Name: Mom’s Easy Fudge Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 16 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional); Pinch of salt

Sometimes, the simplest treats are truly the best! Mom's Easy Fudge Recipe is absolutely dreamy: rich, velvety, and packed with deep chocolate flavor. Every bite melts in your mouth, delivering pure, nostalgic comfort.

The magic? This classic fudge comes together in a snap, using just a handful of pantry staples. No candy thermometer, no complicated steps-just pure, effortless chocolate bliss!

Perfect for holiday gifts, potlucks, or whenever your sweet tooth strikes. This recipe is a well-loved family tradition in our house, and I know it'll earn a spot in yours too!

Chocolate squares of creamy fudge, cut and stacked on a white plate.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Super simple and foolproof, even for beginners!
Delivers rich, creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture every time
Uses only five easy-to-find ingredients
Perfect for parties, edible gifts, or a quick chocolate fix

Key Ingredients for Mom's Easy Fudge Recipe

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips

The star of the show! Semi-sweet chocolate chips provide that classic, bittersweet flavor and lush, silky texture. For best results, choose a quality brand that melts smoothly. Dark or milk chocolate chips also work, depending on your taste preference, but semi-sweet strikes the perfect balance of rich and sweet.

Sweetened Condensed Milk

This magic ingredient creates the fudge's signature creamy texture and binds everything together. Make sure to use sweetened condensed milk, not evaporated milk. You can opt for fat-free versions, but full-fat delivers the richest results.

Butter

Just a little butter brings an extra richness and glossy finish to the fudge. Salted butter is wonderful if you like a hint of a salty bite; otherwise, unsalted lets the chocolate flavor shine. If you only have margarine, it'll work, but real butter gives superior flavor.

Pure Vanilla Extract

A dash of vanilla rounds out the flavors and deepens the chocolate notes beautifully. Use pure vanilla extract (not imitation) if possible. For a twist, you could try almond extract, but vanilla is the classic pairing.

Chopped Nuts (Optional)

Walnuts or pecans add a delicious crunch and classic finishing touch. If you don't like nuts, simply leave them out for extra-smooth fudge. Or, swap in mini marshmallows or candy pieces for a fun variation.

Instructions for Mom's Easy Fudge Recipe

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Prepare Your Pan

Start by lining an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the lining if you want extra-smooth release.

Melt the Chocolate Mixture

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir constantly with a rubber spatula or wooden spoon until everything is fully melted and smooth, about 5 to 7 minutes. Be gentle with the heat-low and slow gives the creamiest results!

Add Vanilla and Nuts

Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt (if using salted butter, you can skip the salt). Fold in the chopped nuts, if you're using them, until evenly distributed.

Spread and Set the Fudge

Pour the warm fudge mixture into your prepared pan. Use a spatula to evenly spread it out, getting it into all the corners. For an extra pretty finish, sprinkle a few reserved nuts on top.

Chill and Slice

Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours, or until completely firm. Once set, lift it out of the pan using the parchment overhang and cut it into 1-inch squares. Wipe your knife between cuts for super-clean edges!

Recipe Variations

Go Nut-Free

Skip the nuts for a silky smooth, nut-free classic fudge. You can even swirl in mini marshmallows or M&Ms for a fun, kid-friendly twist!

Peanut Butter Swirl

Once the fudge mixture is in the pan, drop spoonfuls of peanut butter on top and gently swirl with a knife for a chocolate-peanut butter delight.

Use White or Dark Chocolate

Swap semi-sweet chips for white chocolate or dark chocolate to change the flavor profile. White chocolate creates a super-sweet, creamy fudge-add dried cranberries or pistachios for color.

Vegan or Dairy-Free Fudge

Substitute dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut condensed milk for a vegan-friendly treat that's just as addictive. Use coconut oil in place of butter if needed.

Fun Mix-Ins

Stir in crushed peppermint candies, toffee bits, or dried fruit for festive pops of flavor and color!

Serving Suggestions

Fudge pairs beautifully with coffee, hot cocoa, or even a glass of milk. For a showstopping dessert platter, serve alongside other bite-sized treats like cookies or candied nuts. Garnish each square with a sprinkle of sea salt or drizzle of melted chocolate for an extra-special touch.

Storage and Reheating

Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks for extra freshness. For soft fudge, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating. Fudge also freezes beautifully-wrap pieces tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mom's Easy Fudge Recipe (FAQ)

Q: Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?

A: Yes! Milk chocolate will make a sweeter, creamier fudge. Just swap the same amount and enjoy a milder chocolate flavor.

Q: My fudge turned out too soft. What went wrong?

A: Most often, it's because the fudge didn't chill long enough or was placed in too warm a spot. Make sure to chill completely in the fridge before cutting, and double-check your measurements.

Q: Can I make this recipe in the microwave?

A: Absolutely! Combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well each time, until completely melted and smooth.

There's nothing like a nostalgic bite of homemade fudge! I hope Mom's Easy Fudge Recipe brings you as much joy as it's brought our family over the years. Give it a try, and let me know your favorite add-ins by leaving a comment or rating below!

★★★★★ 4.80 from 172 ratings