3-Ingredient Fudge

After a long week, there’s nothing quite like the promise of a sweet treat to lift spirits and gather the family around. This 3-Ingredient Fudge recipe has become an absolute staple in our home for just that reason. Honestly, I was skeptical at first – could something this simple actually taste good? But one bite was all it took to turn me into a believer. The kids adore it, practically inhaling it the moment it’s set, and even the adults can’t resist sneaking a piece (or two!). It’s become our go-to for impromptu dessert cravings, potlucks, and even holiday gatherings when time is of the essence. The best part? It’s so foolproof, even my youngest can “help” make it, creating sweet memories along with the delicious fudge itself. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a shortcut to instant happiness, and I’m thrilled to share the magic with you.

Ingredients

• Sweetened Condensed Milk: One 14-ounce can. This is the creamy, sweet base of our fudge, providing richness and binding the ingredients together. It’s crucial to use sweetened condensed milk, not evaporated milk, for the correct texture and sweetness.
• Chocolate Chips: 2 cups (approximately 12 ounces). Choose your favorite! Semi-sweet chocolate chips offer a classic fudge flavor, but you can experiment with dark chocolate for a richer taste, milk chocolate for extra sweetness, or even white chocolate for a completely different twist. High-quality chocolate chips will result in a smoother, more decadent fudge.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon. A touch of vanilla extract enhances the chocolate flavor, adding depth and warmth to the fudge. Pure vanilla extract is recommended for the best flavor, but imitation vanilla can also be used in a pinch.

Instructions

Making this incredibly easy 3-Ingredient Fudge is a breeze. Follow these simple steps for a guaranteed sweet success:

1. Prepare Your Pan: Start by lining an 8×8 inch square baking dish with parchment paper. Leave an overhang on the sides to make it easy to lift the fudge out once it’s set. This step is crucial to prevent sticking and ensure clean removal of your fudge. You can lightly grease the parchment paper with butter or cooking spray if you are extra cautious about sticking, although it’s generally not necessary. Set the prepared pan aside.
2. Combine Chocolate Chips and Sweetened Condensed Milk: In a medium-sized, microwave-safe bowl, combine the 2 cups of chocolate chips and the entire 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk. Ensure the chocolate chips are somewhat evenly distributed within the condensed milk for even melting. Using a microwave-safe bowl is essential for this method. If you prefer using a stovetop, you can use a heavy-bottomed saucepan instead.
3. Microwave in Intervals: Microwave the mixture on medium power (or 50% power) for 30 seconds at a time. After each 30-second interval, remove the bowl from the microwave and stir the mixture thoroughly. This is important to prevent the chocolate from burning. Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate chips are almost completely melted. This usually takes about 1 to 2 minutes total, but microwave wattages can vary, so keep a close eye on it.
4. Stir Until Smooth: Once the chocolate chips are mostly melted, continue stirring the mixture vigorously until it is completely smooth and glossy. There should be no visible chunks of chocolate remaining. The heat from the melted chocolate and condensed milk will melt any remaining pieces as you stir. The mixture should be thick and easily pourable. If you are using a stovetop, melt over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth. Be careful not to overheat the mixture on the stovetop, as this can cause the chocolate to seize.
5. Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Incorporate it evenly throughout the fudge mixture. The vanilla extract enhances the chocolate flavor and adds a subtle aromatic note. You can add other extracts at this stage as well, such as peppermint extract for a holiday twist or almond extract for a nutty flavor.
6. Pour into Prepared Pan: Pour the smooth fudge mixture into the parchment-lined 8×8 inch baking dish. Use a spatula to spread the fudge evenly across the bottom of the pan, ensuring it reaches all corners. A uniform thickness will ensure even setting and consistent texture throughout the fudge.
7. Chill to Set: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to firm up completely. Chilling is essential for the fudge to set properly and achieve its signature firm yet chewy texture. The longer it chills, the firmer it will become. If you are in a hurry, you can try chilling it in the freezer for about an hour, but be careful not to freeze it solid.
8. Cut and Serve: Once the fudge is firm, lift it out of the baking dish using the parchment paper overhang. Place it on a cutting board and cut it into squares. The size of the squares is up to you – smaller squares for bite-sized treats or larger squares for a more substantial dessert. A warm, damp knife can help make cleaner cuts. Serve immediately and enjoy your incredibly easy and delicious 3-Ingredient Fudge! Store any leftover fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Nutrition Facts

(Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes. This is based on an estimated 16 servings from an 8×8 inch pan using semi-sweet chocolate chips and standard sweetened condensed milk.)

• Servings: Approximately 16 squares
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 250 calories. This is a decadent treat, so moderation is key! The calories primarily come from the sugar and fat content of the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk.
• Fat: Approximately 15 grams per serving. The majority of the fat comes from the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. While some fats are necessary for a balanced diet, it’s important to be mindful of the total fat intake, especially from saturated fats.
• Sugar: Approximately 30 grams per serving. This fudge is a sweet treat, and the sugar content reflects that. Much of the sugar comes from the sweetened condensed milk and chocolate chips. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
• Saturated Fat: Approximately 9 grams per serving. Saturated fat is primarily from the chocolate and dairy in the sweetened condensed milk. It’s recommended to limit saturated fat intake as part of a heart-healthy diet.

Preparation Time

• Active Prep Time: 10 minutes. This recipe is incredibly quick to assemble. The majority of the time is spent melting the chocolate and stirring the ingredients together.
• Chill Time: Minimum 2 hours (or overnight). While the active prep is short, the fudge requires significant chilling time to set properly. Plan ahead to allow for adequate chilling before you intend to serve it. This hands-off time allows the fudge to develop its perfect texture.

How to Serve

This versatile 3-Ingredient Fudge can be served in countless delicious ways. Here are some ideas to elevate your fudge experience:

• Classic Squares: The simplest and most traditional way to serve fudge is cut into squares. Vary the size of the squares depending on your preference and occasion. Small squares are perfect for parties or dessert platters, while larger squares are great for individual servings.
• With a Sprinkle of Sea Salt: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the fudge just before serving enhances the chocolate flavor and adds a delightful salty-sweet contrast. The sea salt also adds a touch of elegance to the presentation.
• Alongside Ice Cream: Serve warm or chilled fudge squares alongside a scoop of your favorite ice cream. Vanilla, chocolate, or even coffee ice cream pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate fudge. The combination of warm fudge and cold ice cream is a classic dessert pairing.
• With Hot Coffee or Cocoa: A square of fudge is the perfect complement to a hot beverage. Enjoy it with a cup of coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up or with hot cocoa for a cozy evening treat. The richness of the fudge balances the bitterness of coffee and enhances the warmth of cocoa.
• As Part of a Dessert Platter: Include fudge squares as part of a larger dessert platter featuring other sweets like cookies, brownies, and fruit. Fudge adds a rich and decadent element to a platter, offering variety and satisfying different sweet cravings.
• Garnished with Nuts or Sprinkles: Before the fudge sets in the refrigerator, you can press chopped nuts (like walnuts, pecans, or almonds) or colorful sprinkles into the top for added texture and visual appeal. This is a great way to customize the fudge for different occasions or holidays.
• Drizzled with Caramel or Chocolate Sauce: Take your fudge to the next level by drizzling it with caramel sauce, chocolate sauce, or both! The extra sauce adds another layer of sweetness and flavor, making it even more indulgent.
• Served with Fresh Berries: The richness of the fudge is beautifully balanced by the tartness of fresh berries like raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries. Serve a few berries alongside each fudge square for a refreshing and visually appealing dessert.

Additional Tips for Perfect 3-Ingredient Fudge

To ensure your 3-Ingredient Fudge turns out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind:

1. Use Quality Chocolate: While this recipe is simple, the quality of your chocolate chips will significantly impact the final flavor. Opt for good quality chocolate chips for a richer, more decadent fudge. Consider using brands known for their chocolate quality, or even using chopped baking chocolate instead of chips for a smoother melt and deeper flavor.
2. Don’t Overheat the Chocolate: Microwaving in short intervals and stirring frequently is crucial to prevent the chocolate from burning or seizing. Overheated chocolate can become grainy and lose its smooth texture. Patience is key when melting chocolate – low and slow is the way to go. If using a stovetop, maintain a very low heat and stir constantly.
3. Ensure Sweetened Condensed Milk is Smooth: Before combining it with the chocolate, make sure your sweetened condensed milk is smooth and lump-free. If it seems a bit thick or separated, you can gently stir it in the can before measuring or microwaving it briefly on low power to loosen it up.
4. Customize with Extracts and Flavors: Vanilla extract is classic, but don’t be afraid to experiment! Try adding other extracts like peppermint extract for a festive holiday fudge, almond extract for a nutty flavor, or even a touch of citrus extract like orange or lemon for a brighter note. You can also incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
5. Add Mix-Ins for Texture and Flavor: While it’s delicious as is, you can add mix-ins to customize your fudge. Stir in chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds), dried fruit (cranberries, cherries), toffee bits, mini marshmallows, or even crushed cookies (Oreo, graham crackers) after the fudge is melted and smooth. Fold them in gently just before pouring the fudge into the pan.
6. Adjust Sweetness Levels: If you prefer a less sweet fudge, you can use dark chocolate chips, which have a lower sugar content than semi-sweet or milk chocolate. Alternatively, you can use a combination of semi-sweet and dark chocolate chips to balance the sweetness. You can also experiment with using slightly less sweetened condensed milk, but be mindful that this might affect the texture.
7. For a Glossier Finish: For an extra glossy finish to your fudge, you can stir in a tablespoon of butter or coconut oil along with the vanilla extract. This adds a bit of shine and richness to the fudge. Make sure the butter or coconut oil is completely melted and incorporated into the smooth fudge mixture.
8. Proper Storage is Key: Store your 3-Ingredient Fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to a week, and some even say it tastes even better after a day or two as the flavors meld together. For longer storage, you can freeze fudge for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About 3-Ingredient Fudge

Here are some common questions people ask about making 3-Ingredient Fudge:

Q1: Can I use evaporated milk instead of sweetened condensed milk?

A: No, you absolutely cannot substitute evaporated milk for sweetened condensed milk in this recipe. Sweetened condensed milk is crucial for the fudge’s texture and sweetness. It’s thick, sticky, and sugary, providing the necessary binding and sweetening. Evaporated milk is unsweetened and much thinner, and using it will result in a runny, non-setting mess that is not fudge. Always ensure you are using sweetened condensed milk.

Q2: What kind of chocolate chips work best for this recipe?

A: Semi-sweet chocolate chips are the classic choice for a traditional fudge flavor, offering a good balance of sweetness and chocolate intensity. However, you can definitely experiment! Dark chocolate chips will result in a richer, less sweet fudge. Milk chocolate chips will create a sweeter, milder fudge. White chocolate chips will make a completely different, vanilla-flavored fudge. High-quality chocolate chips, regardless of the type, will generally yield a smoother, more flavorful fudge.

Q3: My fudge is too soft and didn’t set properly. What did I do wrong?

A: The most common reason for fudge not setting is not chilling it for long enough. Ensure you chill it for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, in the refrigerator. If it’s still too soft after sufficient chilling, it could be due to using too little chocolate chips or overheating the mixture. Make sure you are using the correct ratio of ingredients and melting the chocolate gently in intervals. If you used a stovetop, ensure the heat was low and you didn’t overheat the mixture.

Q4: Can I make this fudge without a microwave?

A: Yes, absolutely! You can easily make this fudge on the stovetop. Simply combine the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Melt over very low heat, stirring constantly until smooth. Be extra careful not to overheat or burn the chocolate on the stovetop. Once smooth, proceed with the recipe as instructed, adding vanilla extract and pouring into the prepared pan to chill.

Q5: How long does this 3-Ingredient Fudge last?

A: Stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this fudge will last for up to a week. In fact, many people find that the flavor and texture even improve slightly after a day or two in the fridge. For longer storage, you can freeze fudge for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Q6: Can I double or triple this recipe?

A: Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe to make a larger batch. Simply multiply all the ingredient quantities accordingly. For a doubled recipe, use a 9×13 inch baking dish. For a tripled recipe, you might need to use two 8×8 inch dishes or a very large baking dish. Keep in mind that larger batches might require slightly longer chilling times to set completely.

Q7: Can I add nuts to this fudge?

A: Absolutely! Adding nuts is a popular and delicious way to customize this fudge. Chopped walnuts, pecans, almonds, or even peanuts work wonderfully. Stir in about 1/2 to 1 cup of chopped nuts after the fudge mixture is melted and smooth, just before pouring it into the prepared pan. You can also press some extra nuts on top for decoration.

Q8: Is this recipe gluten-free?

A: Yes, as written, this 3-Ingredient Fudge recipe is naturally gluten-free. The ingredients – sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract – do not contain gluten. However, always double-check the labels of your specific chocolate chips and vanilla extract to ensure they are certified gluten-free if you are making this for someone with a strict gluten-free diet, as some brands may have trace amounts of gluten due to manufacturing processes. If adding mix-ins, be sure those are also gluten-free if needed.

Print