This Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge is a rich, chocolatey, old-fashioned treat made with simple ingredients and very little effort. It is the perfect recipe when you want homemade fudge without spending a long time in the kitchen.
With sugar, evaporated milk, butter, chocolate chips, marshmallows, vanilla, and nuts, this fudge turns out sweet, creamy, and full of classic chocolate flavor. It is great for holidays, parties, dessert trays, edible gifts, or anytime you need a quick chocolate fix.
Why You’ll Love This Fudge Recipe
This easy chocolate fudge is perfect for beginners because it does not require complicated candy-making steps.
You’ll love this recipe because it is:
- Quick and simple to make
- Rich, sweet, and chocolatey
- Made with basic ingredients
- Perfect for holidays and gifting
- Easy to cut into squares
- Delicious with or without nuts
Ingredients
- 1 ⅔ cups white sugar
- ⅔ cup evaporated milk
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 package milk chocolate chips, 6 oz
- 16 large marshmallows
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped nuts
How to Make Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Lightly grease an 8-inch square pan or line it with parchment paper.
Using parchment paper makes it easier to lift the fudge out once it has set.
Step 2: Cook the Sugar Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine the white sugar, evaporated milk, unsalted butter, and salt.
Place the saucepan over medium heat.
Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly so the mixture does not stick or burn.
The mixture should become smooth and slightly thickened.
Step 3: Add the Chocolate Chips
Remove the saucepan from the heat.
Immediately add the milk chocolate chips.
Stir continuously until the chocolate chips are completely melted and the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.
Step 4: Add Marshmallows, Vanilla, and Nuts
Add the large marshmallows, vanilla extract, and chopped nuts to the warm chocolate mixture.
Stir well until the marshmallows are mostly melted and everything is evenly combined.
The nuts should be distributed throughout the fudge mixture.
Step 5: Pour into the Pan
Pour the hot fudge mixture into the prepared 8-inch square pan.
Spread it evenly with a spatula.
Step 6: Cool and Set
Let the fudge cool at room temperature until fully set.
This may take a few hours.
To speed up the process, place the pan in the refrigerator until the fudge becomes firm.
Step 7: Cut and Serve
Once the fudge is completely set, lift it from the pan if using parchment paper.
Cut into squares and serve.
Recipe Tips
Stir Constantly
Keep stirring while the sugar mixture cooks to prevent burning and help the sugar dissolve evenly.
Add Chocolate Off the Heat
Remove the pan from the heat before adding the chocolate chips. The remaining heat is enough to melt them smoothly.
Use Parchment Paper
Parchment paper makes it much easier to remove and slice the fudge.
Let It Set Fully
Do not cut the fudge too early. It needs time to firm up for clean slices.
Choose Your Favorite Nuts
Walnuts and pecans are classic choices, but almonds or peanuts can also work well.
Easy Variations
Nut-Free Fudge
Simply leave out the chopped nuts for a smooth chocolate fudge.
Dark Chocolate Fudge
Use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate chips for a deeper chocolate flavor.
Rocky Road Style
Add extra mini marshmallows and chopped nuts after the mixture cools slightly for a chunky texture.
Peanut Butter Swirl
Swirl a few tablespoons of peanut butter into the fudge before it sets.
Holiday Fudge
Top with crushed candy canes, sprinkles, or chopped candied nuts before chilling.
Storage Instructions
Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Place parchment paper between layers to prevent the pieces from sticking together.
Freezing Instructions
This fudge can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Wrap it tightly or store it in a freezer-safe container.
Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Serving Ideas
Serve this fudge:
- On holiday cookie trays
- With coffee or hot chocolate
- As a homemade edible gift
- At parties or potlucks
- As a quick chocolate dessert
- Packed in treat boxes
Final Thoughts
This Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge is a simple, classic chocolate treat that is rich, creamy, and easy to make. With just a few pantry ingredients and a short cooking time, you can prepare a homemade fudge that tastes perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or everyday snacking.
It is sweet, chocolatey, and wonderfully nostalgic—the kind of easy dessert recipe you will want to keep nearby.
