Easy Chocolate Fudge Recipe

This homemade chocolate fudge recipe is seriously the easiest fudge to make. With just 4 ingredients to make the fudge base, you can then add in as many mixins as you would like. With no candy thermometer needed, this easy chocolate fudge recipe is great for making as a treat or for gift giving.

Easy Chocolate Fudge Recipe

One of my favorite treats to make during the holiday season is fudge. It is an easy treat to make and one that everyone always loves receiving as a gift. 

Not only is this chocolate fudge recipe easy to make but it is also super easy to customize and change up the flavors. You can add nuts, candies, dried fruit, and other mixins to make your fudge the way you like it. 

My whole family loves this basic chocolate fudge recipe. Sometimes we change it up by adding in candy pieces and nuts but this simple chocolate fudge recipe is smooth and creamy and can be enjoyed just the way it is.

The Best Fudge recipes

• White Chocolate Peppermint Fudge
• Salted Caramel Chocolate Fudge
• Peppermint Fudge
• Strawberry Fudge
• Peanut butter fudge
• Nutella Fudge

Tips for Making Easy Chocolate Fudge 

Use Quality Ingredients: Start with high-quality chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, butter, and pure vanilla extract. The quality of your ingredients will significantly impact the flavor and texture of your fudge.

Use the Double Boiler Method for melting the fudge ingredients. Melt your chocolate and butter using a double boiler (or a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water) to avoid scorching or burning the chocolate. Stir constantly until smooth.

Line the baking Pan. Line your pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some overhang. This makes it easy to lift the fudge out of the pan for cutting. You can also use non-stick cooking spray on the bottom of the baking dish instead of lining it but I find lining the pan works better.

Chill Thoroughly. Allow the fudge to set in the refrigerator for at least a few hours or overnight for best results. This ensures a firm and easy-to-slice fudge.

What add ins can I add to this fudge?

Adding extras to your homemade chocolate fudge can elevate its flavor and texture. You will want to add 1-2 cups total of add ins depending on the type you are adding in and how much of them you want. 

One of my favorite ways to fancy up this basic chocolate fudge recipe is to turn it into a rocky road fudge by adding peanuts and marshmallows.

Here are some popular add-ins to consider:

• Nuts. Chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, almonds, pistachios or hazelnuts are classic fudge additions. They provide a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
• Dried Fruits. Dried fruits like cherries, cranberries, apricots, or raisins can add a chewy and slightly tart contrast to the sweetness of the fudge.
• Cookies or Biscuits. Crushed cookies such as Oreos, graham crackers, or chocolate chip cookies can create a cookies-and-cream-inspired fudge. They add both texture and extra flavor.
• Candies. Chopped candy bars, M&M’s, Reese’s Pieces, or other small candies can be stirred into the fudge for a fun and colorful twist. If you are wanting to make it holiday festive pieces of candy canes are a great option as well. 
• Coconut. Toasted shredded coconut adds a tropical flair and a pleasant texture to your fudge.
• Caramel. Drizzle or swirl caramel sauce on top of your fudge before it sets for a gooey and sweet contrast.

Can I change the type of chocolate?

Yes. I like using milk chocolate melting chips you can also use dark chocolate melting chips. If you don’t have melting chips then you can use milk chocolate chips, semi-sweet chocolate chips, dark chocolate chips or white chocolate chips when making this easy fudge recipe. 

Can I make this fudge in the microwave?

You can use the microwave when making this fudge, however, the best way to have smooth and creamy chocolate fudge is to use a double boiler. 

How to Store Easy Chocolate Fudge

Store the chocolate fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days, or in the refrigerator for a longer shelf life. You can also freeze it for several months.

Can you freeze Fudge?

Yes! Freezing homemade chocolate fudge is a great way to extend its shelf life and enjoy it over an extended period. 

How to freeze homemade fudge

Here’s how you can freeze your fudge properly:

• Cool Completely: Allow your homemade chocolate fudge to cool completely at room temperature. It should be firm and set before attempting to freeze it.
• Cut Into Portions: Cut the fudge into individual portions or squares. This makes it easier to thaw and enjoy later without having to defrost the entire batch.
• Wrap Each Piece: Wrap each piece of fudge individually in plastic wrap or wax paper. This helps prevent them from sticking together and keeps them fresh.
• Double Wrap: For extra protection against freezer burn and to maintain freshness, you can double-wrap the individual pieces. Place the wrapped fudge pieces in an airtight container or a resealable plastic freezer bag.
• Label and Date: Don’t forget to label the container or bag with the date so you can keep track of its freshness. Fudge can typically be stored in the freezer for 2 to 3 months.
• Freeze: Place the container or bag of wrapped fudge in the freezer. Try to place it in an area where it won’t get crushed or disturbed.
• Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen fudge, remove the desired number of pieces from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours or at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Thawing at room temperature may result in a slightly softer texture, which some people prefer.

Easy Chocolate Fudge Recipe Ingredients

• 20 ounces milk chocolate melts
• 14 ounces of sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons butter, room temperature

How to Make Easy Chocolate Fudge

Grease the baking pan with non-stick cooking spray or line with parchment paper an 8 x 8-inch square pan. Set aside.

Fill a large pot filled with water and place it on the stove.

In a large heat-safe bowl add all of the ingredients except any addins that you are adding. Place the bowl over a pot of water to make a double boiler.

Turn the stove temperature to medium heat and bring the water up to a boil. While it comes to a boil stir the mixture and keep stirring the chocolate mixture until all of the chocolate is melted.

Remove the bowl from the double boiler and add in any mixins that you want to add. Be sure to mix well.

Pour into prepared pan and let cool. Place it in the fridge for at least an hour. 

Once cooled, cut into 1-inch squares using a sharp knife. 

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