15-Minute No-Bake Low-Carb Chocolate Fudge
Rich, creamy chocolate fudge made with cashew butter and cacao powder, sweetened with sugar-free confectioners sugar. This no-bake version comes together in minutes and delivers intense chocolate flavor without the carbs. Perfect for keto and low-carb diets, serve as an elegant dessert or gift. The cashew butter base creates a luxuriously smooth texture that sets firm yet melts on the tongue.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Melt the butter.
- 2
Combine melted butter with cashew butter until creamy.
- 3
Add cacao powder, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Mix until creamy.
- 4
If mixture is difficult to stir, microwave in 15 second increments until easier to combine.
- 5
Transfer to a parchment-lined 8 by 8 inch cake pan or 9 by 5 inch loaf pan.
- 6
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until completely set.
- 7
Slice and serve.
Tips
Use a loaf pan instead of cake pan for thicker fudge pieces with better structural integrity.
For chocolate-forward flavor, use premium cacao powder. Dutch-process creates milder taste; natural is more intense.
Line your pan with parchment extending past edges for easy removal and cutting.
Good to Know
Store in airtight container at room temperature up to 1 week, or refrigerated up to 3 weeks. Keep in cool, dry place to prevent melting.
Prepare up to 5 days ahead. Refrigerate until serving. Can be made and frozen in portions.
Serve chilled or at room temperature. Cut into 1-inch squares. Pairs well with coffee or as post-dinner treat.
Common Mistakes
Do not overheat in microwave to avoid separating cashew and cocoa butter fats.
Do not skip chilling time to avoid fudge remaining soft and difficult to slice.
Do not use sweetened cashew butter to avoid excessive sweetness and texture issues.
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Nut-Free Alternatives
General Alternatives
less volume needed
FAQ
Can I use regular sugar instead of sugar-free confectioners sugar?
Yes, but this will increase carb content significantly and change the low-carb profile. Use same quantity. For a higher-carb version, regular confectioners sugar works identically.
What if my fudge won't set firm after refrigerating?
Increase chilling time to 4 hours or freeze for 1 hour. If still soft, your cashew butter may have high oil content. Try reducing oil amount by 1 to 2 tablespoons next time.
How long can I keep this fudge and can I freeze it?
Refrigerate up to 3 weeks or freeze up to 3 months in airtight container. Thaw at room temperature 15 to 20 minutes before eating. Freezing is ideal for long-term storage.