Home > Recipes > Desserts > Candy Recipes > Easy Chocolate Fudge
by Michelle
December 10, 2023
Jump to Recipe
4.84 (61 ratings)This quick and easy super creamy chocolate fudge recipe is made with chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, salt, and vanilla. Prepped in 15 minutes, this is a seriously simple must-have that’s perfect for cookie trays and holiday gifts!
Seeing fudge always conjurs up two distinct memories:
The first of beach trips when I was a kid, the intoxicating smell wafting from the small fudge shops that are a beach town staple. And the second of Christmas cookie trays! Growing up, I can’t remember seeing a cookie tray without little squares of chocolate fudge sitting inmini paper muffin cupsscattered throughout.
While it’s forever a crowd favorite, it has a reputation for being fussy and difficult to make. I love to go the quick and easy route when it comes to fudge recipes, using sweetened condensed milk to get that wonderfully creamy texture.
This is a simple base recipe that is my go-to when I want a quick holiday treat and its possibilities are endless with flavor and add-in ideas!
The Ingredients
Only four ingredients! Are you ready?
- SemisweetChocolate Chips– I love theGhiradelli brand, but you can use any brand, whatever is available or your favorite. You can also use dark chocolate, or use a combination of dark chocolate chips, semi-sweet chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, and even white chocolate chips.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk– One can, which is the “secret” ingredient to these incredibly easy fudge recipe. It ensures a smooth and creamy texture.
- Vanilla Extract+ Pinch ofSalt– For a wonderful extra balance of flavor.
- Chopped Nuts (Optional)– You can add these if you want or omit them completely. Walnuts are a traditional fudge add-in, but you can use any type of nuts – chopped pecans, almonds, pistachios, cashews, or peanuts.
This list is also short and sweet! No special tools, no candy thermometer, just grab a few basic items and you’re all set…
- 8-inch square baking pan; any will do, but a higher edge is great.
- Silicone spatulaorwooden spoon
- Saucepan(3 to 4-quart) with tall sides
How to Make This Fudge
Seriously, this fudge recipe could not be better for first-timers, or those looking for a fast version of their favorite candy! It requires just a couple of quick steps and you’ll be prepped in 15 minutes; here’s what you do:
- Line asquare baking panwith aluminum foil or parchment paper.
- Melt chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and salt over low heat in a saucepan. It only takes a few minutes for it all to come together in one melted, smooth mixture.
- Off heat, stir in the vanilla extract and chopped nuts, if you’re using them.
- Spread the mixture in the prepared pan in a nice even layer.
- Chill the fudge for at least 2 hours to ensure it’s firm and has set up completely.
That’s it! Your rich, creamy fudge is done… simply use the foil or parchment to lift it out of the baking dish and onto a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut it into small squares and enjoy!
Recipe Tips
- To make this fudge in the microwave, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and salt in a medium glass bowl and heat for 3 minutes, stirring halfway through, then proceed with the rest of the recipe as written.
- To make an even creamier fudge, melt 2 cups of miniature marshmallowsalong with the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and salt, then proceed with the rest of the recipe as written.
- Substitute peanut butter chipsfor the chopped nuts.
- Try different flavor variationsby adding different extracts (peppermint would be so festive!).
- Usemini cookie cuttersto cut the fudge into festive shapes instead of squares.
- If yourfudge is crumbly,it was overcooked or overmixed. If it isn’t setting, it wasn’t hot enough when it cooked. In both instances, you can try melting it back down and trying again. If it has a distinctive burnt flavor or smell – you will need to start with a new batch.
Storage and Packaging Instructions
- Storage Instructions:The fudge can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
- Freezing Instructions:The fudge can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 6 months. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
- Gifting:To package for gifts, place some pieces of fudge in aclear treat bagand tie it with a pretty ribbon.
Ready for More Fudge Recipes?
- Easy Peanut Butter Fudge
- Maple Walnut Fudge
- Eggnog Fudge
- Snickerdoodle Fudge
- Pumpkin Fudge
If you make this chocolate fudge recipe and love it, please stop back and give it a 5-star rating – it helps others find the recipe!❤️️
Easy Chocolate Fudge Recipe
Yield: 64 pieces
Prep Time: 10 minutes mins
Cook Time: 5 minutes mins
Total Time: 15 minutes mins
This quick and easy fudge recipe is made with chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Options are included for using marshmallows and the microwave! Perfect for the holidays.
4.84 (61 ratings)
Print Pin Rate
Ingredients
- 3 cups (510 g) semisweet chocolate chips
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk, 1 can
- Pinch salt
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup (57 g) chopped nuts, optional
Instructions
Line an 8-inch square baking pan with foil.
Place the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk and salt in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
Remove from the heat and immediately stir in the vanilla and nuts (if using). Spread evenly in the prepared pan.
Refrigerate for 2 hours, or until firm. Cut into squares and serve, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- Equipment: 8-inch square pan /Silicone spatula or wooden spoon / Saucepan
- To make this fudge in the microwave, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and salt in a medium glass bowl and heat for 3 minutes, stirring halfway through, then proceed with the rest of the recipe as written.
- To make an even creamier fudge, melt 2 cups of miniature marshmallows along with the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and salt, then proceed with the rest of the recipe as written.
- Substitute peanut butter chips for the chopped nuts.
- Try different flavor variationsby adding different extracts (peppermint would be so festive!).
- Usemini cookie cuttersto cut the fudge into festive shapes instead of squares.
- If yourfudge is crumbly,it was overcooked or overmixed. If it isn’t setting, it wasn’t hot enough when it cooked. In both instances, you can try melting it back down and trying again. If it has a distinctive burnt flavor or smell – you will need to start with a new batch.
- Storage Instructions:The fudge can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
- Freezing Instructions:The fudge can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 6 months. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
- Gifting:To package for gifts, place some pieces of fudge in aclear treat bagand tie it with a pretty ribbon.
- Recipe from Eagle Brand
Calories: 75kcal, Carbohydrates: 7g, Protein: 1g, Fat: 4g, Saturated Fat: 2g, Cholesterol: 2mg, Sodium: 8mg, Potassium: 74mg, Sugar: 6g, Vitamin A: 20IU, Vitamin C: 0.2mg, Calcium: 24mg, Iron: 0.6mg
Did you make this recipe?
Leave a review below, then snap a picture and tag @thebrowneyedbaker on Instagram so I can see it!
Author: Michelle
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Photography byLauren Grant.
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47 Comments on “Easy Chocolate Fudge”
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Canopas — Reply
I’m a huge chocolate lover, and this recipe is a game-changer! The fudge looks incredibly smooth and decadent. Kudos on breaking it down into easy steps. I’ll be making a batch (or two) this weekend!
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Julia Guthrie — Reply
I love it! Thank you!
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Lisa M. — Reply
Ty Ty Ty !!! MY bestest friend from high-school use to skip school just to hang out and listen to MTV and make this fudge recipe for a snack. What memories we made!
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James hill — Reply
It don’t tell you how much of each ingredients you need. Please let me know. I bought 2 bags of chips and 2 cans of sweet milk. I have vanilla and salt but it don’t tell you how much
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Trish — Reply
Click on “Jump to recipe”. It takes you straight to the recipe with measurements.
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Char King'Irwin — Reply
The easiest and best chocolate fudge ever! Its smooth and creamy until I added walnuts😉.
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Fran Russell — Reply
Fantastic! Smooth, creamy, fast and impressive! I did add mini marshmallows, and was afraid it would softten if not kept refrigerated, but it stayed firm all through holiday cookie exchange and received oodles of compliments. Adding to my holiday repetoire for gifts and family enjoyment. Thank you! :-)
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Chris sims — Reply
Excellent,creamy, chocolatey fudge.
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Sally K — Reply
This one was not a keeper.
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david — Reply
This recipe was SO easy and the resulting fudge was delicious!
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BG — Reply
This recipe was SO easy and the resulting fudge was delicious! Perfect consistency.
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Nancy — Reply
yummy fudge,…
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Princess — Reply
The hardest part is sharing ! (my cat pressed send on my keyboard!)
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savannah — Reply
this comment wins! i laughed out loud in algebra class O_o
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Princess Sturgeon — Reply
I have made this fudge recipe for years and it is as perfectly delicious as it is easy!
the hardest part is
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Dustin — Reply
making homemade chocolates is great, i really like them the taste is great and the way is very simple thanks for writing this article.
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Nora — Reply
My mom used to make multiple batches of this: milk chocolate chips, bittersweet chocolate chips, and butterscotch chips (my favorite!)
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Judy — Reply
I agree that this fudge recipe is creamy & delicious!!! I make it every Christmas season ! I spoon it in a circle & decorate it like a wreath ! I put cherries & walnuts on top & refrigerate it.
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Peggy — Reply
Looks delicious! Do you have any tips for cutting the fudge so the sides are sharp and crumble free?
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Cara — Reply
After fully letting mine cool for the two hours in the fridge, I didn’t have any crumbly edges. I did use the 2 cups of marshmallows as described as an option below the main recipe. But, my squares were perfectly smooth. Perhaps the marshmallows had something to do with that? Or maybe yours wasn’t fully set when you cut it.
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Grace — Reply
I’ve recently bought silicone molds for flavored ice cubes in an unsuccessful attempt to get my kids to drink more water,. Do you think I could use the molds with this recipe? If not, I guess it’s square fudge and unicorns & dinosaur ice cubes for me! :)
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Ryan Gianos — Reply
Hello,
Love that recipe been making this for awhile and lots of people love it.
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Susanna — Reply
Made it for gifts to my daughters’ friends, the family loved the leftovers from the spoon and pan! Very easy! Thanks for posting!
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Arika Williams — Reply
I love it. Very simple and delicious. I used marshmallow fluff with mine.. GREAT!!
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Joanne — Reply
How do I fine grinch Christmas cookies
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gmail login mail — Reply
The fudge sound so yum! Thank you for sharing the recipe! I can’t wait to try it!
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Michael Simmons — Reply
I had not made fudge in years. Found this simple and quick recipe. My children and wife loved it! Making another batch today. Might try milk chocolate chips in place of semisweet for next batch!
Happy Merry Christmas and New Year!
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Cindy — Reply
Thank you for this easy recipe! After a not-so-easy and unsuccessful recipe attempt for fudge last year, I’m really looking forward to this one. Just printed it out. Happy holidays!
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kitty — Reply
This is the fudge I have been looking for. I love the dark chocolate flavor of it. I made a few small adjustments, melted the butter first then added the milk and chocolate and then added about 3 heaping tablespoons full of creamy peanut butter while the chocolate was melting. I chose to do it in a pot on the stove. Tastes amazing!
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Marti — Reply
This is the fugde my mom has made every year since I can remember. I love the creamy texture of it. This year I made “real” fudge out the Cook’s Country mag – I’m less excited about than I thought I would be. Maybe I’ll try again but the texture is not nearly a creamy and it was waaayyyy more work.
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Maytha — Reply
Anxious to try this. I do have a favorite recipe that makes about 5 pounds of fudge that I have been using since late 1960’s. I will try to remember to post for you within the next couple of days.
Love the photos of your family and furry members.
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gary baca — Reply
Will be waiting for your fudge recipe my dad also had a secret one to and died with it and made a rocky road
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annie — Reply
This is an easy recipe that even I, who has never made fudge, will attempt to make this for Christmas. Can I add a dash of peppermint for flavor, will it blend well in the recipe? Thank you.
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Melissa R — Reply
Hi Annie, you could probably use peppermint or mint extract in place of the vanilla extract – I would substitute one for the other and not use both.
Caveat, I’ve never substituted the vanilla in the fudge I make, but I don’t see why it wouldn’t work. -
Melissa R — Reply
Hi Annie, you could probably sub the vanilla out for peppermint or mint extract instead. I would only use one, not both extracts. Caveat, I have never subbed out the vanilla in the fudge recipe I make – although one year my mom and I forgot to add it! Fortunately, the lack of vanilla didn’t seem to affect the end product at all.
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Sarah — Reply
Can I substitute butterscotch chips for the chocolate? If so, would you alter the recipe in any other way?
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Lisa — Reply
Seriously? That is all there is to it? Why havent’ I seen this recipe before!
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Lisa — Reply
Oohh I am making this for my bro-in-law for father’s day. He loves fudge! I laugh because he is so disciplined about it. He can make a nice sized piece last for a week!
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Elyse — Reply
Sorry that I’ve been an absent commenter; I just finished up my law school exams and am finally getting around to my google reader. This treat looks fabulous! Can I admit to you that I like fudge made with sweetened condensed milk better than fudge made the “slow” way??
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kitchenbelle — Reply
Wow, this looks delicious. Great photos!
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stephchows — Reply
I always make fudge for people at christmas time, but I totally have the same memories as you down the jersey shore :)
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Katie — Reply
OH YUM!! That looks fantastic!!
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Audrey — Reply
The “honest-to-goodness-from-scratch” fudge is so good and not as hard as many people think, once you know how to do it. That’s how I’ve been doing it since I learned when I was a kid, I’ve never used sweetened condensed milk, chocolate bars, marshmallows or marshmallow fluff in my fudge, it’s just not the same as from scratch! Can’t wait to see when you try it from scratch, hope it goes well.
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gary baca — Reply
Then post your from scratch fudge how to make it
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Joelen — Reply
Looks great Chelle!
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Cookin' Canuck — Reply
My friend’s family always made the most delicious fudge at Christmastime, but were rather secretive about their recipe. Your photo looks just like their fudge, so I’m going to give this a try. Thank you!
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Eliana — Reply
Fudge is one of those no fuss treats that is a definite crowd pleaser. I’ve never made it but this recipe seems so easy. thanks so much for posting.
