The Best Fudge Ever Recipe
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.
- Author: liam
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: about 36 pieces (depending on size) 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
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)
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8 inch square pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Incorporate marshmallows: Remove the pot from heat and immediately stir in the marshmallow creme or mini marshmallows until fully melted and smooth.
- 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.
- Add nuts if desired: Fold in nuts to the smooth fudge mixture for added texture and flavor, if using.
- Set the fudge: Pour the finished fudge into the prepared pan, spread evenly, and allow it to cool completely at room temperature until firm.
- 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