Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons + ½ tablespoon salted butter (divided) – Provides richness and helps with texture. If using unsalted butter, add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
- 2 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips – These melt smoothly and give the fudge a deep chocolate flavor. Dark chocolate chips can be used for a more intense taste, while milk chocolate chips create a sweeter fudge.
- 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk – Acts as the base of the fudge, providing creaminess and sweetness. Do not substitute evaporated milk, as it will not have the same effect.
- ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons finely chopped walnuts (divided) – Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. Feel free to substitute pecans, almonds, or omit nuts entirely if you prefer a smooth fudge.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Before you start melting the ingredients, line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes it easier to lift the fudge out later.
Butter the parchment paper with ½ tablespoon of salted butter. To keep the parchment in place, dot a little butter underneath it so it adheres to the dish. This step ensures that the thick fudge batter won’t shift the parchment as you spread it.
Step 2: Melt the Ingredients
In a small saucepan or pot, combine the following ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 3 tablespoons of salted butter
- 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk
- ¼ cup of finely chopped walnuts
- ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract
Place the saucepan over medium-low heat and begin stirring constantly. The gentle heat prevents the chocolate from burning.
Step 3: Control the Heat
After one to two minutes, when the chocolate chips start to soften, reduce the heat to low. Continue stirring until the mixture is completely smooth, thick, and glossy. This process should take only a few more minutes.
Beginner Tip: If the chocolate looks grainy or starts to seize up, it may be overheating. Remove the pan from the stove and stir vigorously to bring it back to a smooth consistency.
Step 4: Transfer to the Baking Dish
Working quickly, use a rubber spatula or spoon to transfer the fudge mixture into your prepared baking dish. The mixture will be thick and set quickly, so spread it evenly before it hardens.
Step 5: Add Toppings
Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of finely chopped walnuts over the top of the fudge. Lightly press them into the surface to ensure they stick. You can also add sprinkles, flaky sea salt, or crushed candy for extra flavor and texture.
Step 6: Chill and Set
Place the baking dish in the refrigerator and let the fudge chill for at least three hours. This allows it to firm up completely.
Time-Saving Tip: If you’re in a hurry, place the fudge in the freezer for about an hour. However, for the best texture, refrigeration is recommended.
Step 7: Cut and Serve
Once the fudge is fully set, lift it out of the baking dish using the parchment paper. Place it on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut it into 1-inch squares.
For clean, even slices, warm the knife under hot water and dry it before cutting. This prevents the fudge from sticking to the blade.
Notes
- How to Store Fudge: Keep the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to three weeks or freeze for up to three months.
- Avoid Overheating: Chocolate can scorch easily, so always melt it over low heat and stir continuously.
- Work Quickly: Fudge thickens fast once removed from heat, so have your baking dish ready before you begin.
- Enhance the Flavor: A pinch of sea salt balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate’s richness.
- Fixing Grainy or Dry Fudge: If the mixture looks grainy, add a teaspoon of warm milk or butter and stir vigorously to bring back its smoothness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes