These Chocolate Nut and Fruit Fudge Bars are an easy, no-bake treat that combines the creamy sweetness of condensed milk with rich chocolate, crunchy nuts, and chewy dried fruits. Perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings, these bars are versatile, allowing you to use your favorite nuts and fruits for a personal twist. Ideal for gifting, snacking, or serving as a quick dessert, this recipe requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor and texture.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Fudge Bars:

• 1 can condensed milk (360-380 g)
• 80 g chocolate or chocolate glaze (milk, dark, or white chocolate)
• 20 g butter or coconut oil
• 200 g nuts and dried fruits of choice (e.g., cranberries, cashews, almonds, raisins, or apricots)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chocolate Base:

1. Melt the Chocolate:
   In a heatproof bowl, combine chocolate and butter or coconut oil. Melt using a double boiler (placing the bowl over a pot of simmering water) or in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each interval until smooth.
2. Add the Condensed Milk:
   Pour the condensed milk into the melted chocolate mixture, stirring until fully combined. The mixture should be smooth, creamy, and well-blended.

2. Add Nuts and Dried Fruits:

1. Prepare the Nuts and Fruits:
   Roughly chop any large nuts or dried fruits if necessary (e.g., cashews, almonds, apricots) to ensure even distribution in the fudge.
2. Combine with Chocolate Mixture:
   Add the chopped nuts and dried fruits into the chocolate and condensed milk mixture. Stir until they are evenly incorporated throughout the mixture.

3. Set the Fudge Bars:

1. Line a Baking Dish:
   Line a small baking dish (approximately 8×8 inches) with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. Pour and Smooth the Mixture:
   Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
3. Chill to Set:
   Place the dish in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until firm. For a quicker setting time, you can place it in the freezer for 1 hour.

4. Slice and Serve:

1. Cut into Bars:
   Once the fudge has set, use the parchment overhang to lift it out of the dish. Place it on a cutting board and cut it into squares or rectangles.
2. Serve:
   Enjoy these fudge bars as a sweet snack or dessert. They’re delicious on their own but can also be topped with a dusting of cocoa powder, sea salt, or shredded coconut for added flavor and presentation.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving for one bar, assuming 16 servings):

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 14g

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use other types of chocolate?
Absolutely! Dark, milk, or even white chocolate all work well. For a healthier option, use dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content.

Q2: Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, simply use a plant-based condensed milk, dairy-free chocolate, and coconut oil instead of butter.

Q3: What other nuts and fruits work well in this recipe?
Try a combination of almonds, walnuts, pistachios, or pecans. Dried apricots, raisins, or goji berries make excellent fruit options, too.

Tips for Making the Best Chocolate Nut and Fruit Fudge Bars

1. Use Quality Ingredients:
   Since this recipe uses few ingredients, high-quality chocolate and fresh nuts/dried fruits make a big difference in taste.
2. Experiment with Flavors:
   Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of sea salt to enhance the chocolate flavor. You could even add a dash of cinnamon or espresso powder for extra depth.
3. Portion Control:
   This fudge is rich, so consider cutting it into smaller pieces if you prefer bite-sized treats.
4. Customize Your Texture:
   For added crunch, lightly toast the nuts in a dry pan before mixing them in. This brings out their natural oils and enhances flavor.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration:
  Store these fudge bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Freezing:
  These bars freeze well for up to 3 months. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before eating.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Nut and Fruit Fudge Bars offer a delightful mix of creamy, crunchy, and chewy textures in every bite. Quick and easy to make, they’re the perfect homemade treat for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert, a snack to share, or a fun gift idea, these fudge bars are sure to satisfy. With endless customization options, you can create a new flavor combination each time! Enjoy the decadence of chocolate with the wholesome crunch of nuts and sweetness of dried fruits in this simple, no-bake recipe.