Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 5 minutes of cooking time, making it ideal for busy schedules.
- Minimal Ingredients: Requires only basic pantry staples, ensuring convenience.
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of chocolate chips and marshmallows creates a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable with your choice of nuts or additional flavorings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1⅔ cups granulated sugar
- ⅔ cup evaporated milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 (6-ounce) package semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture comes to a boil. Continue boiling for 5 minutes, stirring continuously to prevent scorching.
- Add Chocolate and Marshmallows: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the chocolate chips until melted and smooth. Quickly add the mini marshmallows and vanilla extract, stirring until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is well combined.
- Incorporate Nuts: If using, fold in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the fudge mixture.
- Set the Fudge: Pour the mixture into a greased or parchment-lined 8-inch square baking pan, spreading it evenly. Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature until set, or refrigerate for quicker setting, approximately 1-2 hours.
- Serve: Once firm, cut the fudge into small squares and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 16 to 24 pieces, depending on the size of the squares.
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour (including cooling time)
Variations
- Nut-Free: Omit the nuts for an allergy-friendly or smoother texture.
- Different Nuts: Substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or your preferred nuts.
- Flavor Twists: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract for a minty flavor, or swirl in peanut butter for a chocolate-peanut butter combination.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or refrigerate for up to two weeks.
- Freezing: For extended storage, freeze the fudge by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
FAQs
What type of chocolate chips work best for this fudge?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips are recommended for a balanced sweetness, but you can experiment with dark or milk chocolate chips based on your preference.
Can I use large marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?
Yes, large marshmallows can be used; simply cut them into smaller pieces to ensure they melt evenly.
Is it necessary to use a candy thermometer for this recipe?
No, a candy thermometer is not required. Following the timing instructions should yield the correct consistency.
Can I make this fudge dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the evaporated milk with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips and butter.
How can I tell if the fudge has set properly?
The fudge is set when it is firm to the touch and holds its shape when cut.
Can I add other mix-ins to this fudge recipe?
Absolutely! Consider adding dried fruits, shredded coconut, or crushed candies for additional flavor and texture.
What’s the best way to cut the fudge into neat squares?
Use a sharp knife, and for cleaner cuts, warm the knife blade under hot water, then dry it before slicing.
Why did my fudge turn out grainy?
Graininess can occur if the sugar wasn’t fully dissolved or if the mixture wasn’t stirred constantly. Ensure continuous stirring and proper boiling time.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and use a larger pan to accommodate the increased quantity.
How should I package this fudge for gifting?
Place pieces of fudge in decorative tins or boxes, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Conclusion
Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge is a versatile and delectable dessert that fits perfectly into any occasion, from holiday gatherings to simple weeknight treats. Its quick preparation time and rich flavor make it a go-to recipe for both novice and experienced cooks. Enjoy the creamy texture and customizable options this fudge offers, and share the sweetness with friends and family.
Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge
- Total Time: 1 hour (including cooling time)
- Yield: 16–24 pieces
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge is a quick and easy dessert recipe that combines rich chocolate with the crunch of nuts. Ready in just 5 minutes, this creamy, customizable treat is perfect for satisfying sweet cravings or sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1⅔ cups granulated sugar
- ⅔ cup evaporated milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 (6-ounce) package semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and salt. Stir constantly over medium heat until boiling. Continue boiling for 5 minutes, stirring continuously.
- Add Chocolate and Marshmallows: Remove from heat. Stir in chocolate chips until smooth. Add marshmallows and vanilla, stirring until fully melted and combined.
- Incorporate Nuts: If using, fold in chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
- Set the Fudge: Pour into a greased or parchment-lined 8-inch square baking pan, spreading evenly. Let cool at room temperature or refrigerate for 1-2 hours until firm.
- Serve: Cut into small squares and enjoy.
Notes
- For nut-free fudge, omit the nuts.
- Substitute pecans with your preferred nuts like walnuts or almonds.
- Add peppermint extract for a holiday twist or swirl in peanut butter for a unique flavor.
- To cut cleanly, warm the knife blade under hot water and dry before slicing.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
