There’s something incredibly satisfying about making a rich, creamy chocolate fudge in just minutes. This 5-Minute Chocolate Fudge recipe is perfect for those moments when you crave a sweet treat but don’t have a lot of time to spare. Whether it’s a sudden craving, a last-minute gift, or a quick dessert for a gathering, this recipe has you covered. I remember the first time I tried this fudge at a family holiday party; it was love at first bite. The smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture combined with the rich chocolate flavor was simply irresistible. Since then, it has become a staple in my dessert repertoire.
Ingredients
1 2/3 cups white sugar
2/3 cup evaporated milk
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 (6 ounce) package milk chocolate chips
16 large marshmallows
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup chopped nuts
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Gather and Measure: Before starting, measure out all the ingredients. This helps ensure that the process goes smoothly since the fudge comes together quickly.
Cook the Base
Combine Sugar, Milk, Butter, and Salt: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine 1 2/3 cups of white sugar, 2/3 cup of evaporated milk, 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
Bring to a Boil: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. This ensures that the sugar dissolves completely and prevents the mixture from burning.
Boil for 5 Minutes: Once boiling, continue to cook for 5 minutes, stirring constantly. This step is crucial as it helps achieve the right consistency for the fudge. Make sure to keep stirring to avoid scorching.
Add the Chocolate and Marshmallows
Add Chocolate Chips: After the 5 minutes of boiling, add the 6-ounce package of milk chocolate chips to the saucepan. Stir until the chocolate chips are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
Incorporate Marshmallows: Add the 16 large marshmallows to the saucepan. Stir continuously until the marshmallows are melted and fully incorporated into the mixture.
Finish the Fudge
Add Vanilla and Nuts: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and 1 cup of chopped nuts. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
Pour into Pan: Pour the fudge mixture into an 8-inch pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Cool and Cut: Allow the fudge to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.
Variations and Substitutions
This fudge recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs:
Different Chocolate: Substitute milk chocolate chips with dark chocolate or white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
Add-ins: Mix in dried fruits, coconut flakes, or crushed candies along with the nuts for added texture and flavor.
Nut-Free: Omit the nuts if you prefer a smooth fudge or if there are nut allergies.
Flavored Extracts: Replace the vanilla extract with mint, almond, or orange extract for a unique twist.
Lower Sugar: Use a sugar substitute designed for baking to reduce the sugar content.
Conclusion
This 5-Minute Chocolate Fudge recipe is a quick and easy way to satisfy your sweet tooth. The combination of rich chocolate, creamy texture, and crunchy nuts makes it a delightful treat. Perfect for holiday parties, gifts, or just a quick dessert, this fudge is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the simplicity of making this delicious fudge and the joy of sharing it with family and friends. Happy baking!
