Easy Fudge Recipe - Two Peas & Their Pod

This Easy Fudge Recipe is the perfect treat for chocolate lovers! We make it every holiday season, but it is good anytime of the year. I am always up for a piece of rich, creamy, and decadent fudge!

I love this fudge recipe because it is basically foolproof, it turns out perfect every single time. You don’t need a candy thermometer and it comes together in no time. You do need to chill it so it can set up, but I promise it is worth the wait!

Fudge makes a wonderful holiday gift for family, friends, and neighbors. It is also fun to set out at holiday parties. It is just one of those recipes that you HAVE to make at Christmas time. Our family looks forward to it every year.

You can never go wrong with chocolate, especially in fudge form. A piece of soft, creamy, rich fudge is always hits the spot!

Chocolate Fudge Ingredients

This fudge recipe is made with basic ingredients, which you probably already have in your pantry!

• Chocolate chips– make sure you use GOOD chocolate chips because the brand of chocolate will affect the overall taste and texture of the fudge. My favorite brand is Guittard. I use semi-sweet chocolate, but dark chocolate would be good too and not as sweet.
• Butter– butter adds flavor and smoothness and inhibits large crystal formation.
• Sweetened condensed milk– Make sure you use sweetened condensed milk and not evaporated milk, they are not the same. Also, don’t use fat free or low fat sweetened condensed milk. Go for the good stuff so the fudge is creamy, rich, and divine!
• Flaky sea salt– a love a little salty kick!
• Vanilla extract- just a splash!
• Nuts– nuts are optional, but add great flavor and texture. I like to use toasted pecans or walnuts.

How to Make Fudge

Are you ready to make the best fudge recipe? I promise, it’s easy!

• Line a 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving about a 1-inch overhang for easy removal. Gently spray with nonstick cooking spray and dab away any excess oil with a paper towel. Set aside.
• In a large, heatproof bowl, combine the chocolate chips and butter. Set the bowl over a pan of simmering water over medium-low heat, making sure the water never touches the bottom of the bowl. Use a spatula to stir until completely melted and combined.
• Add the sweetened condensed milk, sea salt, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined and smooth. Add the nuts, if using, and stir again.
• Pour into the prepared pan and spread the top with a spatula until smooth.
• Refrigerate until set, about 2 to 3 hours.
• Carefully lift the fudge out of the pan and cut into small squares. Eat and enjoy!

Variations

If you want to change up the flavor of classic fudge, here are some ideas!

• Add ½ to 1 cup of dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dried cherries.
• Replace the walnuts with chopped peanuts, almonds, pecans, pistachios, or macadamia nuts.
• Stir in 1 cup of mini marshmallows.
• Add a ½ teaspoon peppermint extract and top with crushed candy canes for peppermint fudge.
• Stir in chopped Oreos and gently press chopped Oreos on top of the fudge before chilling.
• Top the fudge with chopped up toffee or mini M&M’s before you put the fudge in the fridge.
• Stir in coconut or toasted coconut.

How to Store

Store fudge in an airtight container, in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Make sure the container is sealed tightly so the fudge doesn’t dry out.

You can store fudge on the counter for up to 1 week, but if your house is warm, the fudge might get too soft.

I recommend storing it in the fridge and pulling it out a little before serving time so it can come to room temperature. Although, I love cold fudge, right from the fridge:) YUM!

How to Freeze Fudge

Good news, fudge freezes really well. First, wrap it in waxed paper and then, wrap it in aluminum foil to make sure it will stay fresh. Store the wrapped fudge in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

To thaw frozen fudge, remove it from the freezer and leave it wrapped. You can thaw it on the counter or put it in the refrigerator to thaw slowly. Thawing in the refrigerator will prevent condensation from forming on the fudge.

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