Looking for a delicious and indulgent treat that you can make in no time? Whether you’re in a rush or just craving something sweet, Paula Deen’s famous 5-Minute Fudge recipe is the perfect go-to dessert. It’s creamy, chocolatey, and packed with flavor, and the best part? You only need a few basic ingredients to whip it up!

This quick fudge recipe is a hit for any occasion. Be it a holiday gathering, a family celebration, or just a casual snack to satisfy your sweet tooth, this fudge comes together fast, without compromising on rich chocolate flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 5 minutes, this fudge is perfect for when you’re short on time but want a sweet treat that doesn’t skimp on taste.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely already have most of these ingredients on hand—no complicated shopping lists here!
• Rich and Creamy: This fudge has the perfect balance of sweetness and texture, making it irresistibly good.

Let’s dive into the details of how you can make this scrumptious dessert at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 2/3 cup evaporated milk
• 1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

This simple ingredient list is the backbone of the recipe. You can find evaporated milk and chocolate chips at most grocery stores, making this fudge a hassle-free dessert to whip up on a whim.

Instructions:

Step 1: In a medium saucepan, combine the evaporated milk, granulated sugar, and salt. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking or burning.

Step 2: Once the mixture reaches a full boil, continue stirring and let it cook for 4-5 minutes. This step ensures that the sugar fully dissolves, creating the perfect fudge texture.

Step 3: Remove the saucepan from heat. Immediately stir in the semisweet chocolate chips, unsalted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.

Step 4: If desired, fold in the chopped nuts for a bit of crunch. Pecans or walnuts work wonderfully in this fudge recipe, but feel free to use whatever nuts you prefer.

Step 5: Pour the fudge mixture into a greased 8×8-inch pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.

Step 6: Let the fudge set at room temperature for about an hour, or speed up the process by placing it in the refrigerator. Once firm, cut into squares and enjoy!

Tips for Making Perfect 5-Minute Fudge

• Don’t Overcook the Mixture: While it’s important to bring the sugar and milk to a boil, make sure you don’t cook it for too long, or the fudge might become too hard.
• Use Good Quality Chocolate: Since chocolate is the star ingredient, opting for high-quality semisweet chocolate chips will elevate the flavor of your fudge.
• Add Mix-ins: While chopped nuts are a popular addition, you can get creative and add mini marshmallows, crushed candy canes, or even dried fruit for a fun twist.

Storing Your Fudge

The beauty of this fudge recipe is that it stores really well, making it ideal for preparing ahead of time. To store:

• At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
• In the Refrigerator: This fudge can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks. Just make sure it’s tightly covered to prevent it from drying out.
• Freezing: If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze the fudge. Simply wrap it in wax paper and place it in a zip-top freezer bag. It will keep for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let the fudge thaw at room temperature before serving.

Why Fudge Makes the Perfect Gift

One of the best things about fudge is how well it lends itself to gift-giving. Whether it’s the holidays, a birthday, or just a kind gesture for a friend, homemade fudge is always a welcome treat. You can package it in a decorative tin or wrap individual pieces in wax paper with a bow for a thoughtful, delicious gift that everyone will appreciate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use sweetened condensed milk instead of evaporated milk?

No, for this particular recipe, evaporated milk is crucial. Sweetened condensed milk is much thicker and sweeter, which would drastically change the texture and taste of the fudge. Stick with evaporated milk to ensure you get the right consistency.

How long does it take for fudge to set?

The fudge will start to firm up fairly quickly at room temperature, but it’s best to give it at least an hour before cutting into it. If you’re in a hurry, popping it in the fridge for 30 minutes can speed up the process.

Can I add other flavors to this fudge?

Absolutely! You can customize your fudge by adding different extracts like peppermint or almond. You can also stir in different toppings such as sprinkles, crushed cookies, or caramel swirls to make it even more decadent.

A Few More Fudge Variations You Can Try:

If you love the ease of this 5-minute fudge, here are a few other variations you can explore:

1. Peanut Butter Fudge: Replace 1/2 cup of the chocolate chips with creamy peanut butter for a delicious chocolate-peanut butter combination.
2. Mint Chocolate Fudge: Add a teaspoon of mint extract and sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for a festive fudge perfect for the holidays.
3. S’mores Fudge: Mix in mini marshmallows, graham cracker crumbs, and chocolate chips for a fudge that captures all the flavors of everyone’s favorite campfire treat.

Conclusion

Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge is the perfect dessert for chocolate lovers who are short on time but want something rich and indulgent. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a mouthwatering treat that will impress your family and friends. Plus, with endless variations and flavor possibilities, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

So next time you’re in need of a quick and delicious dessert, give this 5-minute fudge a try. You won’t be disappointed!