3 Ingredient Chocolate Fudge
Alright, let’s talk about this 3 Ingredient Fudge – it’s the superhero of my kitchen. Seriously, it’s like the ‘Good Place’ of desserts – uncomplicated, sweet, and always a crowd-pleaser. This 3 ingredient fudge recipe is my secret weapon for those moments when I want to whip up something that screams, ‘I put effort into this’ without actually spending hours in the kitchen. It’s just sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and butter. That’s it. But trust me, when these three get together, it’s a party in a pan.
I love this 3 ingredient fudge recipe because it’s foolproof. It’s perfect for those days when you’re multitasking like a boss and still want to create something fabulous. You can jazz it up with mix-ins or keep it classic – either way, it comes out looking and tasting like you’ve slaved over it.
3 Ingredient Fudge Overview
Cuisine Inspiration: American
Number of Ingredients: 3
Total Cook Time: About 4 hours (including setting time)
Primary Cooking Method: Stovetop melting and chilling
Dietary Info: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Key Flavor: Rich Chocolate
Skill Level: Beginner
Notable mentions
- Unbelievably Easy: Seriously, this fudge is as straightforward as it gets. Just three ingredients, and you’re practically a chocolatier. It’s perfect for when life’s too busy for complicated recipes, but you still want to whip up something fabulous.
- Ready for Any Scene: Whether it’s adding a bit of sparkle to your holiday spread or just jazzing up a casual hangout, this fudge fits right in. It’s the Veronica Mars of desserts – adaptable, reliable, and always a hit.
- Your Fudge, Your Rules: Feel like mixing things up? Throw in some nuts or a dash of sea salt. This recipe is your playground – have fun with it!
- Crowd-Pleasing: Bringing this fudge out is like delivering a punchline – it never fails. It’s a surefire winner, whether you’re sharing with friends or treating yourself.
Ingredients to make 3 Ingredient Chocolate Fudge
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Grab a 14 oz can. This is the sweet, creamy base that holds our fudge together – kind of like the glue in a detective’s scrapbook, but yummier.
- Chocolate Chips: You’ll need 3 cups. Choose from milk, dark, or semi-sweet – whatever tickles your fancy. It’s like picking your favorite character from ‘Frozen’ – they’re all great, but you might have a personal favorite.
- Unsalted Butter: Just a quarter cup. It gives the fudge its smooth, rich texture – a bit like the perfect supportive sidekick in a rom-com.
How to make Fudge with Sweetened Condensed Milk
Prepping Your Pan: Line and Prep: First things first, let’s get that 8×8-inch pan ready. Line it with foil or parchment paper and give it a little love with some non-stick spray. This is your fudge’s cozy home for the next few hours, so we want to make sure nothing sticks.
STEP 1: MIXING IT UP Grab a saucepan – yes, we’re doing this old school on the stove. Toss in your chocolate chips, add that sweet can of sweetened condensed milk, and don’t forget the unsalted butter. Give them a good mix. They need to get to know each other before the heat is on.
STEP 2: MELT AND MERGE Time to turn up the heat, but keep it low and slow. Stir constantly, because nobody likes burnt chocolate. Watch as the mixture turns from a group of individuals into a smooth, unified, chocolatey team.
STEP 3: SPREAD THE LOVE Once everything’s melted and mingling nicely, pour the mixture into your prepared pan. Get in there with a spatula and spread it out evenly. We’re aiming for a smooth surface – think of it like icing the world’s easiest cake.
STEP 4: PATIENCE MAKES PERFECT Now, the waiting game. Let your pan of future fudge sit at room temperature or chill in the fridge. It takes about 4 hours to transform from a liquid dream to a solid slice of heaven.
STEP 5: THE BIG REVEAL After your fudge has set, it’s time for the grand finale. Lift it out of the pan, place it on a cutting board, and slice it into your desired sizes. Warm up your knife for cleaner cuts if you like. And there you have it – a batch of fudge that’s ready to wow!
Popular substitutions & additions
- Go Nuts: Feel like adding a crunch? Toss in some almonds, walnuts, or pecans. Just make sure to toast them first to bring out the flavor.
- Mix in Some Fruit: Dried cranberries or cherries pair well with this fudge, adding a pop of tart in the mix.
- Leave out the butter: If you don’t have any butter on hand or don’t want to add it in, you can make my 2 ingredient fudge recipe instead!
- A Dash of Flavor: A little vanilla extract or a pinch of sea salt can elevate your fudge. It’s the simple detail that makes all the difference, kind of like the perfect accessory to an outfit.
- Make it Boozy: For an adult twist, a splash of your favorite liqueur can add some zing. It’s like turning a family movie into a date night flick – a bit more intriguing.
- Use White Chocolate: If you want to try Vanilla Fudge you can use white chocolate in place of the dark.
Tips for Making the Best 3 Ingredient Fudge
- Gentle Heat is Key: Keep the burner low. Melting chocolate is like balancing a busy schedule – it requires a gentle, steady approach.
- Stir with Care: Regular stirring is essential. It’s like multitasking with a smile – stay active and keep things moving smoothly.
- Wait for the Magic: After pouring the fudge into the pan, give it time to set. Patience here is like savoring a good moment – it pays off.
- Sharp Knife, Clean Cuts: When it’s time to slice, use a sharp knife for neat squares. Ensure your fudge is completely set before cutting. Also, try warming it slightly under hot water, and then drying it off. This can help make cleaner cuts.
How to Store 3 Ingredient Chocolate Fudge
To keep your fudge fresh, first let it cool completely. Then, store it in an airtight container. You can layer the pieces between sheets of parchment or wax paper to prevent them from sticking together. Keep the container in a cool, dry place – your kitchen cupboard or pantry is perfect for this. When stored properly, it can last for up to a week.
How Long Will 3 Ingredient Chocolate Fudge Last in the Fridge?
If you prefer to refrigerate your fudge, it will stay fresh for about 2 weeks in the fridge when stored properly. The cooler temperature helps maintain its texture and flavor.
Can I Freeze this Chocolate Fudge?
Absolutely! Freezing is a great option if you want to extend its shelf life. Wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a zip-lock freezer bag or an airtight container. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a different type of milk instead of sweetened condensed milk?
For this recipe, sweetened condensed milk is essential. It provides the right texture and sweetness. Substituting it with other types of milk won’t yield the same results.
Can I make this fudge in the microwave instead of the stovetop?
You can melt the ingredients in the microwave. Heat them in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, to avoid burning the chocolate.
My fudge didn’t set properly. What could have gone wrong?
There are a couple of reasons why fudge might not set. It could be due to not cooking the mixture long enough or not allowing it to cool and set completely. Make sure to follow the instructions closely for the best outcome.
Alright, team, we’ve just nailed the easiest 3 Ingredient Chocolate Fudge – and let me tell you, it’s as delicious as it is simple. This recipe is your trusty sidekick for those days when you want a sweet win without the hassle. It’s perfect for sharing with your favorite people, or for those moments when you need a little self-care in the form of chocolate. So go ahead, whip up this fudge, and bask in the glory of your culinary prowess. Here’s to sweet successes and even sweeter treats!
More 5 Ingredient or Less Fudge recipes:
I want to hear from you! If you try this easy 3 Ingredient Chocolate Fudge recipe or any other of my 5 ingredient or less recipes on Dinner in 5, then don’t forget to rate the recipe and leave a comment below! I read all the comments and respond!
3 Ingredient Chocolate Fudge
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
- 3 cups chocolate chips milk, dark, or semi-sweet
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
Instructions
- Prepare an 8×8-inch pan by lining it with foil or parchment paper. Lightly coat it with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
- In a small saucepan, mix together the chocolate chips, unsalted butter, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir until well combined.
- Place the saucepan over low heat, stirring the mixture frequently. Keep the heat low to avoid burning the chocolate.
- As the chocolate chips melt, the fudge mixture will start to thicken. Keep stirring. The fudge is ready when it has a smooth consistency similar to thick frosting.
- Pour the fudge into your prepared pan. Spread it into a smooth, even layer, pressing down to ensure it fills the pan corners and settles well.
- Leave the fudge to set at room temperature for about 4 hours, or if you’re short on time, let it firm up in the fridge for 2 hours.
- Once the fudge is set, slice it into squares and serve.
Notes
- Go Nuts: Feel like adding a crunch? Toss in some almonds, walnuts, or pecans. Just make sure to toast them first to bring out the flavor.
- Mix in Some Fruit: Dried cranberries or cherries pair well with this fudge, adding a pop of tart in the mix.
- A Dash of Flavor: A little vanilla extract or a pinch of sea salt can elevate your fudge. It’s the simple detail that makes all the difference, kind of like the perfect accessory to an outfit.
- Make it Boozy: For an adult twist, a splash of your favorite liqueur can add some zing. It’s like turning a family movie into a date night flick – a bit more intriguing.
Nutrition
Nutrition information provided is an estimate. It will vary based on cooking method and specific ingredients used.