This orange chocolate fudge is a delicious no-bake treat that tastes remarkably like a Terry’s Chocolate Orange, but made with wholesome ingredients. It’s simple to prepare and naturally dairy-free, vegan (when using maple syrup), paleo, and gluten-free.
I used to get a dark chocolate orange in my stocking every Christmas, and it was always one of my favourite holiday treats. After removing dairy from my diet for health reasons, I missed that flavor, so I created a healthier, dairy-free version. This no-bake orange chocolate fudge captures that familiar chocolate-and-orange taste, has a melt-in-your-mouth texture, and is made with better-for-you ingredients.
Recipe highlights:
- This fudge is very easy to make and requires only a few minutes of hands-on time.
- It’s refined sugar free, dairy-free, paleo, gluten-free and vegan (use maple syrup to keep it vegan) and is made without condensed milk or chocolate chips.
- It’s perfect for Christmas or any occasion and makes a thoughtful handmade gift.
Ingredient notes:
See the recipe card below for exact measurements.
- Raw cashews: use raw cashews (not roasted) for the creamiest texture.
- Coconut butter: sometimes called coconut manna; it helps create a smooth, fudgy texture when combined with cashews.
- Cocoa powder: cacao powder can be substituted if you prefer.
- Orange juice and zest: these naturally sweeten and deliver the bright orange flavour.
- Coconut oil: helps the fudge set in the fridge or freezer and gives it a pleasant, melt-in-your-mouth feel.
- Honey or maple syrup: either will sweeten the fudge without refined sugar; use maple syrup to keep the recipe vegan.
Recipe variations:
- For a stronger orange flavour, swap the vanilla extract for a small amount of orange extract.
How to make orange chocolate fudge:
Step 1
Place all ingredients into a food processor or high-powered blender.
Step 2
Blend until the mixture is completely smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed. Blend to the consistency you prefer.
Step 3
Line an 8″ x 8″ pan with parchment paper (or use a silicone pan). Pour the mixture into the pan and press it down evenly with a spatula, spoon, or the back of a knife.
Step 4
Place the pan in the freezer for about 60 minutes, or until the fudge is firm.
Step 5
Remove the pan, slice the fudge into squares, and enjoy.
Top tips:
- For easier spreading: wet the spoon or knife you’ll use to smooth the mixture in the pan.
- To cut clean slices: heat a knife under hot water, dry it, then slice—the warm blade makes cutting smoother.
- Storage: keep the fudge in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer. It will keep up to two weeks in the fridge and up to three months in the freezer.
Orange chocolate fudge FAQs:
No. This recipe is not keto or low-carb. It’s sweetened with fruit and maple syrup or honey and has approximately 7 grams of total carbohydrates (6 grams net carbs) per serving.
Yes. The ingredients used make this recipe paleo-friendly.
No. The Whole30 program does not allow desserts or treats.
Other dessert recipes you will love:
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Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Banana Bread with Almond Flour
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5 Ingredient Chocolate Avocado Mousse (healthy & vegan)
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Chocolate Raspberry Cups
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Gluten-Free Turtle Cookie Bars
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Recipe
Orange Chocolate Fudge
Equipment
- food processor or high-powered blender
- 8 inch square baking dish
Ingredients
- 2 cups raw cashews
- 1/4 cup coconut butter, melted (or coconut manna)
- 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/3 cup maple syrup (or honey if not vegan)
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder (or cacao powder)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch sea salt
Instructions
- Place all ingredients into your food processor or blender.
- Blend until completely smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Line an 8″ x 8″ pan with parchment paper (or use a silicone pan) and pour the mixture in. Spread evenly and press down to form a level layer.
- Freeze the pan for about 60 minutes, or until firm.
- Cut into pieces of your desired size and serve.
Notes
- If you don’t have a food processor, a high-powered blender such as a Vitamix will work.
- Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on the exact ingredients used.
- Warming the knife briefly under hot water and drying it before slicing makes cutting easier and neater.
Nutrition
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Carbohydrates: 7 g
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Protein: 2 g
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Fat: 10 g