Easy Chocolate Fudge Recipe

Name: Easy Chocolate Fudge Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 3 cups semisweet chocolate chips; 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk (1 can); Pinch salt; 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract; ½ cup chopped nuts (optional)

by Michelle
published October 27, 2020

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4.21 (67 ratings)

This quick and easy super creamy 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 holiday gifts!

Piece of chocolate fudge with a bite taken out of it.

Whenever I see a good fudge recipe I think of childhood vacations at the coast, and the tiny little fudge shop we would see on our way to buy sunscreen. The rich chocolate smell was incredible, and though I was raised by bakers, fudge is in a world of its own and can feel intimidating to make at home!

I have no shame in saying that I love to go the quick and easy route when it comes to fudge recipes. A simple base you can add to is key, and this is my go-to when I need to add just a little more variety to holiday treat trays!

Pouring sweetened condensed milk into pan with chocolate chips.

Kitchen tools you’ll need

This list is short and sweet! Just grab a few items and you’re all set…

8-inch square baking pan; any will do, but a higher edge is great.
Silicone spatula or wooden spoon
Saucepan (3 to 4-quart) with tall sides

Stirring chocolate fudge mixture in saucepan.

How to make easy homemade 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 a square baking pan with 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! You’ll have rich, creamy fudge ready to go by the time dinner is done!

Chocolate fudge mixture in foil-lined pan.

Tips & tricks for making the best chocolate fudge

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.
Looking for a fudge recipe without sweetened condensed milk? Doable with this magical microwave fudge recipe!
Fudge is great for making ahead and gifting, so check out these tips for storing fudge!
If your fudge 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.

Fudge smoothed into even layer in pan.

Storing and packaging

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.
The fudge can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 6 months. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
To package for gifts, place some pieces of fudge in a clear treat bag and tie with a pretty ribbon.

Overhead photo of squares of fudge.

Ready for more fudge recipes?

Stack of three pieces of fudge with walnuts on top.

I would absolutely love it if you made this fudge recipe; if you do, please stop back and leave a rating and let me know how you liked it! ENJOY! 😍