INTRODUCTION
Easy Fudge is a simple sweet treat you can make in minutes. It uses just a few ingredients and little time. This fudge has a smooth, rich chocolate taste. You do not need to cook on the stove. You melt the chocolate and sweetened milk in the microwave and then chill. Many people like how fast it comes together and how good it tastes. If you want a fast dessert for a party or a small gift, this recipe works well. You can also try an easy hot fudge sauce recipe if you want warm chocolate to pour over ice cream.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love this recipe because it is quick and forgiving. It uses only a can of sweetened condensed milk and chocolate chips. You do not need special skills. Kids can help stir and press into the pan. The fudge sets firm after an hour in the fridge, so you can make it ahead for parties. You can keep it plain or add nuts for a small crunch. If you enjoy other simple fudge ideas, you might like this white chocolate cherry fudge recipe as a fun variation.
HOW TO MAKE Easy Fudge
This section shows the simple steps and tips to make smooth, creamy fudge. Read each step before you start. Use a clean microwave-safe bowl and a spatula that can reach the bottom of the bowl. If the chocolate is not fully melted after the first time in the microwave, heat it a bit more, then stir until smooth. Add vanilla at the end to lift the flavor. If you like nuts, fold them in before you pour the fudge into the pan. For best texture, chill the pan until the fudge is firm. During holidays, you can cut the fudge into small squares and wrap them for gifts. If you need a savory main to go with your sweet snack day, try a comforting dish like creamy cajun chicken pasta on another night.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
You need just a few items to make this fudge. Gather them before you start to keep the process smooth.
- Microwave-safe mixing bowl for melting the chocolate and milk.
- Rubber or silicone spatula for stirring the chocolate until smooth.
- 8×8 or 9×9 square baking pan for setting the fudge.
- Parchment paper to line the pan for easy removal.
- Measuring spoon for the vanilla.
- Knife for cutting the fudge.
If you want to make a jam topping or spread with your fudge later, you might enjoy a simple recipe like this delicious blueberry jam recipe to serve alongside other sweets.
Ingredients You’ll Need :
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups chocolate chips, semisweet
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- butter or cooking spray
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :
Get out and measure all of your ingredients.
Butter or spray a square 8×8 or 9×9 pan and line with parchment paper. This will make for easy removal of the set fudge. Set aside.
In a microwave safe bowl heat chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk on high for 1 minute and 30 seconds.
Remove from microwave. Let sit for 1 minute and then stir to combine.
If needed put back in the microwave and heat an additional 30 seconds.
Stir until chips are completely melted and chocolate is smooth.
Add vanilla extract and combine.
Add walnuts or pecans, if using.
Pour fudge into prepared pan.
Place pan in fridge for at least an hour to cool and set.
Make sure fudge has cooled completely. Remove from fridge and get ready to cut your fudge into pieces.Next, slice into squares.
Enjoy every bite!
HOW TO SERVE Easy Fudge
Serve this fudge at room temperature or chilled. Cut it into small squares for a party plate. You can place a few squares on a simple plate with a napkin. For a sweeter touch, dust a little cocoa powder or powdered sugar over the top. You can also stack the squares in small paper cups for easy handout. If you want to mix sweet and savory on a tray, add small pieces of cheese and crackers nearby. For a hearty plate plan, pair the fudge with a main dish like delicious glazed chicken meal prep on another evening when you want a full meal followed by a sweet bite.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Easy Fudge
Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If your home is warm, keep the fudge in the fridge to prevent it from getting soft. To store in the fridge, place parchment between layers so pieces do not stick together. For longer storage, freeze the fudge:
- Wrap pieces tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper.
- Place wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- To thaw, place the pieces in the fridge for a few hours or on the counter for 30 minutes before serving.
This method keeps the fudge fresh and lets you make it ahead when you have busy days.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Serve with a glass of cold milk for a classic pairing.
- Place small squares on a dessert tray with cookies and nuts.
- Offer alongside ice cream and warm sauce for a mixed dessert plate.
- Use a piece of fudge as a topping for warm brownies or a slice of cake.
- Wrap pieces in festive paper for small edible gifts.
Keep serving simple. A plain plate and a napkin make a neat presentation. Small touches like a dust of cocoa or a mint leaf can lift the look without fuss.
VARIATIONS
- Nutty Fudge: Stir in 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans before pouring into the pan.
- Mint Fudge: Add 1/2 tsp peppermint extract with the vanilla for a mint twist.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Melt 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter and drop by spoonfuls on top of the poured fudge. Swirl with a knife before it sets.
- Chocolate Mix: Use half semisweet and half milk chocolate chips for a milder taste.
- Salted Top: Sprinkle a small pinch of flaky sea salt on top before chilling for a sweet-salty bite.
These changes keep the method the same. Just add the extra item at the right time, usually before pouring or right after.
FAQs
Q: Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet?
A: Yes. Dark chocolate will make the fudge less sweet and more rich. Use the same amount and melt the same way.
Q: Do I need to add butter to the recipe?
A: No. The recipe does not need butter. The sweetened condensed milk and chocolate give the fudge a soft, creamy texture. You only use butter or cooking spray to grease the pan.
Q: How long will the fudge last in the fridge?
A: Fudge will last about 1 to 2 weeks in the fridge in an airtight container. It stays fresh longer if you wrap individual pieces.
Q: Can I skip the microwave and use a double boiler?
A: Yes. You can melt the chips and milk over low heat in a double boiler. Stir constantly until smooth to avoid burning.
Q: Why did my fudge turn grainy?
A: Grainy fudge can happen if the chocolate overheats or if you over-stir while it cools. Use short bursts in the microwave and stir until smooth. If you reheat and cool too many times, it can lose its shine and feel grainy.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Easy Fudge
Make the fudge up to 2 weeks before you need it if you keep it in the fridge. For gifting, freeze wrapped pieces and thaw a day before you give them. Label the container with the date so you can track freshness. If you need a last-minute present, cut squares and place them in small boxes or tins with a piece of parchment. The fudge also holds well on a dessert tray for a day if kept covered from air and heat.
Enjoy this simple, quick fudge for snacks, gifts, or a sweet end to any meal.
Easy Fudge
Ingredients
Method
- Get out and measure all of your ingredients.
- Butter or spray a square 8x8 or 9x9 pan and line with parchment paper. Set aside.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, heat chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk on high for 1 minute and 30 seconds.
- Remove from microwave, let sit for 1 minute, and then stir to combine.
- If needed, put back in the microwave and heat an additional 30 seconds.
- Stir until the chips are completely melted and the chocolate is smooth.
- Add vanilla extract and combine.
- Fold in nuts, if using.
- Pour fudge into the prepared pan.
- Place pan in fridge for at least an hour to cool and set.
- Once cooled, remove from fridge and cut into squares.
- Enjoy every bite!