind the cookie layer together beautifully.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Brings richness and moisture, ensuring the base sets firm yet tender.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed): Infuses a deep caramel flavor that complements the shortbread and chocolate perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall sweetness with warm, aromatic notes.
- 1 1/2 cups dark or semisweet chocolate chips: Forms the luscious, glossy chocolate top layer full of decadence.
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional for drizzle or swirl): Adds a pretty, sweet contrast if you want to get creative with decoration.
How to Make No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Base Mixture
Start by lining an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang to help you lift the slice out later with ease. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, brown sugar, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly until everything is melted and the mixture begins to bubble gently, usually about 3 to 5 minutes. This step is critical as it melds the flavors and activates the sugar to develop that caramel depth. Once bubbling, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract immediately to preserve its aroma.
Step 2: Incorporate Crushed Shortbread Cookies
Now it’s time to fold in the crushed shortbread cookies. Make sure all the crumbs are fully coated with the buttery fudge mixture, creating a sticky, cohesive base. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into your prepared pan—don’t be shy with the pressure! A tightly packed base means your slice will hold together beautifully without crumbling when cut.
Step 3: Add the Chocolate Layer
Melt the dark or semisweet chocolate chips using a microwave in short bursts or a double boiler until smooth and glossy. Pour this chocolate over the shortbread layer, spreading it evenly to cover every inch. For an extra special touch, melt the white chocolate chips and either drizzle them over the dark chocolate or create elegant swirls using a toothpick. This not only adds a stunning visual but also a delightful sweet note to balance the richness.
Step 4: Chill and Set
Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours or until the slice is completely firm. This step is essential to allow the layers to set fully, making cutting neat and serving easier. Once set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the slice from the pan and cut into 16 equally sized squares. Voilà —your no-bake wonder is ready to delight!
How to Serve No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice Recipe
Garnishes
Keep it simple or dress it up—a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the chocolate can enhance the sweetness and add a subtle crunch. For a festive touch, add crushed nuts, edible gold leaf, or even fresh berries on the side to brighten up the presentation.
Side Dishes
This slice pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra creamy contrast. A cup of strong coffee or a rich black tea is perfect to balance the sweetness and bring out the chocolate flavors even further.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your slice in small decorative paper liners or on elegant dessert plates with a contrasting sauce drizzle, like raspberry coulis or salted caramel. Layering the squares in a clear glass container also makes for a tempting visual treat at gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the texture firm and fresh. The slice will stay delicious for up to one week, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for busy days or unexpected guests.
Freezing
You can freeze the slice by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container. When properly stored, it will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to preserve its perfect fudgy texture.
Reheating
This no-bake slice is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating isn’t recommended. However, if you prefer a slightly softened texture, leave it at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This will bring out more of the chocolate’s richness without losing its structure.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cookies instead of shortbread?
Absolutely! While shortbread gives a buttery, tender base, you can experiment with digestive biscuits or graham crackers for a slightly different texture and flavor. Just keep in mind it may alter the overall taste and sweetness slightly.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the fudge slice?
Yes, refrigeration helps the layers set firmly and keeps the slice fresh. Leaving it at room temperature for too long may cause the chocolate topping to become soft and the base to lose its structure.
Can I omit the white chocolate swirl?
Definitely! The white chocolate drizzle is optional and mainly serves as a decorative and flavor contrast. The slice is delicious and complete with just the dark or semisweet chocolate layer.
How can I make the base crunchier?
Try adding chopped nuts like pecans or almonds, or even crushed pretzels to the base mixture for extra crunch and a delightful twist in texture and flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly since it contains no meat products and uses simple dairy ingredients. Just check your chocolate chips’ ingredients if you want to avoid any animal-derived additives.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a delicious homemade dessert that feels indulgent but comes together quickly, this No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice Recipe should be at the top of your list. It’s the perfect balance of buttery crispness, fudgy richness, and decadent chocolate that’s bound to please any crowd. I’m excited for you to try it and discover how easy it is to whip up a treat that looks like it took hours but tastes like pure love.
Print
No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: British-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice is a delightful British-inspired dessert combining a crunchy shortbread cookie base with a rich, buttery fudge layer topped with silky dark chocolate and optional white chocolate swirls. Perfectly easy to prepare without an oven, this treat offers a luscious balance of sweet and chocolatey flavors, making it an ideal indulgence for any occasion.
Ingredients
Base Layer
- 200g shortbread cookies, crushed
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup (packed, about 110g) brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (about 130g) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate Topping
- 1 1/2 cups (about 270g) dark or semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup (about 90g) white chocolate chips (optional, for drizzle or swirl)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
- Make the Fudge Base: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly until everything melts together and the mixture starts to bubble gently, about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to infuse flavor.
- Combine with Cookies: Add the crushed shortbread cookies to the warm mixture and mix thoroughly until all cookie crumbs are fully coated and integrated into the fudge base.
- Press into Pan: Transfer the cookie-fudge mixture into the prepared pan, pressing firmly and evenly to create a compact layer that forms the slice’s base.
- Melt the Chocolate Topping: Melt the dark or semisweet chocolate chips either in the microwave in short bursts or over a double boiler until smooth and creamy. Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the cookie base and gently spread to cover.
- Add White Chocolate Swirl (Optional): If desired, melt the white chocolate chips similarly and drizzle over the dark chocolate layer. Use a toothpick or skewer to swirl the white chocolate into patterns for a decorative effect.
- Chill to Set: Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours or until the fudge slice is firm and set.
- Slice and Serve: Once fully set, lift the fudge slice out using the parchment paper overhang and slice into approximately 16 squares. Serve chilled for best texture and taste.
Notes
- You can use store-bought shortbread cookies or homemade for the base layer depending on your preference.
- For added crunch and texture, try mixing in chopped nuts or crushed pretzels into the base mixture before pressing it into the pan.
- Keep the fudge slice refrigerated to maintain freshness and ensure the best chewy texture.
- This dessert can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- If white chocolate is not desired, the topping can be just the dark chocolate layer for simplicity.
