Name: Chocolate Walnut Fudge
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter; 1/4 cup coconut oil; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or agave; 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts; Optional: pinch of espresso powder or cinnamon

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Rich, creamy, and naturally sweetened, this chocolate walnut fudge is the kind of indulgence I turn to when I want a treat that feels decadent but is made with simple, wholesome ingredients. It’s a no-bake recipe that’s not only gluten-free and vegan but also incredibly easy to put together in just a few minutes. Whether I’m prepping a holiday dessert platter or craving a weekday pick-me-up, this fudge never disappoints.

Chocolate Walnut Fudge

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

½ cup peanut butter or almond butter

¼ cup coconut oil

¼ cup cocoa powder

¼ cup pure maple syrup or agave

½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

¼ teaspoon salt

½ cup chopped walnuts

Optional: pinch of espresso powder or cinnamon for enhanced flavor

Directions

I line a small 8x8-inch square pan with parchment paper to make it easier to lift the fudge later.

In a medium saucepan over low heat, I melt the peanut butter and coconut oil together gently.

Once melted, I remove the pan from the heat and stir in the cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until everything is smooth and fully combined.

Then, I fold in the chopped walnuts for that signature crunch.

I pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula.

The fudge goes into the freezer for at least 1 hour until it’s firm enough to slice.

After chilling, I lift it out using the parchment paper and cut it into small squares.

I keep any leftovers in the fridge or freezer to maintain the best texture.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 16 small squares of fudge.

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 5 minutes

Chill time: 1 hour

Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Each piece contains approximately 120 kcal.

Variations

I sometimes swap the peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for a milder, nutty flavor.

Adding a pinch of espresso powder intensifies the chocolate richness—it’s a great twist for coffee lovers.

A sprinkle of sea salt on top before freezing adds a savory contrast I really enjoy.

If I want a festive touch, I stir in some dried cranberries or chopped dates for a fruity note.

For extra indulgence, I mix in some vegan chocolate chips before pouring the fudge into the pan.

Storage/Reheating

I store this fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, I freeze it—it holds up beautifully and tastes just as good straight from the freezer. I don’t recommend reheating, as the fudge is meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If it gets too soft, I just pop it back into the fridge for a few minutes to firm up again.

FAQs

How do I keep the fudge from getting too soft at room temperature?

I find that keeping the fudge chilled until just before serving helps maintain its shape. If my kitchen is warm, I prefer to serve it straight from the fridge or freezer.

Can I make this fudge nut-free?

Yes, I can substitute the nut butter with sunflower seed butter and skip the walnuts or replace them with pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Absolutely. Since it’s naturally sweetened and doesn’t require baking, it’s a fun and safe recipe to make with kids, and they love the chocolatey taste.

What can I use instead of coconut oil?

If I want to avoid coconut oil, I use refined avocado oil or vegan butter. However, I stick to fats that will solidify when chilled to maintain the fudge’s structure.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, I often double it for gatherings. I just use a larger pan (like 9x13 inches) to accommodate the extra volume and make sure the fudge chills thoroughly.

Conclusion

This chocolate walnut fudge is one of those recipes I come back to again and again. It’s easy, quick, and deeply satisfying without being overly sweet or complicated. Whether I’m sharing it with guests or sneaking a piece as a midday treat, it always delivers that rich chocolate fix in the best way.

Recipe:

Chocolate Walnut Fudge

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 16 small squares
Diet: Vegan

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Description

Rich, creamy, and naturally sweetened, this no-bake chocolate walnut fudge is a quick and easy vegan dessert made with wholesome ingredients like nut butter, cocoa, and maple syrup.