Easy Fudge Recipe

Easy Fudge Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Homemade Fudge

Nothing compares to an easy fudge recipe for easy, decadent sweets. Rich, creamy, and endlessly customizable, fudge is a timeless treat that requires minimal ingredients and little effort. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday celebration, a party, or simply as a sweet snack, this guide will walk you through how to make perfect fudge every time.

In this article, you’ll discover the classic easy fudge recipe, a few flavor variations, pro tips for achieving the best texture, and answers to common questions about making fudge at home.

Why This Easy Fudge Recipe Works

Many traditional fudge recipes involve candy thermometers, precise temperature control, and constant stirring. This easy fudge recipe simplifies the process by using condensed milk and chocolate, making it virtually foolproof. The result? Smooth, melt-in-your-mouth fudge that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

The secret to its success lies in:

• Using quality chocolate for depth of flavor
• Sweetened condensed milk for creaminess
• Minimal cooking steps to avoid graininess

Ingredients for Easy Fudge Recipe

Before you start, gather the following ingredients:

Base Recipe

• 2 cups (340g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 can (14 oz / 397g) sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare Your Pan

To make it easier to remove, leave some overhanging parchment paper when lining an 8 × 8-inch square baking dish.

Step 2 – Melt the Chocolate

Put the butter, chocolate chips, and sweetened condensed milk in a medium saucepan over low heat. Continue stirring until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.

Step 3 – Add Flavor

Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt until well incorporated.

Step 4 – Pour and Set

Using a spatula, evenly distribute the fudge mixture after pouring it into the prepared pan.

Step 5 – Chill

Put the fudge in the fridge for at least two to three hours, or until it solidifies.

Step 6 – Cut and Serve

Using the overhanging parchment paper, remove the set fudge from the pan. Cut into small squares with a sharp knife.

Tips for Perfect Fudge

• Make use of premium chocolate: The chocolate you select has a big impact on the flavor of your fudge.
• Steer clear of intense heat: Chocolate can seize if it melts too quickly.
• Quickly add toppings: Before chilling, push sprinkles or almonds into the fudge.
• Keep portions small: Fudge is rich, so smaller servings are ideal.

Flavor Variations for Easy Fudge Recipe

The beauty of this easy fudge recipe is that you can adapt it to suit your taste. Here are some fun variations:

1. Peanut Butter Swirl Fudge

• Prepare the base fudge mixture.
• Warm ½ cup of peanut butter and swirl it into the fudge before chilling.

2. Rocky Road Fudge

• Stir in 1 cup mini marshmallows and ½ cup chopped walnuts before pouring the mixture into the pan.

3. White Chocolate Cranberry Fudge

• Swap the semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate.
• For a festive addition, stir in ½ cup dried cranberries.

4. Mint Chocolate Fudge

• Add 1 tsp peppermint extract instead of vanilla.
• Top with crushed peppermint candies before chilling.

5. Cookies and Cream Fudge

• Use white chocolate chips as the base.
• Stir in 1 cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies.

Storage and Shelf Life

To keep your fudge fresh:

• Keep for up to a week at room temperature in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 weeks for extended storage.
• Wrapped tightly in parchment paper and stored in a freezer-safe bag, freeze for up to three months.

When serving frozen fudge, let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes for the best texture.

Nutritional Information (per piece, approx. based on 24 servings)

• Calories: 140
• Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Sugar: 16g
• Protein: 2g

Note: Depending on the particular materials used, values may change.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overheating the chocolate: This causes a grainy texture.
2. Skipping the salt: Even a pinch enhances flavor.
3. Cutting too early: Warm fudge won’t hold its shape—wait until it’s fully set.
4. Not lining the pan: Makes removing the fudge messy and difficult.

More Easy Fudge Recipes to Try

If you enjoyed this basic, easy fudge recipe, here are two more no-fail recipes worth trying:

Nutty Caramel Fudge

• 2 cups milk chocolate chips
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• ½ cup caramel sauce

Combine the ingredients, whisk in the vanilla, pour into the pan, and let it cool.

Mocha Espresso Fudge

• 2 cups dark chocolate chips
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tbsp instant espresso powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Melt ingredients together, stir in vanilla, pour into the pan, and chill. Perfect for coffee lovers.

Conclusion

This easy fudge recipe is the ultimate go-to dessert when you need something delicious, quick, and customizable. With minimal effort and just a handful of ingredients, you can create a rich, indulgent treat that’s perfect for gifting, entertaining, or simply enjoying at home. The versatility of fudge means you can experiment with countless flavors, from classic chocolate to festive combinations like peppermint or cranberry.

Once you master the base recipe, the possibilities are endless. So grab your ingredients, melt some chocolate, and enjoy the sweet satisfaction of homemade fudge.

FAQs About Easy Fudge Recipe

1. Can I make this easy fudge recipe without condensed milk?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the method. Traditional fudge without condensed milk involves sugar, butter, and milk boiled to a specific temperature, which is less beginner-friendly.

2. How can I make my fudge creamier?

Using high-quality chocolate and ensuring the chocolate is melted slowly over low heat will produce creamier results.

3. Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Absolutely. Dark chocolate will give the fudge a richer, slightly bitter taste. You may want to add a bit more sugar to balance the flavor.

4. Why did my fudge turn out dry or crumbly?

This usually happens if the mixture is overheated or stirred too little while melting.

5. Can I double this recipe?

Yes. Simply use a larger pan and ensure the mixture is spread evenly before chilling.