Name: Irresistible Fudge Rounds: Chewy Cookies with Creamy Filling
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 9 min
Total time: 69 min
Ingredients: 10 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (softened at room temperature); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 Large Egg (at room temperature); 1 tablespoon Light Corn Syrup (can be substituted with golden syrup); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (pure recommended); 1 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour (measure accurately); 6 tablespoons Unsweetened Natural Cocoa Powder (sifted); 1 teaspoon Cornstarch; 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda (check for freshness); 1/4 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt (adjust to taste); 1 cup Milk Chocolate Chips (dark chocolate can be swapped); 1 stick Unsalted Butter (softened at room temperature); 2 tablespoons Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (sifted); 1 1/2 cups Powdered Sugar (sift for smoother texture); 2 tablespoons Warm Water (add gradually); 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

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As I sifted through the pantry for a little inspiration, a simple thought struck me: who doesn’t love a little nostalgic sweetness? That’s when I decided to whip up these Homemade Fudge Rounds. These chewy, fudgy cookies not only bring back memories of childhood but absolutely eclipse those packaged versions we all grew up with. With a rich buttercream filling that’s both luxurious and easy to make, this recipe is perfect for when you want to treat yourself or impress your loved ones. Plus, it comes together quickly and can easily become a cherished staple in your dessert repertoire. So, are you ready to indulge in some homemade goodness that will have your taste buds dancing in delight? Let’s dive into the delightful world of fudge-filled dreaminess!

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Why are Fudge Rounds so Special?

Nostalgic Delight: Fudge Rounds evoke warm memories from childhood, making them the perfect treat for today’s generation and beyond.
Ultimate Chewy Texture: These cookies boast a chewy, fudgy dreaminess that simply melts in your mouth, pairing beautifully with the creamy filling.
Quick and Easy: Even novice bakers can achieve bakery-quality results with this straightforward recipe, ensuring success every time.
Versatile Variations: Want to switch it up? Try using dark cocoa or adding mint for a refreshing twist, showcasing your creativity!
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether it’s a family gathering or an afternoon snack, these Fudge Rounds are sure to wow everyone, just like a delightful dessert should.

Fudge Rounds Ingredients

• For the Cookies:

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; use at room temperature for easy creaming.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with texture; no suitable substitutes noted.
Large Egg – Binds ingredients together; use at room temperature for optimal mixing.
Light Corn Syrup – Prevents sugar recrystallization, contributing to a chewy texture; can be substituted with golden syrup.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; pure extract recommended for purity.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure; measure accurately to avoid dense cookies.
Unsweetened Natural Cocoa Powder – Provides the chocolate flavor; ensure it’s sifted for even mixing.
Cornstarch – Tenderizes the cookie texture; no substitutions mentioned.
Baking Soda – Helps cookies rise; check for freshness before use.
Fine Sea Salt – Balances sweetness; regular salt can be used but adjust to taste.
Milk Chocolate Chips – Adds pockets of sweetness and chocolate; dark chocolate can be swapped for a richer flavor.

• For the Buttercream Filling:

Unsalted Butter – For creaminess; let it soften at room temperature for best results.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Provides chocolate flavor in buttercream; use high-quality for the richest taste.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetness and thickness for filling; sift for a smoother texture.
Warm Water – Helps achieve the desired consistency; add gradually to prevent thinning too much.
Vanilla Extract – Flavor enhancer; a splash can elevate the overall taste.

Remember, these Fudge Rounds are all about layering flavors and textures that will take you on a delightful trip down memory lane!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Fudge Rounds

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While waiting for the oven to reach temperature, take two baking sheets and line them with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking. This small preparation step ensures that your Fudge Rounds will bake evenly and come out perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 10 tablespoons of soft unsalted butter with 3/4 cup of granulated sugar. Beat the mixture until it’s fluffy and light, which should take about 2-3 minutes using a hand mixer or a stand mixer. Add in 1 large egg, 1 tablespoon of light corn syrup, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated and smooth.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 6 tablespoons of sifted unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of fine sea salt. Gradually combine this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this helps maintain the soft texture of your Fudge Rounds.

Step 4: Scoop the Cookies
Using a 1½-tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out the dough and place the balls approximately 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. This spacing allows the cookies to spread without merging into one another during baking. Feel free to press down gently on each ball to create a slight flattening for even cooking.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in your preheated oven and bake the Fudge Rounds for 8-9 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the edges should appear set while the centers remain slightly soft. Once done, allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Make the Buttercream Filling
While the cookies cool, prepare the buttercream filling. In a stand mixer, combine 1 stick of softened unsalted butter with 2 tablespoons of sifted unsweetened cocoa powder and 1 1/2 cups of powdered sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, with a texture resembling whipped cream. Add in 2 tablespoons of warm water and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and spreadable.

Step 7: Assemble Your Fudge Rounds
Once the cookies are completely cooled, take one cookie and spread a generous amount of the chocolate buttercream filling on the flat side. Gently press another cookie on top to form a sandwich. Repeat this process until all cookies are filled, creating a delightful stack of Homemade Fudge Rounds that are ready to be savored.

Step 8: Store or Serve
For the best flavor and texture, chill your assembled Fudge Rounds in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps the filling set. If you’re not serving them right away, store these delicious treats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 1 month for a future indulgence.

Expert Tips for Fudge Rounds

Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is at cool room temperature to achieve a light and fluffy dough, essential for perfect Fudge Rounds.
Accurate Measurements: Measure your flour precisely; too much can lead to dense cookies that won’t spread as desired.
Chill for Chewy Texture: For ultra-chewy Fudge Rounds, chill the assembled cookies in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving.
Fresh Ingredients: Always check the freshness of baking soda, as stale ingredients can lead to disappointing results in your baked goods.
Use Quality Cocoa: Opt for high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for richer chocolate flavor in both cookies and buttercream filling.

What to Serve with Homemade Fudge Rounds

Enhance your dessert experience with sides and treats that balance the rich flavor of your fudge-filled cookies.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, coolness of vanilla ice cream perfectly complements the fudgy richness, creating a delightful contrast in texture. Serve a scoop alongside each Fudge Round for an indulgent treat.
Fresh Berries: Bright, juicy strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing burst of flavor, cutting through the sweetness. Their tartness brings a delightful balance, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Coffee or Espresso: A cup of rich coffee or espresso pairs beautifully, enhancing the chocolate flavors while providing a cozy, warm element to your dessert. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a slice of nostalgia while savoring the moment.
Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate your Fudge Rounds by drizzling some melted chocolate on top. The extra layer of chocolate enhances sweetness and adds a gourmet touch to each cookie.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a fluffy texture to your fudge rounds, creating a luscious mouthfeel. Top the cookies or serve a dollop on the side for an irresistible addition.
Nuts or Toffee Bits: A sprinkle of chopped pecans or toffee bits adds delightful crunch to your dessert, enhancing the overall texture of your Fudge Rounds. These unexpected elements will leave your guests raving about your dessert skills.

Fudge Rounds Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to tweak this recipe and create your own special version of Fudge Rounds that caters to your taste buds!

Dark Chocolate: Use dark cocoa powder instead of unsweetened for an intensified chocolate experience. It’s a rich upgrade that chocolate lovers will adore!
Nutty Crunch: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the cookie dough for an added crunch that beautifully contrasts the soft texture. The result is a lovely surprise with every bite.
Peppermint Twist: Enhance the buttercream filling by adding 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract or mixing in some crushed peppermint candies. This refreshing twist is perfect for the holidays!
Nut-Free: Replace butter with a dairy-free option like coconut oil and use nut-free chocolate chips for a nut-free treat that anyone can enjoy. Perfect for sharing at school events or parties.
Sugar-Free: Swap out granulated sugar with a sugar alternative like erythritol, adjusting amounts to taste. This option allows for a sweet indulgence without the sugar!
Vegan: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) instead of a regular egg, and dairy-free butter for a vegan-friendly version that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Coconut Flavor: Mix in shredded coconut to the cookie dough or sprinkle on top of the filling for a tropical twist. The coconut adds a nice chewiness that complements the fudge!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cookie dough for a surprising hint of heat that pairs well with the chocolate. This bold choice will surprise and delight adventurous eaters!

As you venture into crafting your unique Fudge Rounds, don’t forget to check out our recipes for Chocolate Chip Cookies or No-Bake Cookies for even more delightful options! Enjoy the journey of discovering flavors that bring you joy!

Make Ahead Options

These Homemade Fudge Rounds are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing quality! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing it and refrigerating it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and bake as directed. Additionally, you can bake the cookies and fill them with the buttercream up to 3 days beforehand; just store the assembled cookies in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh and fudgy. Chilling the Fudge Rounds for about 30 minutes before serving enhances their texture, making them even more delightful to eat!

How to Store and Freeze Fudge Rounds

Fridge: Store assembled Fudge Rounds in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain their chewy texture and fresh flavor.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the Fudge Rounds in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.

Reheating: When ready to indulge, allow frozen cookies to thaw at room temperature or gently warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to restore that delightful softness.

Wrapping: If storing individually, wrap each Fudge Round in plastic wrap before placing them in the container to prevent freezer burn and maintain flavor.

Fudge Rounds Recipe FAQs

What type of butter is best for Fudge Rounds?
Unsalted butter is recommended for Fudge Rounds as it provides richness and moisture. Be sure to use it at room temperature for easier creaming with the sugar, which results in a better texture for your cookies.

How should I store my Fudge Rounds, and how long do they last?
Assembled Fudge Rounds should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This helps maintain their chewy texture and fresh flavor. If you’re looking for longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 1 month in a freezer-safe container.

Can I freeze Fudge Rounds? If so, how?
Absolutely! For freezing, first arrange the Fudge Rounds in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once they are frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag. They will keep well for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to regain that delightful softness.

What should I do if my Fudge Rounds turn out too dense?
If your Fudge Rounds are denser than expected, it might be due to too much flour in the dough. Make sure to measure the flour accurately and avoid overmixing, which can also create tough cookies. If they spread less than you’d like, pressing them down slightly before baking can help achieve the desired shape and texture.

Are there any substitute ingredients for allergies?
If you have dietary restrictions, there are a few options. You can substitute light corn syrup with golden syrup. For a dairy-free version, use vegan butter in both the cookie dough and the filling. Also, ensure that chocolate used is dairy-free if you’re avoiding milk products. Always check the labels to confirm there are no allergens.

What if I want a different flavor for my Fudge Rounds?
Great question! You can switch it up by using dark cocoa powder for a more intense chocolate flavor or add mint extract for a refreshing twist. You could even mix in crushed peppermint candies in the dough for a festive flair, making your Fudge Rounds uniquely yours!