Famous Fudge Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a treat that’s as rich, chocolatey, and utterly irresistible as it is simple to make, the Famous Fudge Recipe is your new best friend. With its silky-smooth texture and deeply satisfying flavor, this old-school classic is a crowd-pleaser at any gathering, bake sale, or cozy night in. It transforms just a handful of everyday pantry staples into a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece—and don’t be surprised if it disappears in a flash!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of the Famous Fudge Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient brings something special — from melt-in-your-mouth creaminess to a robust chocolate punch, and even a subtle hint of crunch. Here’s how it all comes together:

• Granulated Sugar (1 1/2 cups): The sweet backbone that gives fudge its signature smoothness.
• Evaporated Milk (2/3 cup): This adds richness and helps achieve that dreamy, creamy texture.
• Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons): A touch of butter makes the fudge irresistibly velvety.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just a pinch elevates all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Mini Marshmallows (2 cups): These melt seamlessly, giving your fudge that perfect, pillowy chew.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (1 1/2 cups): The heart of the fudge—choose quality chips for a richer chocolate taste.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): A splash of vanilla rounds out the flavors and adds warmth.
• Chopped Nuts (1/2 cup, optional): For that satisfying crunch and an extra layer of flavor—totally up to you!

How to Make Famous Fudge Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan

Before you dive into the chocolatey action, line an 8-inch square baking pan with foil or parchment paper, leaving enough overhang to lift your fudge out later. Lightly grease the lining for easy, fuss-free removal—trust me, this simple prep step makes slicing and serving a total breeze.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

Grab a heavy-bottomed saucepan and toss in your sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and salt. Set the heat to medium and stir constantly with a trusty wooden spoon or spatula. Giving it your undivided attention at this stage keeps everything silky and prevents scorching, which is key to the Famous Fudge Recipe’s legendary texture.

Step 3: Boil the Mixture

Once things start bubbling and you hit a full rolling boil, keep stirring! Let the mixture gently boil for 4-5 minutes. Your kitchen will fill with the most delicious aroma, and you’ll notice the mixture thickening up ever so slightly.

Step 4: Add Marshmallows and Chocolate Chips

Take the pot off the heat, then quickly stir in your mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract. Mix it all up; watch as everything melts together into a glossy, unified fudge base. This is where the magic happens in the Famous Fudge Recipe!

Step 5: Add Nuts (Optional)

If you’re a fan of a little crunch, gently fold in the chopped nuts now. Pecans, walnuts, or even almonds work beautifully, but the fudge will be just as delicious without them.

Step 6: Pour into Pan

Working quickly, pour the luscious fudge mixture into your lined pan. Spread it out evenly with a spatula, making sure you reach all the corners for perfectly uniform pieces later on.

Step 7: Cool and Set

Now comes the hard part—waiting! Let your fudge cool at room temperature for about two hours, or speed things up by popping it in the fridge for an hour. Either way, don’t rush it; a proper set guarantees those clean, picture-perfect squares.

Step 8: Cut and Serve

Once your fudge is fully set, lift it out of the pan using the foil or parchment handles. With a sharp knife (run under hot water for cleaner cuts), slice into bite-sized squares and get ready for rave reviews!

How to Serve Famous Fudge Recipe

Garnishes

A flourish of garnishes takes your fudge from homemade to truly show-stopping. Sprinkle a dusting of flaky sea salt to amplify the chocolate or add a few extra chopped nuts for visual appeal and texture. Even a drizzle of white chocolate or a scattering of edible gold stars can make your Famous Fudge Recipe stand out at the dessert table!

Side Dishes

Fudge is wonderful on its own, but it also plays perfectly with others. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, fresh berries, or alongside a cup of strong coffee for a decadent dessert platter. The richness of fudge shines even brighter when it’s contrasted with something cool, tart, or creamy.

Creative Ways to Present

The Famous Fudge Recipe is all about sharing, so consider packaging pieces in decorative tins for gifts or arranging squares in cupcake liners on a pretty tray. You can also cut the fudge into fun shapes using cookie cutters, or drizzle with caramel for an elegant twist. The possibilities are endless!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cut, keep your fudge fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. Stack pieces with wax or parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. It will stay delightful for up to a week—if it lasts that long!

Freezing

If you want to savor your Famous Fudge Recipe over time, freezing is a perfect option. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, place in a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to indulge.

Reheating

Fudge is best enjoyed at room temperature; if yours is a bit too firm from the fridge or freezer, just let it sit out for 10-15 minutes. Resist the urge to microwave—it can melt unevenly and lose that signature texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?

Absolutely! Just chop larger marshmallows into smaller bits for easier melting. The Famous Fudge Recipe is flexible like that, so don’t stress if you only have the regular size on hand.

What type of chocolate chips work best?

Semi-sweet chocolate chips are classic, giving you just the right amount of rich flavor and sweetness. However, feel free to experiment—dark chocolate chips will yield a more intense fudge, while milk chocolate makes it extra sweet.

Is it necessary to use a candy thermometer?

No candy thermometer required for the Famous Fudge Recipe! Just pay close attention to the rolling boil and timing, and you’ll achieve perfectly creamy results every time.

Can I double the Famous Fudge Recipe?

You sure can—just use a 9 x 13-inch pan and make sure your saucepan is large enough for the bigger batch. Keep an eye on boiling time; it may need a minute more to reach the right consistency.

How can I avoid grainy fudge?

Consistent stirring, especially during boiling, is crucial for a smooth finish. Also, be sure that the sugar dissolves completely before the mixture boils. This attention to detail is what makes the Famous Fudge Recipe famous!

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a foolproof, decadent treat to make memories (and maybe start a new tradition), I encourage you to try the Famous Fudge Recipe. Its rich flavor, velvety texture, and effortless prep make it a hit every single time—one bite, and you’ll understand why it’s famous!

Print