5-Minute Chocolate Fudge Delight

This quick chocolate fudge recipe is my answer for anyone needing a delicious homemade treat without hours in the kitchen. Rich and velvety chocolate meets buttery sweetness, while crunchy pecans make every bite special. Perfect for holidays, easy gifts or sweet cravings.

I first whipped this up when last-minute guests were on their way over. Now, I keep these ingredients on hand so fudge is never far from reach.

Ingredients

• Dark chocolate chips: give the fudge its deep chocolate flavor use a higher percent cocoa for a richer taste and check for glossy chips free from any white streaks which can mean old chocolate
• Sweetened condensed milk: provides the creamy sweetness make sure yours is thick and not watery for the best texture
• Butter: adds richness and smoothness use real unsalted butter not margarine for the creamiest result
• Vanilla extract: enhances the overall flavor a pure extract is worth it here for the warmest background note
• Pecans: add a nutty crunch taste a couple before using and choose pieces that look plump and fresh for peak flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Melt the Base:

Combine chocolate chips sweetened condensed milk and butter in a medium glass bowl Heat the bowl in the microwave for ninety seconds Stir until everything comes together smoothly If you see lumps microwave for another fifteen seconds and stir again Your mixture should be glossy and uniform

Flavor It Up:

Add vanilla extract directly into the melted mixture Stir until the vanilla is fully blended in This little step perfumes the whole batch

Mix in the Nuts:

Pour in one cup of chopped pecans Fold them in so they are evenly distributed every bite should get a good mix of crunchy pecan and creamy fudge

Shape and Top:

Line a loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal Scoop the fudge mixture into the pan and spread it out with a spatula until it is about one inch thick Sprinkle the remaining chopped pecans evenly over the top Press them lightly so they stick

Chill and Slice:

Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least four hours so the fudge can firm up Once cold remove from the pan and peel away parchment Slice into one inch squares and try to resist eating them all at once

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My favorite part is the first slice through the chilled fudge and seeing the shiny chocolate with bites of pecan My kids always race to claim the corner pieces and it has become a sweet little household tradition

Storage Tips

This fudge keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to seven days If you need to store longer wrap the squares and freeze for up to two months Let thaw in the fridge before serving Cold fudge tastes rich and dense so I prefer to slice and let it sit a few minutes at room temperature

Ingredient Substitutions

Walnuts or almonds can swap in for pecans or leave nuts out altogether for smooth fudge No sweetened condensed milk Try a homemade version using milk and sugar in a pinch If you love milk chocolate that works too but go for a high quality bar for best results

Serving Suggestions

Serve on a festive dessert tray paired with fresh berries or lightly salted pretzels This fudge makes a beautiful gift when packed in parchment and tied with string I sometimes scatter extra sea salt flakes over the top for a gourmet twist

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Sweet Origins

Fudge hails from late nineteenth century America when confectioners first created this indulgent treat out of sugar butter and milk The creamy texture and ease of mixing new flavors are why it remains a beloved classic today For me a fresh batch always brings back memories of winter holidays at home

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate chips?

Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips to create a sweeter, milder fudge. Adjust sweetness according to your preference.

→ Is there an alternative to using a microwave for melting?

Absolutely. You can melt chocolate, condensed milk, and butter together using a double boiler over gentle heat for a smooth mixture.

→ How should I store the finished chocolate fudge?

Store the chocolate fudge squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week to maintain freshness and texture.

→ Can I skip the pecans or use a different nut?

Feel free to omit the pecans or swap in walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts according to your taste or dietary needs.

→ How do I achieve clean slices without crumbling?

Use a sharp knife and wipe blade between cuts. Chilling the fudge well before slicing also helps maintain clean edges.