When you need a quick and delicious treat, Paula Deen’s 5 Minute Fudge is the perfect solution. This rich, chocolatey fudge requires only a few simple ingredients and minimal time, making it ideal for last-minute desserts or satisfying your sweet tooth in a hurry. With a smooth and creamy texture, this fudge is sure to become a favorite in your household. Read on to discover how to make this easy and delightful treat!

What is 5 Minute Fudge?
5 Minute Fudge is a quick and easy version of the classic chocolate fudge. It uses sweetened condensed milk and chocolate chips as the base, combined with butter and vanilla for added richness and flavor. This fudge is perfect for those moments when you want a homemade treat without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. It's also a great recipe for beginners or for making with kids.
Ingredients List for 5 Minute Fudge
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped nuts (optional)
Substitutions and Variations
Feel free to customize your fudge with these substitutions and variations:
- Chocolate Chips: Use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate chips.
- Add-ins: Stir in dried fruits, mini marshmallows, or toffee bits for added texture and flavor.
- Extracts: Try different extracts such as almond, peppermint, or coconut for a unique twist.
- Nuts: Substitute with pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts, or omit them entirely for a nut-free version.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
How to Cook 5 Minute Fudge: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the lining with butter or cooking spray.
- Melt the Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir continuously until the chocolate and butter are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. If you’re adding nuts or other mix-ins, fold them in at this stage.
- Pour into the Pan: Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Chill the Fudge: Place the baking dish in the refrigerator and let the fudge chill for at least 2 hours, or until it is firm.
- Cut and Serve: Once the fudge is set, use the parchment paper or foil overhang to lift it out of the pan. Cut the fudge into small squares and serve.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your 5 Minute Fudge turns out perfectly every time, avoid these common mistakes:
- Overheating the Chocolate: Melt the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter over low heat to prevent burning or seizing.
- Not Stirring Constantly: Stir continuously while melting the ingredients to ensure a smooth and creamy mixture.
- Skipping the Lining: Line your baking dish with parchment paper or foil for easy removal and clean-up.
Serving and Presentation Tips
How to Serve 5 Minute Fudge
This fudge is best served chilled. Arrange the fudge squares on a decorative plate or platter for a beautiful presentation. For an extra touch, dust the fudge with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or cocoa powder.
Presentation Ideas for 5 Minute Fudge
For an attractive presentation, consider these ideas:
- Gift Boxes: Place the fudge squares in small gift boxes lined with parchment paper for a delightful homemade gift.
- Decorative Tins: Arrange the fudge in decorative tins for holiday treats or special occasions.
- Garnishes: Top each fudge square with a whole nut, a piece of dried fruit, or a sprinkle of sea salt for added visual appeal.
5 Minute Fudge Recipe Tips
- Use High-Quality Chocolate: The better the quality of the chocolate chips, the better the flavor of your fudge.
- Chill Thoroughly: Ensure the fudge is fully chilled and set before cutting to get clean, even squares.
- Store Properly: Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and firm.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this fudge without nuts?
Yes, you can omit the nuts for a nut-free version of this fudge.
How do I store the fudge?
Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Absolutely! You can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate chips depending on your preference.
How do I freeze the fudge?
To freeze the fudge, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe and use a 9x13-inch baking dish. Adjust the chilling time as needed to ensure the fudge sets properly.
Conclusion
Paula Deen’s 5 Minute Fudge is a quick and delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich, chocolatey flavor and creamy texture, this fudge is sure to be a hit with everyone. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, a party, or just because, this easy recipe will become a go-to in your dessert repertoire. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a delicious homemade fudge that’s ready in no time!
PrintPaula Deen’s 5 Minute Fudge Recipe
Paula Deen's 5-minute fudge recipe is a quick and easy way to satisfy your sweet tooth. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this fudge is perfect for a fast dessert or a homemade gift.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 7 minutes (including refrigeration time)
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 package (12 oz/340g) semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup (240ml) sweetened condensed milk
- ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (120g) chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Line an 8-inch square baking dish with foil or parchment paper and lightly grease.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter.
- Microwave on high in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Stir in vanilla extract and nuts (if using).
- Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and spread evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
- Lift the fudge out of the dish using the foil or parchment paper. Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate chips.
- Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness if desired.
- Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (1/16 of the fudge)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 25mg
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