If you’re looking for an irresistible, crowd-pleasing dessert that comes together in a snap, this No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice needs to jump to the top of your must-make list! Every bite boasts a rich, buttery shortbread base hugged by creamy white chocolate fudge, all layered together without ever turning on the oven. Whether you’re prepping for a family gathering, a holiday party, or just a night in with friends, this treat delivers big on nostalgic flavor and pure ease. Yes, you only need pantry favorites, and the result is a slice that feels special enough for any occasion—it’s the kind of recipe everyone will beg you for once they’ve had a taste.

No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice so magical is how each simple ingredient punches above its weight in both flavor and texture. From the crumbly cookies to the silky chocolate, these kitchen staples work together to make every bite feel like a celebration.

Shortbread cookies: The rich, buttery flavor and crisp texture are the backbone of this slice, ensuring a classic base with every delicious bite.
Unsalted butter: Helps bring all the ingredients together, adding extra melt-in-your-mouth richness to both the base and the fudge layer.
Sweetened condensed milk: This sticky-sweet ingredient gives the fudge its creamy, smooth consistency and binds everything without baking.
Brown sugar: Adds warmth, a deeper caramel note, and a slightly chewy texture that keeps you reaching for just one more square.
Vanilla extract: Infuses the fudge with aroma and rounds out the sweetness perfectly.
Salt: Just a touch enhances every flavor, balancing that sweet, buttery richness beautifully.
White chocolate chips: Melting these into the fudge layer creates that dreamy, smooth texture with a hint of vanilla creaminess.
Chopped nuts (optional): For a satisfying crunch and extra depth of flavor—pecans or walnuts work especially well here.
Sprinkles or sea salt for topping (optional): Finish with a pop of color or a savory kick for a fun, festive presentation.

How to Make No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Crush the Cookies

Begin by lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang on the sides for easy fudge removal later. Meanwhile, crush your shortbread cookies into fine, sandy crumbs—pop them in a food processor if you have one, or seal them tightly in a bag and roll them with a rolling pin. Tip the crumbs into a large mixing bowl and set aside; this will form the perfect, sturdy base for your slice.

Step 2: Cook the Fudge Base

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, salt, and vanilla extract, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until you see the sugar has dissolved and everything thickens slightly. This bubbling mixture is what gives the fudge its extra luscious, melt-on-the-tongue texture.

Step 3: Melt in the White Chocolate

Remove your saucepan from the heat, and immediately stir in the white chocolate chips. Don’t rush this step—the chips should melt fully to make a lovely, glossy, and totally smooth fudge. If you want to add chopped nuts, now’s the time to fold them into the mixture.

Step 4: Mix and Press the Slice

Pour the fudge mixture over your reserved shortbread crumbs, then stir until every crumb is coated and the mixture looks well blended. Scrape the mixture into your lined pan, pressing it down evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon. For a little extra flair, scatter sprinkles or a pinch of flaky sea salt on top before it sets.

Step 5: Chill and Slice

Pop your pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice has set firm. When ready, lift the entire slab out using the parchment overhang and cut into neat squares. Each piece boasts that gorgeous, creamy fudge finish and a perfectly crisp base—total dessert joy!

How to Serve No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice

Garnishes

You can keep things classic with a simple scattering of colorful sprinkles, which makes every piece look like a party, or go for a modern touch with a pinch of flaky sea salt to really make the flavors pop. If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle some melted chocolate or caramel on top for pure decadence.

Side Dishes

The rich sweetness of this slice pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you’re serving with coffee or tea, the buttery notes of the No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice make every sip even more indulgent.

Creative Ways to Present

For holidays, cut your slices into shapes with cookie cutters, or serve them in delicate mini cupcake liners for a boutique-style feel. Stack them high on a pretty dessert platter, or wrap individual pieces in parchment and tie with twine to give as charming homemade gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, your No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice will keep beautifully for up to a week. The chilly environment keeps the fudge firm and the flavors perfectly fresh, so you can snack at your leisure or enjoy a sweet treat whenever you fancy.

Freezing

This slice freezes exceptionally well. Layer the pieces with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container and seal tightly. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw a piece or two in the fridge overnight, and it’ll taste just as dreamy as the day you made it.

Reheating

No need to reheat this treat—straight from the fridge or after a gentle thaw from the freezer, it’s perfectly soft, creamy, and ready to enjoy without any fuss. If you like your slice a tiny bit softer, you can let it sit at room temperature for five minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Dessert

Absolutely! While classic shortbread gives the best buttery texture, graham crackers or digestive biscuits work very well in this recipe. Just be sure to crush them finely and use the same quantity for reliable results.

Is it possible to make this No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice dairy-free?

Yes, simply substitute with dairy-free butter, dairy-free sweetened condensed milk, and vegan white chocolate chips. The texture remains satisfyingly creamy, and you can share with anyone avoiding dairy.

Can I add flavorings to the fudge?

Definitely! A teaspoon of instant coffee, orange zest, or a tiny splash of almond extract can add a delicious twist to the base flavor. Just remember that a little goes a long way, especially with potent extracts.

Why isn’t my fudge setting properly?

If your No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice is too soft, it’s often due to undercooking the fudge base or not chilling it long enough. Be sure to simmer the sugar mixture until thickened and chill for the full two hours—overnight if you can wait!

How can I make this slice extra festive?

Jazz things up by swirling in some colored sprinkles, using holiday-themed cookie cutters, or topping each square with a candied nut or edible glitter. It’s a simple way to transform this slice for any special celebration.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t tried making a No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice yet, now’s the perfect time to dive in! You’ll love how effortless it is—and once you take that first bite of creamy, buttery goodness, you’ll be hooked. Try it out, share a few pieces with friends, and watch this cozy classic become a new favorite in your dessert rotation!

No-Bake Shortbread Fudge Slice Recipe

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4.7 from 14 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling)
Yield: 16 squares 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich and sweet flavors of this no-bake Shortbread Fudge Slice. A delectable treat perfect for any occasion, especially during the holidays.

Ingredients

Scale

Shortbread Cookie Base:

1 (8.8 oz) package shortbread cookies, crushed (about 2 cups)

Fudge Layer:

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup white chocolate chips
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Sprinkles or sea salt for topping (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Shortbread Base: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper. Crush shortbread cookies into fine crumbs and set aside.
Make the Fudge Layer: Melt butter in a saucepan, add brown sugar, condensed milk, salt, and vanilla. Simmer until slightly thickened. Remove from heat, stir in white chocolate until smooth.
Combine and Chill: Mix fudge with cookie crumbs, add nuts if desired, press into pan. Top with sprinkles or salt. Chill for at least 2 hours.
Serve: Lift out using parchment, slice into squares and enjoy!