Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge: The Easiest, Creamiest Fudge Recipe Ever!
Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge: The Easiest, Creamiest Fudge Recipe Ever!
Introduction
Is there anything more comforting than the taste of homemade fudge? The rich, smooth chocolate melting in your mouth with a touch of sweetness and creaminess that’s simply irresistible? Well, Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge recipe takes all that indulgence and wraps it in the perfect, no-fuss package.
If you’ve ever dreamed of creating homemade fudge but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, this recipe is for you. With just a handful of ingredients and five minutes of cook time, you’ll have a delicious, homemade treat that’ll rival anything you’d find in a candy shop.
This recipe is one of those nostalgic gems—quick, simple, and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for busy holidays, family get-togethers, or when you just need something sweet in a hurry. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone who’s just learning to cook, this 5-minute fudge will make you feel like a pro. And the best part? It’s guaranteed to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth.
Ready to make your kitchen smell like a candy wonderland? Let’s dive into this easy fudge recipe and see how to make the most decadent, melt-in-your-mouth fudge in no time!
Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge
Ingredients:
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1 2/3 cups white sugar
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2/3 cup evaporated milk
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1 tablespoon unsalted butter
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1 (6 ounce) package milk chocolate chips
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16 large marshmallows
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1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
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1 cup chopped nuts
Directions:
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Combine sugar, milk, butter, and salt in a medium-sized saucepan. Bring to a boil, cook for 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
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Add in chocolate chips; cook until melted.
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Remove from heat; stir in marshmallows, vanilla, and nuts. Mix well.
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Pour into an 8-inch pan.
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Cool, then cut into squares.
Additional Content
Cooking Tips & Possible Substitutions:
Making fudge is one of those moments when you can truly get creative with your ingredients. While Paula Deen’s version is perfect as is, here are a few tweaks you can try if you want to customize your fudge even more.
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Chocolate: While this recipe calls for milk chocolate chips, feel free to swap them out for dark chocolate or even white chocolate chips if that’s more your style. Dark chocolate will give the fudge a slightly richer flavor, while white chocolate will make it even creamier.
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Nuts: Paula’s recipe includes chopped nuts, but you can use whatever type you prefer. Walnuts, pecans, and almonds are great choices, but feel free to leave them out for a nut-free version or swap them for something like crushed toffee or caramel bits for a different twist.
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Marshmallows: For an extra decadent texture, try using mini marshmallows instead of large ones. This will help them dissolve more evenly into the fudge.
Serving Ideas and When to Enjoy It:
This fudge is so versatile, it can be enjoyed any time of year. Here are a few ideas for when and how to serve it:
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Holiday Treat: It’s a fantastic addition to any holiday spread, perfect for Christmas or Thanksgiving. You can even package it up in cute gift boxes for friends and family.
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After-Dinner Dessert: Serve it as an after-dinner treat with coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy, indulgent moment.
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Snack: Of course, it’s perfect for those days when you just need something sweet and satisfying. You can even keep it in the fridge for a quick bite whenever the mood strikes!
Storage and Freezing Tips:
Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep it fresh for a longer period, you can refrigerate it. Simply wrap the fudge in plastic wrap and place it in a container—this will keep it nice and firm.
You can also freeze this fudge if you want to save some for later. Just make sure it’s well-wrapped in plastic wrap and then stored in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours.
Short FAQ:
1. Can I make this fudge ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely! This fudge can be made a day or two ahead of time and stored in an airtight container. It actually tastes even better after it has set for a little while, allowing all those flavors to meld together.
2. Can I use sweetened condensed milk instead of evaporated milk?
We recommend using evaporated milk as specified in the recipe for the best texture, but sweetened condensed milk could work in a pinch. Keep in mind that it will make the fudge a bit sweeter, so you might want to reduce the sugar slightly.
3. Can I make this fudge without nuts?
Yes, you can easily leave out the nuts for a nut-free version. The fudge will still be rich and delicious without them.
4. How do I know when my fudge is ready to pour into the pan?
The key is to cook the mixture for exactly 5 minutes after it begins to boil. Make sure you stir constantly to prevent burning, and once the 5 minutes are up, remove it from the heat immediately. It should have a thick, smooth consistency, perfect for pouring into the pan.
