5-Minute Fudge

If you’re looking for a foolproof, quick dessert that tastes like it came straight from grandma’s kitchen, this 5-Minute Fudge recipe is the perfect choice. With minimal ingredients, a fast cooking process, and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, it’s a dessert that works for holidays, special gatherings, or even last-minute sweet cravings.

This recipe doesn’t require candy thermometers or advanced skills—just a saucepan and a few pantry staples. Whether you’re hosting a party, making a homemade gift, or simply craving a piece of chocolate fudge, this recipe guarantees success every single time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable pantry ingredients.
• Versatile: Easy to customize with nuts, dried fruit, or flavor extracts.
• Perfect for Gifting: Makes a thoughtful homemade holiday treat.
• Kid-Friendly: No complicated steps, so kids can help too.

Ingredients Breakdown

To make this fudge, you’ll need a few basic ingredients that work together to create the creamy, chocolatey texture everyone loves.

• White Sugar (1 ⅔ cups): Provides sweetness and structure to the fudge.
• Evaporated Milk (⅔ cup): Adds richness and helps dissolve sugar evenly.
• Unsalted Butter (1 tablespoon): Enhances flavor and creates a smooth texture.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and deepens the chocolate flavor.
• Milk Chocolate Chips (6 oz): The star ingredient that gives the fudge its decadent chocolate taste.
• Marshmallows (16 large): Melt into the mixture for a soft, creamy consistency.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
• Chopped Nuts (1 cup): Adds crunch and texture—walnuts, pecans, or almonds work beautifully.

Tips and Tricks

• Use fresh marshmallows—older marshmallows don’t melt as smoothly.
• Line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal and clean slicing.
• Stir constantly to avoid sugar crystallization.
• Cut the fudge with a sharp, warmed knife for neat squares.
• For extra creaminess, add 2 tablespoons of peanut butter or Nutella.

Variations and Customizations

This 5-Minute Fudge is extremely versatile. Here are some fun ways to switch it up:

• Peanut Butter Fudge: Swap half the chocolate chips for peanut butter chips.
• Mint Chocolate Fudge: Add ½ teaspoon peppermint extract and sprinkle crushed candy canes on top.
• White Chocolate Cranberry Fudge: Replace chocolate chips with white chocolate and stir in dried cranberries.
• Rocky Road Fudge: Mix in mini marshmallows, chopped nuts, and bits of graham crackers.
• Espresso Fudge: Add 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder for a mocha flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

Fudge is delicious on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with other treats:

• With Coffee or Hot Chocolate: A small square of fudge with a warm drink is the ultimate comfort.
• Holiday Dessert Platters: Pair with cookies, brownies, and truffles for a festive spread.
• Ice Cream Topping: Crumble over vanilla ice cream for a decadent sundae.
• Gift Baskets: Package in small boxes with ribbon for an elegant homemade gift.

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Refrigerator: Keeps well for 2 weeks when chilled.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Popular Questions

1. Can I make this fudge without marshmallows?
Yes! Substitute 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk for marshmallows.

2. Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate?
Absolutely. Dark chocolate creates a richer, less sweet fudge.

3. How do I prevent fudge from becoming grainy?
Make sure to stir constantly and avoid overcooking the sugar mixture.

4. Can I double this recipe?
Yes, simply use a larger pan and double all ingredients. Cooking time may increase slightly.