Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This fudge is smooth, indulgent, and incredibly easy to make—no candy thermometer or special equipment needed. Just melt, mix, pour, and chill. It sets beautifully and slices cleanly, making it a go-to recipe for beginners and experienced bakers alike. You can also customize it with your favorite mix-ins, like nuts or dried fruit, for a personal touch.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Semisweet or milk chocolate chips
- Unsalted butter
- Vanilla extract
- Salt (optional)
- Chopped nuts, mini marshmallows, or other mix-ins (optional)
Directions
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or foil, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth (about 1½ to 2 minutes total).
- Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt (if using).
- Fold in any optional mix-ins, such as chopped nuts or marshmallows.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
- Once firm, lift the fudge from the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into squares.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 36 small pieces of fudge.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Microwave time: 2 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours
Total time: About 2 hours and 10 minutes
Variations
- Nutty fudge: Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for crunch and flavor.
- Rocky road: Mix in mini marshmallows and peanuts.
- Mint chocolate: Add a few drops of peppermint extract and swirl in white chocolate.
- Peanut butter swirl: Drop spoonfuls of peanut butter over the top and swirl before chilling.
- Sea salt topping: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top before chilling for a sweet-salty bite.
Storage/Reheating
Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
For best texture, let the pieces sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
No reheating is necessary.
FAQs
Can I use white chocolate chips?
Yes, but white chocolate can be a bit more temperamental. Make sure not to overheat and stir frequently.
What if my fudge is too soft?
Make sure you used sweetened condensed milk, not evaporated milk. Also, let it chill longer for a firmer set.
Can I make this fudge without butter?
Yes, the butter adds creaminess but is not essential. You can omit it or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.
Is sweetened condensed milk necessary?
Yes, it provides sweetness and texture. There’s no direct substitute in this type of quick fudge.
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet?
Absolutely. Dark chocolate gives a deeper, less sweet flavor—perfect for true chocolate lovers.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a 9×13-inch pan instead of 8×8, and microwave in larger intervals, stirring frequently.
Does microwave wattage affect the recipe?
Yes, if your microwave is very powerful, reduce the intervals to avoid overheating the chocolate.
Can I add flavor extracts?
Yes, vanilla is classic, but almond, peppermint, or orange extract work well too—just a few drops.
How do I cut fudge cleanly?
Use a sharp knife and run it under warm water between cuts for neat, clean edges.
Can I gift this fudge?
Definitely. Wrap pieces in wax paper or place in decorative tins or bags for homemade edible gifts.
Conclusion
Microwave fudge is a rich, creamy treat that’s unbelievably easy to make. With just a few ingredients and a couple of minutes in the microwave, you’ll have a batch of indulgent chocolate fudge ready to chill and enjoy. Whether you’re preparing a quick dessert, a festive treat, or edible gifts, this foolproof recipe is always a sweet success.
Print
Microwave Fudge
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 36 pieces
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Microwave fudge is a rich, creamy, and ultra-easy chocolate treat made in minutes with just a few simple ingredients. Perfect for gifts, holidays, or whenever a chocolate craving strikes.
Ingredients
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 3 cups semisweet or milk chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts, mini marshmallows, or other mix-ins (optional)
Instructions
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or foil, leaving an overhang on the sides.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until melted and smooth (about 1½ to 2 minutes total).
- Stir in vanilla extract and salt (if using).
- Fold in optional mix-ins like chopped nuts or marshmallows.
- Pour mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
- Once firm, lift fudge from pan using parchment overhang and cut into squares.
Notes
- Use high-quality chocolate chips for best flavor and texture.
- Let fudge sit at room temperature a few minutes before cutting for cleaner slices.
- Add flaky sea salt on top for a gourmet finish.
- Customize with extracts like peppermint, almond, or orange for flavor variety.
- This recipe can be doubled and made in a 9×13-inch pan.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
