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Creamy Classic Fantasy Fudge: Easy 5-Minute Homemade Recipe

creamy fantasy fudge - featured image

This foolproof fudge recipe delivers a perfectly creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture without the stress of a candy thermometer. Made with simple pantry ingredients, it’s ready in just 5 minutes of active time and is guaranteed to convert even the most stubborn fudge skeptics.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter (1 1/2 sticks), cut into pieces
  • 2/3 cup evaporated milk
  • 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips (about 2 cups)
  • 1 jar (7 ounces) marshmallow fluff
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions

  1. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving about 2 inches of overhang on two opposite sides. Lightly grease the liner with butter or nonstick spray.
  2. In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine 3 cups granulated sugar, 3/4 cup unsalted butter (cut into pieces), and 2/3 cup evaporated milk. Place over medium heat and stir constantly until butter is melted and sugar is dissolved.
  3. Bring the mixture to a full, rolling boil. Once boiling, stop stirring and let it boil for exactly 4 minutes. The mixture should be thick and slightly darker in color.
  4. Optional: Test for soft-ball stage by dropping a small spoonful into a glass of cold water. It should form a soft, pliable ball that holds its shape. If using a candy thermometer, aim for 234°F to 240°F.
  5. Remove the pan from heat immediately. Add 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips and stir gently until completely melted and smooth.
  6. Add the entire 7-ounce jar of marshmallow fluff and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir vigorously until glossy and well combined, about 1-2 minutes.
  7. If using, fold in 1 cup chopped nuts until evenly distributed.
  8. Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly with a spatula.
  9. Let the fudge cool at room temperature for 2-3 hours, or until firm to the touch. For quicker results, refrigerate for about 1 hour.
  10. Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Place on a cutting board and cut into 1-inch squares with a sharp knife, wiping the knife clean between cuts.

Notes

For best results, make on a dry day as humidity can affect setting. If fudge is too soft, it may need longer boiling time next batch. The fudge actually improves after a day or two as flavors meld. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: fudge, creamy fudge, fantasy fudge, marshmallow fluff fudge, easy fudge, homemade fudge, holiday fudge, chocolate fudge, 5-minute fudge, no thermometer fudge