This Easy Homemade Chocolate Fudge uses just 3 ingredients and can be made entirely in the microwave. So rich, creamy and full of chocolate flavor, it’s a great recipe for gifts and parties during the holiday season.
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Homemade Chocolate Fudge
This recipe for Easy Homemade Chocolate Fudge is really as simple as 1-2-3. All you need is sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, vanilla extract and a microwave - no candy thermometer or double boiler necessary.
But, just because it’s simple does not mean this fudge is lacking in flavor. It’s basically rich and creamy, lightly sweetened squares of chocolate that melt in your mouth. And with any number of different variations to try, you will find yourself making this all holiday season long.
If you're on a fudge kick, be sure to try our Mint Chocolate Fudge, Reese's Peanut Butter Fudge. and this Animal Cookie Fudge.
Easy Homemade Chocolate Fudge Ingredients
- Sweetened Condensed Milk - be sure you are not using evaporated milk as they are entirely different ingredients and evaporated milk will not work.
- Chocolate Chips - we suggest using either milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips for this recipe. However, we also have provided a few variations that call for using different types of chocolate chips. Make a few different batches and find out what you like best.
- Vanilla Extract - pure vanilla extract tastes best.
How to Make Easy Fudge At Home
- Heat the sweetened condensed milk. In a large microwave-safe bowl, add the sweetened condensed milk. Microwave on high for 1 minute, or until bubbling.
- Add the chocolate chips and vanilla. Remove from the microwave, add in the chocolate chips and stir until smooth. If the chocolate chips aren't fully melted, heat in microwave again for 20 seconds and stir until all the chocolate chips are melted and the mixture is completely smooth.
- Pour into pan. Line a 9"x9" or 8"x8" square pan with parchment paper and pour the fudge mixture in.
- Cool. Refrigerate for 2-4 hours before cutting.
- Cut into squares. To cut the fudge, fill a tall cup with hot water and place a sharp knife into warm water. Wipe the blade dry before cutting, then cut into 1" squares, wiping the blade frequently between cuts.
- Serve or store. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes - just place the sweetened condensed milk into a small sauce pot and heat over medium heat until bubbling. Be sure to stir constantly with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula so that it does not burn. Once bubbling, turn off the heat and add the chocolate chips.
Stir until completely melted, then add in the vanilla extract and transfer to your prepared pan.
Homemade Fudge lasts for quite a while, since all of the ingredients are very shelf-stable. You can store up to 5 days at room temperature, a month in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.
Yes! It freezes great. We suggest cutting into cubes, then freezing flat on a sheet tray for at least 30 minutes. Once chilled, transfer to an airtight container or freezer bags and store for up to 3 months.
No! It does not work - you must make this chocolate fudge with condensed milk.
Recipe Variations for Easy Fudge
It's easy to make all different types of fudge. Here are just a few ideas to get you started:
- Peanut Butter Fudge - melt 2 tablespoons of peanut butter along with the chocolate chips.
- Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Fudge - use dark chocolate chips and make as directed, then sprinkle sea salt over the top before letting it set.
- Rocky Road Fudge - add mini marshmallows and a handful of chopped and toasted almonds or walnuts.
- Mint Chocolate Chip Fudge - add peppermint extract instead of vanilla extract, along with a handful of mini chocolate chips mixed in once the mixture has cooled.
- Marble Fudge - make two batches - one with semi sweet chocolate chips and one with white chocolate chips. Line a 9”x13” pan with parchment paper then add each batch in separately. Take a toothpick and swirl them together to marble, then place in the fridge to set.
Storing Fudge
- Room Temperature: store in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature.
- Refrigerator: store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 month.
- Freezer: store frozen, either in freezer bags or an airtight container, for up to 3 months.
Easy Homemade Chocolate Fudge Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 14-oz Can Sweetened Condensed Milk
- 2 cups Chocolate Chips milk chocolate or semi sweet
- ½ teaspoon Vanilla Extract
Instructions
- Line a 9"x9" or 8"x8" square pan with parchment paper and set aside.
- Add the chocolate chips to a medium sized mixing bowl.
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, add the sweetened condensed milk. Microwave on high for 1 minute, or until bubbling. Remove from the microwave and add to the bowl of chocolate chips. Stir until smooth.
- If the chocolate chips aren't fully melted, heat in microwave again for 20 seconds and stir until all the chips are melted and the mixture is completely smooth.
- Add the vanilla extract, stir, and pour into the prepared pan. Spread into the pan with an off-set spatula.
- Refrigerate until set before cutting. To cut the fudge, fill a tall cup with hot water and place a sharp knife into warm water. Wipe the blade dry before cutting, then cut into 1" squares, wiping the blade frequently between cuts.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, for the fridge for up to 1 month. Enjoy!
Nutrition
More Favorite Holiday Candy Recipes
- Best Christmas Candy Recipes
- Pretzel Toffee
- Buttery English Toffee
- Peanut Butter Balls
- Homemade Caramels
- Coconut Caramel Popcorn
- More Christmas Recipes
- More Candy Recipes
This Easy Homemade Chocolate Fudge is right and creamy, slightly sweetened and melts in your mouth. Plus, all you'll need to make it are just 3 ingredients and a microwave.
Katie
Fudge is a staple in our house around the holidays. This one doesn't disappoint!
Jess
I love chocolate fudge - and this recipe is superior! thank you!