If you are craving a rich, creamy, and utterly irresistible treat, this Easy Chocolate Fudge Recipe is exactly what you need. It captures the essence of classic homemade fudge with just a handful of simple ingredients, blending the deep, luscious flavor of semisweet chocolate with the smooth sweetness of condensed milk. Whether you’re a beginner or a fudge aficionado, this recipe makes it simple to create that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture that everyone will adore. It’s the ultimate way to indulge your chocolate cravings and share a little happiness with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Easy Chocolate Fudge Recipe, you only need a few classic ingredients that each play a vital role in creating that perfect fudge experience. From creamy butter to flavorful vanilla, every component contributes to luscious flavor, smooth texture, or that gorgeous shiny finish.
- 16 oz semisweet chocolate bars: Choose high-quality bars for the best smoothness and depth of chocolate flavor.
- 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk: Adds sweetness and creaminess that gives fudge its distinct texture.
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter: Cut into pieces and at room temperature, it enriches the fudge and ensures silky smoothness.
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the chocolate notes beautifully.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic touch to round out the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Easy Chocolate Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Chocolate
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil, making sure to leave enough overhang so you can easily lift out the fudge later. Coarsely chopping your chocolate bars now helps them melt evenly and quickly, setting you up for a smooth cooking process ahead.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients to Melt
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan or a double boiler, place the chopped chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Keeping water away is crucial here because any steam or drops can seize the chocolate, turning your mixture grainy. The goal is slow, gentle melting to maintain that silky texture.
Step 3: Melt Slowly Over Low Heat
Use the smallest burner setting for low and slow melting, stirring constantly with a spatula. Be sure to scrape the bottom to prevent overheating. If the mixture looks too thick or clumpy, briefly remove it from heat to cool a bit before stirring again. Once you achieve that glossy, lump-free fudge base, immediately remove it from the heat.
Step 4: Add Flavorings
Gently mix in the salt and vanilla extract until the fudge is perfectly smooth and combined. If you want to add any extras like nuts or dried fruit, fold them in now, but avoid over-mixing; too much stirring after adding vanilla can change the texture, resulting in graininess you don’t want.
Step 5: Spread and Let Set
Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared pan and smooth out the surface with your spatula. Let it rest at room temperature for three to four hours, or even overnight, until it’s fully set and easy to cut. Avoid refrigerating to speed up setting — chilling can cause the fudge to lose that ideal creamy texture.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Use the overhanging parchment or foil to lift the fudge from the pan. For clean cuts, run your knife under hot water, dry it fully, and then slice straight down in one motion. This technique keeps the edges neat and the fudge looking as delicious as it tastes.
How to Serve Easy Chocolate Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle just a pinch of sea salt or finely chopped nuts on top before setting to add a lovely crunch and highlight flavors. You could also dust with cocoa powder or drizzle with white chocolate for an eye-catching contrast and extra indulgence.
Side Dishes
Fudge is a fantastic pairing with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream, balancing rich sweetness with freshness. For an adult twist, try serving it alongside a cup of strong coffee or a glass of robust red wine to deepen the flavor experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut into bite-size pieces and arrange on a pretty platter for parties. Wrap individual squares in festive wax paper or place them in miniature gift boxes for thoughtful homemade presents that everyone will treasure.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Easy Chocolate Fudge Recipe leftovers keep wonderfully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. This way, you can enjoy that soft, velvety texture without worrying about it drying out or getting sticky.
Freezing
If you want to keep your fudge fresh for longer, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving to bring back that perfect creamy consistency.
Reheating
Fudge is best enjoyed as is, but if you prefer it slightly softer, let it sit at room temperature for a bit. Avoid microwaving as it can cause the texture to become grainy or melt unevenly.
FAQs
Can I use chocolate chips instead of chocolate bars?
Yes, chocolate chips will work in this Easy Chocolate Fudge Recipe, but be sure to use good-quality chips without added stabilizers that could affect the texture.
Why does my fudge come out grainy sometimes?
Graininess usually happens if the fudge mixture is overheated or stirred too much after adding vanilla, so keep the heat very low and mix gently after flavorings.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even crushed candy can be folded in after adding the vanilla, giving your fudge exciting textures and flavors.
Is it necessary to use sweetened condensed milk?
Yes, sweetened condensed milk provides essential sweetness and creaminess, which is what helps this Easy Chocolate Fudge Recipe achieve its smooth texture.
How long will fudge keep at room temperature?
Stored in an airtight container, your fudge can stay fresh and delicious for about two weeks at room temperature.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chocolate Fudge Recipe truly is a game-changer if you want a delicious homemade treat without fuss. It’s so simple to whip up and rewards you with rich, creamy bites of chocolate perfection every time. Go ahead and give it a try—you might just find your new favorite dessert to share and enjoy with everyone you love!
Print
Easy Chocolate Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 25 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Chocolate Fudge recipe delivers rich, creamy, and melt-in-your-mouth homemade fudge using simple ingredients like semisweet chocolate and sweetened condensed milk. Perfect for chocolate lovers, the fudge is gently cooked on low heat for a glossy finish and sets overnight for the ideal creamy texture. No candy thermometer needed—just patience and gentle stirring.
Ingredients
Fudge Ingredients
- 16 oz semisweet chocolate bars, coarsely chopped (high-quality chocolate recommended)
- 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, cut into pieces, room temperature
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift out the fudge later. Coarsely chop the chocolate bars and set aside.
- Melt fudge ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan or double boiler, combine the chopped chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Be careful to avoid any water contact to prevent the chocolate from seizing.
- Cook over low heat: Place the pan over the smallest burner on very low heat. Stir constantly with a spatula, scraping the bottom of the pan to avoid overheating. If the mixture becomes thick, clumpy, or sticks, remove from heat briefly for about 30 seconds, then continue stirring. Once smooth and glossy without lumps, immediately remove from heat.
- Add flavorings: Stir in the salt and vanilla extract gently until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. If desired, fold in any mix-ins now, but avoid over-mixing to prevent a grainy texture.
- Transfer to pan: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan. Smooth the surface with a spatula. Let it rest at room temperature for 3–4 hours or overnight until completely set. Do not refrigerate as chilling can cause graininess.
- Slice and serve: Use the parchment or foil overhang to lift the fudge from the pan. Cut into 25 squares using a sharp knife. For clean cuts, run the knife under hot water, dry thoroughly, and slice straight down in one smooth motion without sawing.
Notes
- Using high-quality semisweet chocolate bars results in the best flavor and texture.
- Do not add water to the chocolate mixture to avoid seizing.
- Always melt the fudge slowly on very low heat while stirring constantly for smoothness.
- Resist the urge to refrigerate the fudge; it sets best at room temperature and refrigeration can cause graininess.
- Ensure your knife is hot and dry for clean slicing.
- You can customize your fudge by adding nuts, dried fruits, or other mix-ins after adding vanilla.
