Easy Homemade Chocolate Fudge: The Ultimate Creamy, No-Fail Recipe for Any Occasion

Indulge in the rich, velvety goodness of classic chocolate fudge – a surprisingly easy-to-make treat that promises to be a crowd-pleaser and disappear in record time!

There are some traditions that simply stick with you, becoming an integral part of your life’s sweetest memories. For me, growing up, our holiday season wasn’t complete without a batch of homemade fudge. Every Christmas Eve, the aroma of melting chocolate and sugar would fill our kitchen, signaling the start of a cherished ritual. This particular chocolate fudge recipe wasn’t just a dessert; it was a symbol of family, warmth, and the simple joys of the season. It quickly became my all-time favorite, a confection I eagerly anticipated year after year.

Today, that tradition lives on in my own family. Just like my childhood, the holidays aren’t truly here until we’ve made this incredible fudge. And because we’re also huge fans of that delightful peanut butter and chocolate combination, we often whip up a batch of Reese’s Fudge right alongside it. There’s something truly special about creating these treats, knowing they’ll bring smiles and sweet moments to everyone who tastes them. This classic chocolate fudge is more than just a recipe; it’s a legacy of love and flavor that I’m thrilled to share with you.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Easy Chocolate Fudge Recipe

If you’ve ever been intimidated by making fudge from scratch, prepare to have your mind changed. This recipe is designed for simplicity without compromising on flavor or texture. Here’s why this chocolate fudge will quickly become a staple in your kitchen:

Effortless, No-Bake Perfection: Forget about preheating ovens or complex baking steps. This fudge comes together entirely on the stovetop. You simply combine the ingredients, bring them to a boil, and stir until perfectly done. It’s incredibly easy and surprisingly fast, making it ideal for busy schedules or impromptu dessert cravings. It’s a fantastic entry point for anyone new to candy making.
Perfect for Planning Ahead & Gifting: This recipe is a dream for meal prep or holiday gifting. Fudge holds up beautifully when made in advance and even freezes exceptionally well. Planning a party? Make it days or weeks ahead. Looking for heartfelt homemade gifts? Slice the fudge into charming pieces, arrange them in cute bags or decorative tins, and delight your friends, neighbors, teachers, or colleagues. It’s a personal touch that always makes a big impression.
Pantry-Friendly Ingredients: Most of the ingredients needed for this decadent fudge are likely already in your pantry. Aside from the occasional trip for marshmallow fluff (which is widely available), you’ll typically have butter, sugar, evaporated milk, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract on hand. This makes it a fantastic last-minute dessert option, ensuring you’re always just moments away from a batch of irresistible homemade fudge.
Unforgettable Taste and Texture: This fudge isn’t just easy; it’s incredibly delicious. It boasts a perfectly creamy texture that melts in your mouth, combined with a rich, deep chocolate flavor that satisfies every craving. It’s the kind of nostalgic treat that takes you back to simpler times, yet it’s sophisticated enough for any dessert spread.

Essential Ingredients for Your Creamy Chocolate Fudge

Creating this delicious fudge requires just a handful of common ingredients. The quality of these components, especially the chocolate, will significantly impact the final taste and texture. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness of your fudge, or salted if you prefer a slight contrast to the sweetness. It contributes to the rich flavor and smooth texture.
Granulated Sugar: The backbone of any fudge recipe, providing sweetness and forming the crystalline structure necessary for setting.
Evaporated Milk: This concentrated milk gives the fudge its signature creamy consistency and rich flavor, preventing it from becoming too dry or crumbly.
Marshmallow Fluff (or Marshmallow Cream): A secret ingredient for many foolproof fudge recipes! It helps achieve an incredibly smooth, soft, and stable texture, preventing graininess and making the fudge much easier to get right.
Chocolate Chips: The star of the show! We’ll discuss the best types to use below to ensure optimal flavor and melt.
Vanilla Extract: A crucial flavor enhancer that complements the chocolate and adds depth and warmth to the overall profile of the fudge. Use pure vanilla extract for the best results.

Choosing the Best Chocolate for Your Fudge

Since chocolate is the predominant flavor in this recipe, selecting a high-quality chocolate is paramount. The type of chocolate you choose will significantly influence the sweetness, richness, and overall depth of your fudge. Here’s a guide to help you make the best choice:

Semi-Sweet Chocolate: This is my go-to recommendation for classic chocolate fudge. It strikes a perfect balance, providing a rich chocolate flavor that complements the sweetness of the sugar without being overwhelmingly sugary. The recipe contains enough sugar that semi-sweet chips will result in a beautifully sweet and balanced fudge.

Dark Chocolate: If you prefer a less sweet, more intense chocolate experience, dark chocolate is an excellent choice. Varieties with a higher cocoa percentage (e.g., 60-70%) will yield a fudge with a deeper, more sophisticated bitterness that cuts through the sweetness beautifully. Just be sure not to go too dark, as it might become overly bitter for some.

Avoid Milk Chocolate: While delicious on its own, milk chocolate tends to be much sweeter due to its higher sugar and milk content. When combined with the considerable amount of sugar already in this fudge recipe, milk chocolate can result in an excessively sweet and cloying treat. For a truly balanced and enjoyable fudge, it’s best to steer clear of milk chocolate.

Quality Matters: Investing in good quality chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bars will elevate your fudge from good to exceptional. Premium brands melt more smoothly and offer a richer, more nuanced flavor. I personally recommend using Ghirardelli or Guittard chocolate chips when making fudge. They consistently deliver excellent results in terms of both melt and taste. However, always choose the best quality chocolate that fits your budget, as it truly makes a difference in the final product’s decadence.

Remember, the better the chocolate, the better your fudge will taste. Don’t underestimate this critical ingredient!

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Perfect Chocolate Fudge

Making homemade fudge might seem daunting, but this recipe simplifies the process into a few straightforward steps. Follow these instructions carefully for a consistently creamy and delicious result:

Prepare Your Pan: Before you start cooking, ensure your pan is ready. Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan thoroughly with butter or line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy lifting later. This step is crucial to prevent the fudge from sticking and ensures effortless removal once it’s set.
Combine & Heat Initial Ingredients: In a heavy-duty stock pot or a Dutch oven (a thick-bottomed pot is essential to prevent scorching), combine the granulated sugar, butter, and evaporated milk. Place the pot over medium heat. It’s vital to stir this mixture constantly as it heats up. This helps the sugar dissolve evenly and prevents the butter from separating or burning at the bottom of the pan. Continue stirring until the mixture reaches a vigorous, rolling boil.
Boil to Temperature: Once the mixture achieves a rolling boil (meaning it continues to bubble even when stirred), continue to boil for approximately 3 minutes. For precision, use a candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches exactly 234º F (112º C). This temperature is the “soft ball stage” in candy making, which is critical for achieving the correct fudge consistency – firm enough to hold its shape but soft and pliable when bitten.
Remove from Heat & Add Chocolate/Marshmallow: Immediately remove the pot from the heat as soon as it reaches the target temperature. This stops the cooking process and prevents over-boiling. Quickly add the chocolate chips and the marshmallow cream to the hot mixture. Stir vigorously until all the chocolate chips are completely melted and the marshmallow cream is fully incorporated, creating a smooth and glossy mixture.
Stir in Vanilla: Add the vanilla extract to the fudge mixture. Stir it in until it’s thoroughly blended. Vanilla is typically added last to preserve its delicate flavor, as prolonged heating can diminish its potency.
Pour and Set: Pour the smooth fudge mixture into your prepared 9×13 inch pan. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer. Allow the fudge to set undisturbed at room temperature until it completely hardens, which usually takes approximately 90 minutes to 2 hours. For faster setting, you can place it in the refrigerator, but allow it to come to room temperature slightly before serving for the best texture.

Once your fudge is perfectly set, you can slice it into squares and enjoy your homemade masterpiece!

Ensuring Your Fudge Reaches the Perfect Consistency: The Doneness Tests

Knowing exactly when your fudge mixture is “done” is the most crucial step in achieving that ideal creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Overcooking can lead to dry, crumbly fudge, while undercooking results in a fudge that won’t set properly. While the boiling time is a good guideline (around 3 minutes), several factors like the brand of butter, water content in ingredients, and stove heat intensity can cause slight variations. Therefore, using one of these two methods is essential for consistent success:

1. The Candy Thermometer Method:

This is the most accurate and foolproof method, highly recommended for beginners. A good candy thermometer will be your best friend in candy making.

The Target Temperature: You want the sugar mixture to reach precisely 234º F (112º C). This temperature corresponds to the “soft ball stage” in candy making.
What it Means: At this stage, when a small amount of the hot syrup is dropped into cold water, it forms a soft, pliable ball that can be easily squashed between your fingers. It’s firm enough to hold its shape but still deliciously soft and decadent to bite into, which is exactly what we want for creamy fudge.
How to Use: Clip your candy thermometer to the side of your heavy pot, ensuring the bulb is immersed in the sugar mixture but not touching the bottom. Stir constantly while boiling and keep a close eye on the temperature. Remove from heat immediately once it hits 234º F.

2. The Cold Water Soft Ball Test:

This is a traditional method that requires a bit more practice but is reliable once you get the hang of it.

Preparation: Have a very cold bowl of water (preferably with ice cubes) ready next to your stove before you start boiling.
Testing Process: Around 2.5 minutes into the rolling boil, carefully drop about half a teaspoon of the hot sugar mixture into the cold water.
Forming the Ball: Let it cool for a few seconds, then use your fingers to try and form the dropped syrup into a soft ball. Be careful, as the syrup can still be quite hot.
The “Done” Indication: As soon as the syrup can just hold its shape as a soft, pliable ball without dissolving or being too hard, it’s done! Immediately remove the pan from the heat.
Important Tip: Repeat the test with fresh cold water each time you test, as the previous drops will warm the water, affecting accuracy. This method is more visual and tactile, so trust your senses. If it’s too sticky and won’t form a ball, it needs more time. If it’s hard and brittle, you’ve gone too far.

Whichever method you choose, precision and timing are key. Don’t rush or guess; take the extra moment to ensure your fudge reaches the perfect stage for a truly magnificent outcome.

Proper Storage for Fresh and Delicious Fudge

Once your homemade chocolate fudge is perfectly set and sliced, proper storage is key to maintaining its freshness, creamy texture, and rich flavor. Fudge is a fantastic make-ahead treat, and with these tips, you can enjoy it for an extended period.

Room Temperature Storage: For immediate enjoyment, store your fudge in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep it fresh and delicious for up to one week. Placing a piece of parchment paper between layers of fudge can prevent them from sticking together. Avoid direct sunlight or warm areas, as this can cause the fudge to melt or become too soft.
Refrigeration: While not strictly necessary for short-term storage, refrigerating fudge can extend its shelf life slightly, especially in warmer climates. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks. Be aware that refrigerated fudge might be a bit firmer; let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving for optimal texture.
Freezing for Long-Term Enjoyment: Fudge freezes exceptionally well, making it ideal for holiday baking or ensuring you always have a sweet treat on hand.
- Preparation for Freezing: Once the fudge is completely cooled and set, slice it into individual pieces. This makes it easier to thaw only what you need.
- Wrapping: Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place the wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe, airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. You can also layer them, using parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
- Freezer Life: Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Thawing: To serve, simply remove the desired amount of fudge from the freezer and let it thaw on the counter at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes. It will return to its original creamy consistency and rich flavor, ready to be enjoyed as if it were freshly made.

By following these simple storage guidelines, you can ensure every bite of your homemade chocolate fudge is as delightful as the first!

Close-up view of multiple slices of rich, dark chocolate fudge, perfectly cut and arranged

Tips for Perfect Fudge Every Time

Achieving consistently perfect fudge is easier than you think, especially with a few insider tips. Here’s how to ensure your chocolate fudge is always creamy, smooth, and utterly delicious:

Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pot: This is crucial! A thick-bottomed stock pot or Dutch oven distributes heat more evenly, preventing the sugar mixture from scorching on the bottom, which can lead to grainy fudge.
Stir Constantly During Boiling: While the mixture is heating and boiling, continuous stirring prevents the sugar from crystallizing on the sides of the pot and ensures even cooking.
Do Not Scrape the Sides: After reaching the boiling temperature and especially after adding the chocolate and marshmallow, try not to scrape down the sides of the pot with your spatula. Sugar crystals can form on the sides and, if introduced back into the main mixture, can cause the entire batch to become grainy.
Humidity Matters: High humidity can affect how fudge sets. On very humid days, it might take a little longer for your fudge to harden. Don’t worry, just give it extra time.
Patience is Key for Setting: Resist the urge to cut into the fudge before it’s completely set. Allowing it to harden fully at room temperature or in the refrigerator (for faster setting) ensures clean cuts and a firm, yet still creamy, texture.
Don’t Over-Stir After Adding Chocolate: Once the chocolate and marshmallow are added, stir only until everything is just combined and smooth. Over-stirring at this stage can introduce too much air, which can also affect the fudge’s final texture and make it less creamy.
Ingredient Temperature: While not always critical, having ingredients like butter and evaporated milk at room temperature can sometimes help them combine more smoothly in the initial stages.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Chocolate Fudge

Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making this delightful chocolate fudge:

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of marshmallow fluff? Yes, you can! For every 7 oz jar of marshmallow fluff, you can substitute about 4 cups of mini marshmallows. Add them at the same step as the fluff, ensuring they melt completely into the hot mixture. The fluff often yields a slightly smoother texture, but marshmallows work well too.
Why is my fudge grainy? Grainy fudge is typically caused by sugar crystallization. This can happen if the sugar mixture isn’t dissolved completely before boiling, if you scrape sugar crystals from the sides of the pot back into the mixture, or if the fudge is overcooked (boiled too long or to too high a temperature). Using a candy thermometer and avoiding scraping the sides can help prevent this.
Why didn’t my fudge set? If your fudge didn’t set, it’s most likely undercooked. The sugar mixture didn’t reach the “soft ball stage” (234°F/112°C). Ensure you use an accurate candy thermometer or perform the cold water test correctly to hit the precise temperature. Humidity can also sometimes play a role, making it take longer to set.
Can I half or double the recipe? While technically possible, candy recipes like fudge can be sensitive to scaling. Halving might work better than doubling. If you do scale, be extra vigilant with cooking times and temperatures, as these will change. A larger batch might take longer to reach the correct temperature.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins? Absolutely! Once the fudge is smooth and the vanilla is stirred in, you can fold in about 1 to 1.5 cups of chopped nuts (like walnuts, pecans, or almonds), crushed peppermints, mini marshmallows, or other desired mix-ins. Stir gently until just combined before pouring into the prepared pan.
How do I cut fudge cleanly? Once the fudge is completely set and firm, remove it from the pan using the parchment paper overhang (if used). Place it on a cutting board. For clean slices, use a sharp, warm knife. You can run the knife under hot water and wipe it dry between cuts.

More Fun Christmas Treats

The holiday season is a perfect time to indulge in delicious homemade sweets. If you loved making this chocolate fudge, you might also enjoy these other festive recipes, perfect for sharing with family and friends or adding to your holiday dessert platter:

Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls: A delightful twist on a classic, perfect for a cozy Christmas morning.
Sour Cream Cookies: Soft, tender cookies with a unique tang that pairs wonderfully with holiday flavors.
Christmas Jello Shots: A fun and vibrant adult treat for your holiday party.
Homemade Turtle Candies: Recreate the classic combination of pecans, caramel, and chocolate right in your kitchen.
White Chocolate Gingerbread Cookies: A festive fusion of spicy gingerbread and sweet white chocolate.
Christmas Magic Bars: Layers of deliciousness, featuring coconut, chocolate chips, and a sweet condensed milk base.
Avalanche Cookies: Quick, no-bake cookies with peanut butter, chocolate, and marshmallows – a perfect treat for any time.

4.80 from 5 votes

Fudge

By Erin Sellin

This classic rich and creamy chocolate fudge recipe is incredibly easy to make and guaranteed to be a hit. Perfect for holidays, gifting, or a quick sweet treat, it disappears in no time!

Prep: 5 minutes

Cook: 10 minutes

Total: 15 minutes

Servings: 48

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Ingredients

▢ 2/3 cup evaporated milk
▢ 1 cup butter
▢ 3 cups granulated sugar
▢ 7 oz jar marshmallow fluff
▢ 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
▢ 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Butter or grease a 9×13 inch pan thoroughly. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Set aside.
In a heavy duty stock pot or Dutch oven, combine the sugar, butter, and evaporated milk. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches a full, rolling boil.
Once at a rolling boil, continue stirring and let it boil for approximately 3 minutes, or until a candy thermometer reads 234º F (112º C). This is the “soft ball stage.”
Remove the pan immediately from the heat. Add the chocolate chips and marshmallow cream. Mix vigorously until all ingredients are well combined and smooth, and the chocolate is fully melted.
Stir in the vanilla extract until it is evenly blended into the fudge mixture.
Pour the fudge into the prepared pan and spread it into an even layer using a spatula.
Let the fudge set until it hardens completely, which typically takes about 90 minutes at room temperature. For faster setting, you can place it in the refrigerator.

Notes

To accurately test when fudge is done, beyond using a candy thermometer, you can employ the “soft ball test.” Have a very cold bowl of water next to the stove. Around 2 1/2 minutes into boiling, drop a small amount of the sugar mixture into the water. Use your hands to form it into a soft ball. As soon as it can just hold its shape, the fudge is done and you can remove it from the heat. This ensures a perfectly creamy texture.

This recipe is slightly adapted from the classic Kraft Fantasy Fudge, a beloved and reliable method for delicious results.

Nutrition

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Author: Erin Sellin

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Course: Dessert Recipes, Candy

Cuisine: American

Servings: 48

Calories: 134

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Embrace the joy of homemade goodness with this timeless chocolate fudge recipe. Happy cooking!