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The Best Fudge Ever Recipe

4.9 from 119 reviews

This rich and creamy fudge recipe combines classic ingredients like butter, evaporated milk, corn syrup, sugar, marshmallow creme, and semi-sweet chocolate chips to create the best fudge ever. Its simple stovetop cooking method ensures perfect texture every time, with an option to add nuts for extra crunch, making it a timeless treat ideal for gifting or indulging.

Ingredients

Scale

Fudge Base

  • 1 stick of salted butter (1/2 cup)
  • 5 oz. can of evaporated milk (or 10 tablespoons if using a larger can)
  • 1/4 cup corn syrup
  • 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar

Mix-ins

  • 7 oz. jar of marshmallow creme or 2 cups mini marshmallows
  • 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup nuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8 inch square pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix chocolate and vanilla: Place the chocolate chips and vanilla extract into a large bowl and set aside; this will be combined later to create a smooth chocolate mixture.
  3. Combine base ingredients: In a medium-sized pot, combine the butter, evaporated milk, corn syrup, and granulated sugar. The pot should be about half full to allow room for boiling.
  4. Cook to soft ball stage: Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Bring it to a boil and continue stirring until it reaches 234ºF (soft ball stage) on a candy thermometer. Alternatively, test by dropping a spoonful into ice water to see if a soft, pliable ball forms.
  5. Incorporate marshmallows: Remove the pot from heat and immediately stir in the marshmallow creme or mini marshmallows until fully melted and smooth.
  6. Combine with chocolate: Pour the hot marshmallow mixture over the chocolate chips and vanilla. Stir gently but thoroughly until the chocolate has completely melted and the mixture is homogeneous.
  7. Add nuts if desired: Fold in nuts to the smooth fudge mixture for added texture and flavor, if using.
  8. Set the fudge: Pour the finished fudge into the prepared pan, spread evenly, and allow it to cool completely at room temperature until firm.
  9. Serve: Once set, cut the fudge into squares and enjoy or package as gifts.

Notes

  • A 9×13 inch pan can be used for thinner pieces of fudge.
  • Be careful not to over-stir after adding the chocolate chips as it can affect the texture.
  • This fudge does not require refrigeration and can be gifted without chilling.
  • Different types of chocolate chips (peanut butter, dark chocolate, butterscotch, white chocolate) can be used to vary flavors.
  • Butter is added at the start in this recipe, but some old-fashioned recipes add butter at the end for a richer flavor.
  • At high altitudes (~4500 feet), slight adjustments in cooking temperature/time might be necessary to achieve the soft ball stage properly.

Keywords: fudge, homemade fudge, marshmallow fudge, chocolate fudge, easy fudge recipe, stovetop fudge, holiday fudge, classic fudge