Easy Chocolate Fudge

Chocolate Fudge

Description

This smooth, decadent chocolate fudge melts in your mouth with every bite. Made with just a few simple ingredients, it’s a perfect treat for holidays, parties, or gifting. The combination of rich chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, and a hint of vanilla creates a luxurious candy that’s irresistibly good.

Ingredients

• 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (about 18 oz)

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (plus more for greasing)

• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

• 1/4 tsp salt

• Optional toppings: chopped nuts, sea salt, crushed candy canes

Instructions

1. Prepare the pan:

   • Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

   • Lightly butter the lining.

2. Melt the chocolate mixture:

   • In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter.

   • Stir constantly until the mixture is completely melted and smooth (about 5–7 minutes).

3. Add flavoring:

   • Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.

4. Pour and set:

   • Pour the fudge mixture evenly into the prepared pan.

   • Smooth the top with a spatula and add optional toppings if desired.

5. Chill:

   • Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.

6. Cut and serve:

   • Lift the fudge out using the parchment overhang.

   • Cut into small squares with a sharp knife.

Equipment

• 8×8-inch square baking pan

• Medium saucepan

• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula

• Parchment paper or aluminum foil

• Sharp knife

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 7 minutes

Chill Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 17 minutes

Serving Size: Makes about 36 small squares

Chocolate Fudge

This smooth, decadent chocolate fudge melts in your mouth with every bite. Made with just a few simple ingredients, it’s a perfect treat for holidays, parties, or gifting. The combination of rich chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, and a hint of vanilla creates a luxurious candy that’s irresistibly good.

Print Recipe

Prep Time:10 minutes mins

Cook Time:7 minutes mins

Total Time:2 hours hrs 17 minutes mins

Equipment

• 8x8-inch square baking pan
• Medium saucepan
• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil
• Sharp knife

Ingredients

• 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips about 18 oz
• 1 can 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter plus more for greasing
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Optional toppings: chopped nuts sea salt, crushed candy canes

Instructions

• Prepare the pan:
• Line an 8x8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
• Lightly butter the lining.
• Melt the chocolate mixture:
• In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter.
• Stir constantly until the mixture is completely melted and smooth (about 5–7 minutes).
• Add flavoring:
• Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
• Pour and set:
• Pour the fudge mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
• Smooth the top with a spatula and add optional toppings if desired.
• Chill:
• Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
• Cut and serve:
• Lift the fudge out using the parchment overhang.
• Cut into small squares with a sharp knife.

Servings: 36 small squares

10 Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate?
   Yes, but the fudge will be sweeter and softer. You may want to reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk slightly.

2. Can I make this fudge without condensed milk?
   No, condensed milk is essential for the creamy texture in this recipe.

3. Can I add mix-ins?
   Absolutely! Nuts, crushed cookies, dried fruit, or candy pieces work well.

4. Can I make this fudge dairy-free?
   Yes, use dairy-free chocolate chips, coconut condensed milk, and plant-based butter.

5. Why is my fudge grainy?
   This can happen if the chocolate is overheated or not stirred enough. Keep the heat low and stir constantly.

6. How do I make the fudge firmer?
   Use less butter or add an extra 1/2 cup chocolate chips.

7. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, use a 9×13-inch pan instead of an 8×8-inch pan and slightly increase the chilling time.

8. Do I have to refrigerate fudge?
   Not necessarily it can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for a short time, but refrigeration extends freshness.

9. Can I freeze fudge?
   Yes, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, place in a freezer bag, and store for up to 3 months.

10. How do I cut fudge neatly?
    Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water, wiping the blade between cuts.

How To Store Chocolate Fudge

• At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 1 week. Layer pieces with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

• In the Refrigerator: Place in an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Keeps for up to 3 weeks.

• In the Freezer: Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, place in a freezer-safe bag, and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving to prevent condensation.