Paula Deen’s Famous Fudge Recipe: Rich, Sweet & Homemade Magic

Chocolate lovers rejoice over this 5-minute fudge recipe by Paula Deen that transforms dessert preparation into a delightful breeze.

Sweet tooths will adore how quickly this decadent treat comes together with minimal effort.

The magic happens in just moments, melding rich ingredients into a creamy, indulgent confection.

You’ll be amazed at how simple pantry staples can create such an extraordinary dessert.

Each bite promises pure, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate bliss that feels like a luxurious indulgence.

Gather your ingredients and prepare to impress everyone with this effortless, mouthwatering fudge that tastes like it took hours to make.

Why Five Minute Fudge Is So Handy

• Conquer Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer: This spectacular bread ring transforms a classic dip into a stunning party centerpiece that guarantees jaw-dropping reactions from guests.
• Master Stress-Free Preparation: With simple steps and minimal hands-on cooking, even novice bakers can create a restaurant-quality dish that looks impressively complicated.
• Customize Your Flavor Adventure: Easily adjust spice levels, swap cheese types, or add extra herbs to make this recipe uniquely yours while maintaining its delicious core concept.
• Celebrate Versatile Dining Moments: Perfect for game day gatherings, potlucks, family brunches, or casual dinner parties where people love interactive and shareable food experiences.

Five Minute Fudge Ingredient Essentials

• Evaporated Milk: A rich and creamy dairy product that helps create a smooth and luxurious fudge texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Provides the primary sweetness and helps create the fudge's classic consistency.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness of the fudge.

• Mini Marshmallows: Adds extra creaminess and helps create a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Chocolate Chips: Delivers rich chocolate flavor and contributes to the fudge's glossy appearance.
• Vanilla Extract: Provides a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the chocolate.

• Pecans: Adds a delightful nutty crunch and provides a contrasting texture to the smooth fudge.

• Parchment Paper or Foil: Ensures easy removal of the fudge from the pan and helps with clean cutting.

Steps for Making Paula Deen’s Fudge Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Canvas

Grab your 8×8-inch baking pan and create a smooth liner using parchment paper or aluminum foil. Make sure the edges hang over the sides so you can easily lift out your delicious creation later.

Step 2: Create the Sweet Base

• Evaporated milk
• Granulated sugar
• Salt

Bring this delightful mixture to a rolling boil over medium heat. Stir continuously like you’re stirring up something magical.

Keep stirring and cooking for about 45 minutes until the mixture transforms into a smooth, bubbling wonder.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolatey Goodness

• Mini marshmallows
• Chocolate chips
• Vanilla extract

Stir with passion until everything melts into a glossy, irresistible pool of sweetness.

Step 4: Add Some Nutty Crunch

Gently fold in chopped pecans, distributing them evenly throughout the fudge mixture. These little nuggets will add a delightful texture to your treat.

Step 5: Shape and Set the Fudge

Pour the mixture into your prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, creating a smooth, tempting surface.

Let the fudge sit at room temperature for about 2 hours, or speed things up by popping it in the refrigerator.

Step 6: Slice and Celebrate

Once the fudge is firm, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper edges.

Slice into perfect little squares and get ready to enjoy a bite of pure bliss.

Notes for Quick Fudge That’s Just Right

• Constant stirring prevents scorching and ensures a smooth, creamy fudge texture without burning the sugar mixture.
• Use medium heat and watch carefully to achieve the perfect caramelization without overheating the ingredients.
• Stir continuously during the cooking process to break down sugar crystals and create a silky-smooth fudge consistency.
• Refrigerate the fudge for easier slicing and cleaner, more precise squares that hold their shape beautifully.
• Replace pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds, or add dried fruit for a personalized touch to this classic treat.

Creative Swaps for Five Minute Fudge Lovers

• Nutty Chocolate Bliss: Replace pecans with almonds, walnuts, or macadamia nuts for a different nutty flavor profile.
• Dark Chocolate Dream: Swap milk chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for a richer, more intense chocolate experience.
• Salted Caramel Crunch: Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top and mix in caramel chips for a sweet and salty combination.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut milk instead of evaporated milk and dairy-free chocolate chips to create a vegan-friendly version of the fudge.

Sips and Treats With Paula Deen’s Fudge

• Pair Sweet Sips: Serve rich fudge alongside a creamy vanilla latte or smooth Irish coffee to complement the chocolate's intensity.
• Crunch with Contrast: Select crisp almond biscotti or buttery shortbread cookies that provide delightful textural balance against the soft fudge.
• Wine Elegance: Choose a port wine or dessert sherry with deep caramel notes that harmonize perfectly with the fudge's sweet profile.
• Nutty Beverage Match: Brew a hazelnut-infused coffee or almond milk drink that echoes the pecan undertones in the fudge.

Storing Five Minute Fudge for Future Snacking

• Wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. Keep refrigerated for up to 2 weeks, maintaining its rich, creamy texture and preventing moisture absorption.
• Seal the fudge in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 3 months without losing its delectable flavor or smooth consistency.
• Store in a cool, dry place in an airtight container for 3-5 days. Avoid direct sunlight and heat to prevent melting or texture changes.
• Remove frozen fudge from the freezer and let it slowly defrost in the refrigerator overnight. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Yes, you can swap milk, dark, or semi-sweet chocolate chips based on your preference. Each type will give a slightly different flavor profile to the fudge.

• Do I need a candy thermometer for this recipe?

No, you don’t need a candy thermometer. The recipe relies on consistent stirring and timing to achieve the right consistency.

• How do I know when the fudge mixture is ready?

Look for a smooth, glossy texture when you remove the saucepan from heat. The mixture should be well combined and have a shiny appearance without any lumps.

• Can I skip the pecans?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of nuts or have allergies, you can simply omit the pecans without affecting the overall recipe’s success.

Paula Deens 5-Minute Fudge Recipe

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4.7 from 17 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 16 1x

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Description

Dive into Paula Deen’s 5-minute fudge, a sinful chocolate escape that melts hearts with minimal effort. Quick, rich, and irresistibly smooth, this dessert promises pure indulgence without complex techniques.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chocolate Base:

• 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
• 2/3 cup evaporated milk

Additional Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Nuts:

• 1 cup chopped pecans

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Instructions

1. Prepare a baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring edges extend over the sides for effortless fudge extraction.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine evaporated milk, granulated sugar, and salt, creating a sweet base mixture.
3. Heat the mixture over medium temperature, stirring continuously to prevent scorching, and bring to a rolling boil.
4. Maintain a consistent boil for approximately 45 minutes, stirring vigilantly to ensure smooth texture and prevent burning.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat source immediately after cooking duration.
6. Swiftly incorporate mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract, whisking until the mixture achieves a glossy, uniform consistency.
7. Gently fold chopped pecans throughout the fudge, ensuring even distribution of nutty elements.
8. Transfer the molten fudge into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread evenly and create a smooth surface.
9. Allow the fudge to rest at room temperature for roughly 2 hours, or expedite setting by refrigerating until completely firm.
10. Utilize parchment paper overhangs to carefully extract the fudge from the pan.
11. Slice into precise squares and serve at room temperature for optimal texture and flavor.

Notes

• Customize the fudge by swapping pecans with other nuts like almonds or walnuts for a different flavor profile.
• Create a dairy-free version by using coconut milk instead of evaporated milk and dairy-free chocolate chips.
• Prevent sugar crystallization by using a candy thermometer and ensuring consistent stirring during the cooking process.
• Enhance flavor by adding a pinch of sea salt or a splash of bourbon to the mixture for a gourmet twist.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 16
• Calories: 186
• Sugar: 23 g
• Sodium: 52 mg
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 26 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 4 mg