Name: Monster Cookie Dough Fudge Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 min
Total time: 2 h 17 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled; 1½ cups plain M&M’s, divided into 1 cup and ½ cup; 1 cup plain mini M&M’s, divided into ½ cup and ½ cup; ½ cup salted sweet cream butter, softened; ¼ cup granulated sugar; ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed; 2 tablespoons half and half; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1½ cups good quality white baking chips; 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk

Jump to Recipe· 4.8 from 19 reviews

Monster Cookie Dough Fudge is the brilliantly playful, no-bake dessert you never knew you needed—until now! Imagine the chewy, familiar nostalgia of classic cookie dough, blended with rivers of creamy fudge and festively studded with colorful M&M’s. This gooey, sweet treat is as eye-catching as it is crave-worthy, transforming simple ingredients into party-ready squares that vanish in a blink. Whether you’re satisfying a weeknight craving or impressing at a potluck, Monster Cookie Dough Fudge is destined to be your new go-to indulgence.

Monster Cookie Dough Fudge Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients couldn’t be more straightforward, but each one plays an essential role in nailing that signature taste, gooey texture, and irresistible pops of color that make Monster Cookie Dough Fudge so fun. From the creamy base to the vibrant candies, every component helps build layers of flavor and delight.

All-purpose flour: Provides the classic cookie dough structure and texture—give it a quick microwave to make it safe for munching!
Plain M&M’s: Bursts of chocolate and color throughout the fudge, plus a gorgeous topping—freeze some to prevent color bleed.
Mini M&M’s: Smaller bursts of chocolate add even more festive color and crunch to every bite.
Salted sweet cream butter: Delivers rich, buttery flavor and perfectly softens everything together.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and that familiar cookie dough “snap.”
Light brown sugar: For deep, caramel-like notes and authentic cookie dough warmth.
Half and half: Helps achieve the fudgy, creamy consistency you want in every square.
Pure vanilla extract: Rounds out all the flavors, giving that freshly-baked vibe.
Salt: Essential to balance the sweetness and amplify all the other flavors.
White baking chips: Melt into a velvety base for the fudge; a good brand really makes a difference here.
Sweetened condensed milk: Responsible for the luscious, gooey texture that sets fudge apart from just cookie dough.

How to Make Monster Cookie Dough Fudge

Step 1: Prep the Pan

Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, making sure to let a bit of excess hang over for easy fudge removal later. Give it a light spritz with nonstick spray—this little step guarantees your Monster Cookie Dough Fudge lifts out in perfect, picture-ready slabs.

Step 2: Heat-Treat the Flour

Flour might seem harmless, but to safely enjoy that gooey, raw cookie dough flavor, it needs a minute in the microwave to zap any lurking bacteria. Measure out your cup of flour into a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 1 minute. Allow it to cool completely, then sift to banish any clumps—no one wants a floury surprise!

Step 3: Chill the M&M’s

Divide out 1 cup of regular M&M’s and ½ cup of mini M&M’s into separate quart-size zipper bags and pop them in the freezer. This quick chill is more than a fun science experiment—it prevents the bright candy coating from melting or bleeding color into your fudge later.

Step 4: Cream the Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter, white sugar, brown sugar, half and half, vanilla, and salt for about 1½ to 2 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. This creaming step is where the cookie dough magic really begins!

Step 5: Mix in the Flour

Switch your mixer to low speed and add your cooled, sifted flour. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix; a tender, doughy texture is exactly what you want here. Set this bowl of edible cookie dough aside for a moment.

Step 6: Make the Fudge Base

In a separate, microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, until the mixture is fully melted and irresistibly smooth—this forms the sumptuous foundation of your Monster Cookie Dough Fudge.

Step 7: Add the Chilled M&M’s

Take the now-cold M&M’s out of the freezer and gently stir them into the cookie dough mixture with a wooden spoon. The cold candies help maintain their vibrant color and add delightful bursts of texture throughout.

Step 8: Combine & Spread

Pour the melted white chocolate mixture into your bowl of M&M-studded cookie dough, stirring just enough to make sure everything is evenly blended. Spoon the whole mixture into your prepared pan, using a spatula to nudge it into every corner.

Step 9: Decorate & Chill

Sprinkle the reserved M&M’s and mini M&M’s over the top, pressing them gently so they stick. Tightly cover the pan and let the fudge chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or even overnight for the best texture. It’s worth the wait!

Step 10: Slice and Enjoy

Once it’s set, use the parchment to lift the fudge out of the pan. Slice into 25 squares—5 by 5—for perfectly portioned bites. Each piece is a rainbow-studded explosion of joy.

How to Serve Monster Cookie Dough Fudge

Garnishes

A little extra flourish goes a long way! Try drizzling some melted white or dark chocolate across the top, or sprinkle even more mini M&M’s just before serving for irresistible color and crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of flaky sea salt makes each bite extra indulgent.

Side Dishes

Since Monster Cookie Dough Fudge is sweet, pairing it with something a bit lighter is a win. Serve alongside a bowl of fresh strawberries or a platter of sliced apples to contrast the richness. Coffee, milk, or even a cold scoop of vanilla ice cream turns this into ultimate dessert heaven.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the fudge into fun shapes using cookie cutters or stack cubes in glass jars for party favor gifts. Present them on a vibrant platter, or layer in cupcake liners for grab-and-go treats at a bake sale or picnic. You can even thread fudge cubes onto skewers with marshmallows and berries for a playful dessert kabob.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Monster Cookie Dough Fudge keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to a week. Just transfer the squares into an airtight container, placing parchment between layers to prevent sticking. The chilled, dense texture actually improves over a day or two, so don’t be afraid to make it ahead of time.

Freezing

For longer storage, fudge freezes wonderfully! Individually wrap each square in parchment or plastic wrap, then seal in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy.

Reheating

While this treat is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, if you accidentally leave it a bit too long in the chill, let it stand at room temperature for 10–15 minutes to soften. No microwaving necessary—this is one snack that’s meant to be cool and creamy!

FAQs

Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Absolutely! While white chocolate helps create a sweet, creamy base that lets the M&M colors pop, you can swap in milk or even semisweet chocolate chips for a different flavor profile. Just be aware the final color will change, but the fudge will still taste fantastic.

Is it really safe to eat raw cookie dough in this fudge?

Yes! The flour is microwaved to kill any potential pathogens, making this Monster Cookie Dough Fudge completely safe to eat for all ages. Always remember to let the flour cool thoroughly before adding it to the mix.

Can I use gluten-free flour for Monster Cookie Dough Fudge?

You sure can. Swap in your favorite one-for-one gluten-free baking flour blend, and just be certain to heat-treat it the same way to ensure safety. The cookie dough fudge texture should stay deliciously close to the original.

How do I keep the M&M colors from bleeding?

Popping the M&M’s and mini M&M’s in the freezer before mixing them in is key! It keeps their candy shells crisp, prevents them from melting, and maintains those gorgeous, bold colors right where you want them.

Can I double the recipe for a party?

Definitely! Just double everything and use a 9×13-inch pan. You might need to adjust the chilling time, but you’ll be rewarded with plenty of Monster Cookie Dough Fudge for sharing—or for keeping just a few extra squares all to yourself.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a treat that’s equal parts nostalgia, flavor, and color, Monster Cookie Dough Fudge is as fun to make as it is to share. Don’t be surprised if it becomes the most-requested recipe in your circle—give it a try and prepare to be everyone’s favorite dessert-maker!