Introduction
Chocolate fudge has been a beloved classic for generations. Its smooth texture, deep chocolate flavor, and melt-in-your-mouth richness make it a timeless dessert perfect for holidays, celebrations, or whenever you need a sweet moment. This old-fashioned treat originated in the late 1800s and quickly became a favorite in American kitchens due to its simplicity and indulgent taste.
Ingredients
3 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup unsalted butter
1 1/2 cups evaporated milk
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 jar (7 oz) marshmallow creme
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional additions: 1 cup chopped nuts, crushed cookies, caramel swirls, or mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Prepare the pan
Line an 8×8 or 9×9 inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang to lift the fudge out later. - Heat the base mixture
Add sugar, butter, and evaporated milk to a heavy saucepan.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to boil.
Once boiling, continue to stir and cook for 4 to 5 minutes. The mixture should thicken and start to pull away from the sides of the pot. - Add the chocolate
Remove the pot from heat.
Immediately stir in the chocolate chips until they are fully melted and smooth. - Add marshmallow creme and flavor
Mix in the marshmallow creme, vanilla extract, and salt.
Stir until the mixture becomes silky and uniform. - Add mix-ins
If using nuts or other additions, fold them in gently. - Set the fudge
Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan.
Smooth the top with a spatula.
Let it sit at room temperature for 2 hours or refrigerate for 1 hour until firm. - Cut and serve
Lift the fudge out using the parchment paper.
Cut into squares.
Methods
Stovetop cooking
Manual stirring
Cooling and setting
Optional mix-in method for extra flavor layers
History
Chocolate fudge reportedly appeared in the late 19th century when a cooking student accidentally “fudged” a caramel recipe, resulting in the creamy treat we know today. Its simple ingredients made it popular during holidays and special gatherings. Over time, families personalized fudge with nuts, marshmallows, and creative mix-ins.
Benefits
Easy to prepare
Rich chocolate flavor
Perfect for gifting
Budget friendly
Long shelf life when stored properly
Customizable with nuts, caramel, or cookies
Nutrition
Approximate per small square (varies by size)
Calories: 120 to 150
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 5g
Protein: 1g
Sugar: 16g
Formation
You can form this fudge into:
Squares
Bars
Layered fudge with white chocolate
Marbled patterns
Thin slabs for cookie boxes or gift tins
Conclusion
This chocolate fudge recipe is easy, classic, and endlessly customizable. Whether you make it for celebrations, parties, or to satisfy a chocolate craving, it always delivers. It stores well, makes great gifts, and pleases every chocolate lover.
Lovers
This recipe is perfect for chocolate lovers, holiday dessert fans, fudge enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys simple, homemade sweets.
If you want, I can also give you:
Peanut butter fudge
White chocolate fudge
Cookies and cream fudge
3-ingredient fudge