Craving a rich, creamy treat but short on time? This 5-minute chocolate fudge is your answer. Made with simple pantry staples like evaporated milk, mini marshmallows, and chocolate chips, this old-fashioned fudge recipe delivers decadent flavor in no time.
Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight cravings, this is the best quick fudge recipe you’ll ever make—and it doesn’t even require a candy thermometer!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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Only 7 ingredients
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Done in 5 minutes of cooking time
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No thermometer or fancy tools needed
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Perfect for gifting, snacking, or holiday platters
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Budget-friendly and kid-approved
Ingredients Breakdown:
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Evaporated Milk (⅔ cup): Adds creaminess and helps dissolve the sugar without making the mixture too watery.
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Granulated Sugar (1⅔ cups): Sweetens and gives structure to the fudge as it sets.
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Salt (½ tsp): Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
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Mini Marshmallows (1½ cups): Melt into the mixture to help create a smooth, velvety texture.
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Semisweet Chocolate Chips (1½ cups): The main source of that rich, chocolatey flavor—melty and indulgent.
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Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Adds warmth and enhances the chocolate flavor.
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Chopped Pecans (1 cup): A crunchy, nutty addition that adds texture and a toasty flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
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Don’t overcook – Boiling the mixture too long can cause grainy fudge. 4–5 minutes is perfect.
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Swap the nuts – Try walnuts, almonds, or leave them out for nut-free fudge.
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For a richer twist – Add 1 tablespoon of butter when mixing in chocolate chips.
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Holiday idea: Drizzle with melted white chocolate and crushed peppermint for festive flair!
Variations and Customizations:
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Peanut Butter Fudge: Replace chocolate chips with peanut butter chips
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Rocky Road: Add mini marshmallows and crushed almonds
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Mocha Fudge: Stir in 1 tsp instant coffee with the chocolate
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Sea Salt Topping: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before it sets
Storage Instructions:
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Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week
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Refrigerator: Lasts up to 2 weeks, covered
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Freezer: Freeze squares in layers separated by wax paper for up to 3 months
Popular Questions:
Can I make this fudge in the microwave?
Yes! Combine ingredients (except chocolate and pecans) in a large microwave-safe bowl, heat until boiling, then stir in chocolate and nuts.
What makes this a “no-fail” fudge recipe?
Using marshmallows as a stabilizer prevents sugar crystallization, making it smooth every time.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a 9×13-inch pan if doubling, and increase the cooling time accordingly.
