Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge

Introduction

Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge is truly a game-changer for anyone with a sweet tooth! I’ve tried a lot of fudge recipes over the years, but this one is by far the easiest and quickest. The rich, creamy texture of the fudge combined with the semi-sweet chocolate and the marshmallows creates a perfect balance of sweetness and indulgence. My family loves it, and I can’t count how many times this recipe has saved me when I needed a last-minute dessert or treat for a special occasion. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, holiday, or just a sweet snack, this fudge is sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 2/3 cup evaporated milk
• 1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 16 large marshmallows (or 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Before you begin, measure out all the ingredients to make the cooking process smoother and faster. If you’re using large marshmallows, cut them into smaller pieces to help them melt quickly once added to the mixture.

Step 2: Heat the Milk and Sugar
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the evaporated milk, granulated sugar, and salt. Stir them well to combine. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly to prevent burning. Once the sugar has dissolved, allow the mixture to come to a boil. Be sure to keep an eye on it and stir frequently.

Step 3: Add the Marshmallows and Chocolate Chips
Once the mixture is boiling, add the marshmallows and chocolate chips. Stir the mixture constantly as the marshmallows and chocolate chips melt into the hot milk mixture. This process should take just a few minutes, and the fudge mixture will begin to smooth out and become rich and glossy. Keep stirring until everything is fully melted and combined.

Step 4: Add Vanilla Extract and Nuts (Optional)
After the mixture is smooth and fully melted, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, which adds a lovely depth of flavor. If you like a bit of crunch, you can also stir in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the mixture at this point.

Step 5: Pour the Fudge into a Pan
Next, pour the hot fudge mixture into a greased or lined 8×8-inch baking dish. Use a spatula to spread the fudge evenly, ensuring it reaches all corners of the pan.

Step 6: Let the Fudge Set
Allow the fudge to cool to room temperature, which will allow it to firm up. If you’re in a hurry, place the pan in the refrigerator for about 1 hour to speed up the process. Once the fudge has set and is firm to the touch, remove it from the pan and cut it into squares.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 square (based on 16 servings)
• Calories: 150 kcal
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 45mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 18g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient choices.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Set Time: 1 hour (optional for faster setting)

How to Serve

• As a Snack: Cut the fudge into squares and enjoy it as a sweet treat during the day.
• For Special Occasions: Serve it as a dessert at gatherings or family events. It pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea.
• Gift It: Wrap the fudge in wax paper or cellophane and give it as a homemade gift for birthdays or holidays.
• With Ice Cream: For an extra indulgent dessert, top a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream with chunks of this fudge.
• For Parties: Serve it at your next party alongside other desserts like brownies or cookies.

Additional Tips

1. Measure Accurately: Make sure to measure your ingredients correctly, especially the evaporated milk and sugar, to ensure the fudge sets properly.
2. Use Quality Chocolate Chips: The chocolate chips are the star of this recipe, so using high-quality semi-sweet chips will really elevate the flavor of your fudge.
3. Chill for Quick Setting: If you need the fudge to set faster, pop it in the fridge for about 1 hour. The fudge will harden quickly, allowing you to enjoy it sooner.
4. Customize with Nuts: If you love a crunchy texture in your fudge, consider adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for an added layer of flavor.
5. Avoid Overheating: Stir constantly as you cook the mixture to prevent the sugar from burning or the milk from scalding. Be sure to remove the fudge from heat as soon as it’s smooth.

Recipe Variations

1. Peanut Butter Fudge: Add 1/2 cup of peanut butter to the hot mixture along with the marshmallows and chocolate chips for a peanut butter twist on the classic recipe.
2. Mint Chocolate Fudge: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of mint extract along with the vanilla extract for a minty fudge flavor.
3. Caramel Fudge: Drizzle caramel sauce into the fudge mixture before it sets for a sweet, gooey treat.
4. Coconut Fudge: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the fudge for a tropical flavor that complements the chocolate.
5. Vegan Fudge: Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of evaporated milk and replace the marshmallows with a vegan alternative to make this fudge vegan-friendly.

Serving Suggestions

• For a Special Treat: Serve alongside your favorite holiday cookies or homemade brownies for a dessert platter everyone will love.
• With Hot Beverages: This fudge pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, making it a cozy treat for cold days.
• As a Movie Snack: Break the fudge into pieces and enjoy it while watching a movie or during a family game night.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Be sure to keep it away from heat sources to avoid it melting.
• Freezing: This fudge freezes wonderfully! To freeze, cut it into pieces, place them in a freezer-safe container, and store for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• Refrigeration: If you live in a particularly warm climate or want to keep the fudge extra firm, you can refrigerate it for longer shelf life.

FAQ

1. Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?

• Yes! You can use milk chocolate chips, but the fudge will be sweeter and less rich than with semi-sweet chocolate.

1. What if I don’t have evaporated milk?

• You can substitute regular milk or heavy cream in place of evaporated milk, but the texture might be slightly different.

1. Can I add more marshmallows?

• Yes, feel free to add more marshmallows, but be careful not to add too many, as it could affect the texture of the fudge.

1. What kind of nuts should I use?

• Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds work best, but feel free to use your favorite nuts or leave them out entirely for a smooth texture.

1. Can I make this fudge ahead of time?

• Yes! This fudge is great for make-ahead recipes and can be prepared days in advance.

1. Can I add flavors to the fudge?

• Yes, adding extracts like almond, hazelnut, or even espresso powder can give your fudge a different twist.

1. How long does it take for the fudge to set?

• The fudge will set in about an hour in the fridge. At room temperature, it may take a little longer.

1. Can I use a double boiler to melt the chocolate?

• Yes, you can use a double boiler to melt the chocolate, but be sure to stir the mixture constantly to avoid burning.

1. How do I cut the fudge cleanly?

• To get clean cuts, let the fudge cool completely, then use a sharp knife. If it’s too soft, refrigerate it briefly to firm it up before cutting.

1. Can I use a different type of milk?
   • You can use whole milk or even almond milk, but the texture and consistency may vary slightly depending on the milk you choose.

Conclusion

Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge is a deliciously simple recipe that’s perfect for when you want a quick and indulgent treat. With just a few ingredients and a couple of minutes of work, you’ll have a rich, creamy fudge that rivals any store-bought version. Whether you enjoy it on its own or mix it up with fun variations, this fudge will surely become a family favorite. It’s the perfect dessert for any occasion—easy, satisfying, and utterly delicious!

Print