
If you ever wished your childhood birthday party could be a bite-sized treat this bubblegum fudge captures all that whimsy in a single square. It is smooth creamy and bright pink with a classic bubblegum flavor that brings out smiles at first nibble. When I want to surprise kids or deliver something extra fun this is my go-to recipe.
This fudge became an instant favorite at my niece’s birthday the first time I made it and now I get special requests every holiday. The only tricky part is keeping enough for myself because it disappears fast.
Ingredients
- Bright white candy melts: because they create a smooth firm creamy base with a clean color and subtle sweetness Look for brands with minimal chalky aftertaste
- Sweetened condensed milk: for unbeatable creamy texture and just the right sweetness Use a trusted brand for best results
- Unsalted butter: which adds richness and helps everything blend Choose a good quality real butter
- Vanilla extract: for warm depth and to round out the bubblegum flavor Always go for pure vanilla not imitation
- Bubble gum flavoring: the star of the show If you can find LorAnn or a specialty baking shop theirs are especially bold
- Pink food gel color: to get that classic shade Gel holds color better than liquid and you only need a few drops
- Miniature marshmallows: because they create that fluffy soft pocket in the fudge
- Assorted pink sprinkles: for sparkle texture and a touch of fun Pick crunchy nonpareils or pastel quins as you like
Instructions
- Prep the pan:
- Line a nine inch square baking pan with parchment paper to make removal much easier later
- Melt the base:
- Combine the candy melts sweetened condensed milk and unsalted butter in a large microwave safe bowl Microwave for forty seconds at a time stirring well between bursts until the mixture is nearly smooth and just a tiny bit lumpy This prevents scorching
- Stir in flavors and color:
- Quickly add the vanilla extract bubble gum flavoring and pink food gel to the warm candy mixture Use a silicone spatula to stir thoroughly until the entire mix is evenly pink and aromatic
- Layer the fudge:
- Pour about one third of the pink fudge mixture into your prepared pan and gently spread it to the corners Let it settle slightly
- Add marshmallows:
- Fold the miniature marshmallows into the remaining pink fudge and stir so each puff gets a good coating This gives you fun texture surprises in every square
- Finish assembly:
- Spoon the marshmallow fudge on top of the base layer and smooth it with an offset spatula Make sure it reaches into every corner for even thickness
- Top and chill:
- Scatter your chosen pink sprinkles across the top pressing down lightly Chill in the refrigerator for two to three hours until very firm
- Cut and serve:
- Lift the fudge from the pan using the parchment handles Slice into sixteen even squares and get ready for squeals of delight

The magic in this fudge is definitely the bubble gum flavoring Every time I open that bottle I am transported to the corner store buying gum with my pocket change and those cheerful memories always make this recipe special for my family
Storage Tips
Keep fudge in an airtight container separated with parchment layers so pieces do not stick together Store in the fridge up to one week for best texture You can also freeze squares for up to one month but let them sit out to soften a little before eating
Ingredient Substitutions
White chocolate chips can stand in for candy melts in a pinch though the texture will be slightly softer If you are out of bubble gum flavor skip it and use extra vanilla for a simple vanilla fudge Color can be swapped for any pastel you love
Serving Suggestions
Tray it with other pink and pastel treats for a baby shower dessert buffet Cut into tiny cubes for party favor bags Top each square with a whimsical paper straw or edible glitter for birthdays
Cultural Context
Bubblegum is a nostalgic flavor that first exploded in popularity with 1920s penny candies Over the decades its scent and color have appeared in everything from ice cream to lip balm This fudge is an homage to that classic kid favorite
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap the sprinkle color to match any holiday or event Use heart sprinkles for Valentines or snowflake shapes for winter No marshmallows needed in summer if you want an extra clean slice
Success Stories
Last Easter I sent a box of this pretty fudge to a friend with young twins and she tells me they now ask for pink fudge every time she makes treats The fudge made our family reunion spread look like a retro candy shop and it disappeared before the sun set
Freezer Meal Conversion
Bubblegum fudge freezes beautifully Lay out squares on a tray to freeze solid then transfer to a bag or container Layer with parchment to keep pieces separate Defrost as many as you need at room temperature

However you serve it this fudge is pure joy in every bite and always the first to vanish from any tray Make it once and you will be hooked on the happy bubblegum nostalgia forever
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of candy melts should I use?
Use bright white candy melts for best color and creamy texture, ensuring a vivid pink hue with the gel color.
- → Can I replace bubble gum flavoring with another extract?
Yes, try vanilla or almond extract for a different taste, though bubble gum flavoring gives a classic playful touch.
- → How do I achieve an even pink color?
Mix the pink food gel thoroughly into the melted base before adding marshmallows, ensuring uniform color throughout.
- → How should I store leftover fudge?
Store squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness and texture.
- → Are there alternatives to miniature marshmallows?
You may substitute with larger marshmallows chopped into small pieces or try adding crispy rice cereal for texture.
- → What’s the best way to cut the fudge?
Use a sharp knife and clean between cuts for neat squares; letting the fudge chill thoroughly helps with slicing.