How to Make Fudge Three Ways
Three easy and delicious ways to get sweet, creamy fudge right at home.
Thick, delicious fudge is the perfect way to satisfy the fiercest sweet-tooth. Making fudge at home is simple and you can get fudge that tastes just like it came from the candy shop. There are a several ways to make fudge, and even more flavor combinations and ingredients you can use. Here are three easy ways to make chocolaty, rich fudge in a matter of minutes.
1 Method #1: Microwave
Making fudge in the microwave may be the simplest way to create this delicious treat. Start by adding 2 cups of chocolate chips and one (14 oz.) can of sweetened condensed milk to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat these two ingredients on high for 30 second increments, stirring each time until melted. Don’t overcook the ingredients, as the chocolate will become dry and crumbly.
When ingredients are fully melted, and smooth, stir in 1 tsp. of vanilla extract. You can also stir in 1/2 cup of additional ingredients, like sprinkles, nuts, candies or cookies.
When all of your ingredients are fully incorporated into the soft fudge mixture, transfer to an 8x8 pan that has been lined with waxed paper or plastic wrap. Press evenly into the prepared pan. Feel free to top the fudge with additional sprinkles, candies or other ingredients, if desired.
Refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours or until set and firm. You’ll then be able to lift the fudge from the sides of the paper and onto a cutting board. Cut into small 1” squares, and enjoy!
2 Method #2: Slow Cooker
Much like the microwave method, making fudge in the slow cooker is just as easy. You’ll start with the same ingredient ratio: 2 cups of chocolate chips (any mixture or variety: semi-sweet and peanut butter chips were used here) to one (14 oz.) can of sweetened condensed milk. Heat these ingredients on low heat in the slow cooker for up to one hour. Stir the ingredients often, and remove the ingredients from the cooker as soon as they are fully melted and resemble a clay-like mixture. Stir in 1 tsp. of vanilla extract once the fudge has been removed from the heat.
Press the fudge mixture into the prepared 8x8” pan that has been lined with paper or plastic wrap. Add any additional desired toppings.
Refrigerate the fudge for 2-3 hours until completely firm. Cut into 1” pieces and enjoy!
3 Method #3: Stovetop
Much like the microwave and slow cooker methods, making fudge on the stovetop is very simple. However, because you are using a slightly hotter heat source, tending to the pan is a must.
To make fudge on the stove top, start with the standard 2 cups of chocolate chips, to 1 (14 oz.) can of sweetened condensed milk. Add these to the saucepan, and heat over low, stirring the ingredients often. Once the ingredients have melted together, promptly remove from heat, and stir in the 1 tsp. of vanilla extract. Add in any additional nuts or candies that you may prefer.
Pour the fudge into the prepared pan, top with any additional ingredients. Please note that of the three methods, this method will get the ingredients the hottest. Be sure to use potholders when pouring the fudge into the pan.
Refrigerate for 2-3 hours, or until the fudge is completely set.
Once fudge is cooled and set, cut into 1” squares and enjoy!