Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge

Introduction

When I first tried Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge, I was immediately impressed by how simple and quick it was to prepare. This fudge quickly became a family favorite, and I’ve since made it numerous times for gatherings, holiday celebrations, and even as a sweet snack. The rich, creamy texture and the deep, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate flavor are guaranteed to please anyone with a sweet tooth. It’s the perfect recipe when you want to whip up a delightful treat without spending hours in the kitchen. My family absolutely loves it, and the best part is that it doesn’t require any complicated ingredients or steps. It’s a no-fuss fudge that tastes like it took much longer to make!

Ingredients

• 2/3 cup evaporated milk
• 1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to ensure easy removal of the fudge once set.
2. Cook the Base Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the evaporated milk, granulated sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a rolling boil. Once boiling, continue to cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. The mixture should thicken slightly during this time.
3. Melt the Chocolate: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stir vigorously until the chocolate chips are completely melted and the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.
4. Pour and Set: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure a smooth, uniform layer.
5. Let It Set: Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature until firm, or place it in the refrigerator to speed up the setting process (about 1-2 hours).
6. Slice and Serve: Once the fudge has set and is firm to the touch, cut it into small squares and serve. Enjoy the rich, creamy chocolate goodness!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 16
• Calories per Serving: 150 kcal
• Total Time: 10 minutes (5 minutes prep, 5 minutes cooking)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

How to Serve

• As a Snack: Serve as a sweet treat after dinner or as a mid-day snack.
• Gift It: Package in a cute gift box or tin and give as a homemade gift for holidays, birthdays, or special occasions.
• With Coffee or Tea: Pair with a hot beverage to complement the sweetness of the fudge.
• In Desserts: Use as a topping for ice cream, cakes, or cupcakes for an extra layer of indulgence.
• For a Crowd: Make a double batch and serve at parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.

Additional Tips

1. Use High-Quality Chocolate Chips: The flavor of the fudge depends on the quality of the chocolate, so choose semi-sweet chips from a trusted brand.
2. Don’t Overcook the Mixture: Make sure to boil the base mixture for no more than 5 minutes. Overcooking may result in a grainy texture.
3. Chill for Faster Results: If you’re in a hurry, refrigerate the fudge for 1-2 hours to set it quickly, rather than leaving it at room temperature.
4. Customize the Recipe: You can add mix-ins like chopped nuts, dried fruit, or marshmallows for extra flavor and texture.
5. Keep Stirring: Stir the chocolate mixture continuously after removing it from the heat to prevent it from seizing or burning.

Recipe Variations

• Nutty Fudge: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the fudge mixture for a crunchy texture.
• Peanut Butter Fudge: Stir in 1/2 cup of peanut butter when you melt the chocolate chips to create a delicious peanut butter-chocolate combination.
• Mint Chocolate Fudge: Add 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the fudge mixture for a minty twist.
• White Chocolate Fudge: Substitute the semi-sweet chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a lighter, sweeter version of this fudge.
• Salted Caramel Fudge: Drizzle caramel sauce over the fudge after pouring it into the pan and sprinkle a little sea salt on top before chilling.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair With Fresh Berries: Fresh raspberries or strawberries make a great contrast to the richness of the fudge.
• Serve With a Scoop of Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream is the perfect complement to the dense, creamy fudge.
• Add to a Dessert Platter: Cut the fudge into small squares and arrange it with other treats like cookies, brownies, and truffles for a decadent dessert spread.
• With Hot Chocolate: For a super indulgent treat, pair with a cup of homemade or store-bought hot chocolate.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Be sure to keep it in a cool, dry place to maintain its texture and flavor.
• Freezing: If you want to keep the fudge for longer, it can be frozen. Wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container before freezing. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. To serve, simply thaw the fudge at room temperature for a few hours before cutting and enjoying.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips? Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate chips, but it will make the fudge sweeter and less rich.
2. How do I know when the fudge is done setting? The fudge is ready when it is firm to the touch and no longer sticky. You can test it by gently pressing on the surface.
3. Can I make this recipe in a larger or smaller pan? Yes, but keep in mind that the thickness of the fudge will change. A smaller pan will result in thicker fudge, while a larger pan will yield thinner pieces.
4. Can I use non-dairy milk in this recipe? Yes, you can use coconut milk or almond milk as a substitute for evaporated milk, but the texture and flavor may slightly differ.
5. Why is my fudge too soft? If the fudge is too soft, it may not have boiled long enough. Ensure that the base mixture reaches a rolling boil and thickens during the cooking process.
6. Can I add other flavorings, like vanilla? Yes, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
7. How long does the fudge take to set in the fridge? It will take about 1-2 hours in the fridge to set completely.
8. Can I add sprinkles or decorations to the top of the fudge? Absolutely! After pouring the fudge into the pan, you can sprinkle candy sprinkles, sea salt, or crushed candy on top for a festive touch.
9. Can I make this fudge in advance? Yes, this fudge can be made ahead of time and stored for up to a week at room temperature or longer in the fridge or freezer.
10. How can I make the fudge more decadent? Add a layer of caramel or peanut butter on top before setting or drizzle extra chocolate over the finished fudge.

Conclusion

Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge is the ultimate quick and easy treat for anyone craving a rich, chocolatey indulgence. With just four simple ingredients and a few minutes of your time, you can make a batch of delicious fudge that’s sure to please family and friends. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just as an everyday snack, this fudge is always a hit. And with its versatility, you can customize it to suit any flavor preference. Try it out today, and I’m sure it will become one of your go-to desserts as well!

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