๐ซ Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge
Makes 25+ squares | Prep: 5 min | Set: 1–2 hrs | Total: ~2 hrs (mostly hands-off)
๐ Ingredients
3 cups (18 oz / 510g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 (14 oz / 397g) can sweetened condensed milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ tsp salt (enhances flavor — don’t skip!)
Optional mix-ins:
½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
½ cup mini marshmallows (for rocky road vibes)
½ tsp peppermint extract + crushed candy canes (holiday version!)
Swirl of peanut butter or caramel
๐ซ Pro Tip: Use high-quality chocolate chips for the smoothest texture.
๐ฉ๐ณ Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Line the Pan
Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or foil (for easy lifting).
Lightly grease if needed.
2️⃣ Melt the Chocolate & Milk
Option A: Microwave (Fastest!)
In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine:
Chocolate chips
Sweetened condensed milk
Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth (~2–3 mins total).
Option B: Stovetop (Classic Control)
In a saucepan over low heat, stir chocolate chips and condensed milk until melted and glossy (~4–5 mins). Don’t let it boil!
3️⃣ Finish the Mix
Remove from heat.
Stir in vanilla, salt, and any mix-ins (nuts, marshmallows, etc.).
4️⃣ Pour & Smooth
Pour mixture into prepared pan.
Spread evenly with a spatula.
Optional: Sprinkle top with flaky sea salt or extra chocolate chips.
5️⃣ Chill Until Firm
Refrigerate 1–2 hours, until completely set.
For clean cuts: Use a warm knife (dipped in hot water, wiped dry).
6️⃣ Slice & Serve
Lift slab out using parchment overhang.
Cut into small squares.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
๐ฝ️ Serving Ideas:
As holiday gifts in decorative tins
With coffee or tea
Melted over ice cream for fudge sundae magic
๐ Flavor Variations & Pro Hacks
๐ฅ Peanut Butter Fudge: Swirl in ½ cup creamy peanut butter before chilling
๐ Strawberry Swirl: Add freeze-dried strawberries + white chocolate layer
๐ช Cookies & Cream: Fold in crushed Oreos
๐ฅฅ Coconut Dream: Add ½ cup toasted coconut flakes
❄️ Freeze It! Freeze slices up to 3 months — thaw at room temp for 10 mins
๐ง Why This Works So Well
Sweetened condensed milk = sugar + dairy in one thick, creamy base — no cooking sugar syrup!
Low moisture + fat balance = smooth texture without graininess
Quick melting = less chance of scorching
It’s not cheating — it’s smart Southern shortcuts. ✨
❤️ Final Thought: Sometimes, the Best Things Are Made With Love (and 5 Minutes)
You don’t need a candy shop or decades of experience to make something truly special.
Just good chocolate, a little patience, and a heart full of holiday joy.
This Paula Deen 5-Minute Fudge proves that great treats don’t have to be complicated — they just have to taste like they came from someone who loves you.
So tie on your apron, grab that can of sweetened milk, and let your kitchen fill with the scent of chocolate and comfort.
Because the holidays aren’t complete without a little sweetness…
And a lot of fudge. ๐