3 Minute Fudge

Every holiday table, potluck, and family gathering deserves a little piece of chocolate heaven. And when it comes to easy, fail-proof desserts, nothing beats 3 Minute Fudge. This recipe has been around for decades, passed down from grandmothers and shared among busy parents who wanted something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen. With just three ingredients and three minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a batch of smooth, creamy fudge ready to chill, slice, and serve.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. No candy thermometer. No complicated sugar stages. No special skills required. Just melt, stir, and set—it’s really that easy. Whether you’re making it for the holidays, a bake sale, or a last-minute dessert craving, this fudge is a lifesaver.

Why This Recipe Works

Sweetened Condensed Milk – Provides richness, sweetness, and the perfect creamy texture without needing added sugar.

Chocolate Chips – Semi-sweet chocolate is the base, melting into a velvety smooth mixture that firms up perfectly.

Vanilla Extract – Rounds out the flavor and enhances the chocolate.

Quick Prep Time – Just three minutes of cooking means anyone can make this dessert, even beginners.

No Fail – Unlike traditional fudge, there’s no worrying about sugar crystallizing or grainy textures.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk – This is key. Don’t substitute evaporated milk; it won’t set correctly.

3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips – You can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate depending on preference.

1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For depth and balance.

Optional add-ins: Chopped nuts, crushed candy canes, marshmallows, or a swirl of peanut butter.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy lifting later. Lightly spray with cooking spray if desired.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Milk

In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and fully melted. This usually takes about 2–3 minutes total.

Step 3: Add Vanilla

Stir in the vanilla extract (and any mix-ins you’d like, such as nuts or candy). Mix until evenly combined.

Step 4: Pour and Chill

Spread the fudge mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into small squares and enjoy!

Tips + Tricks for Recipe Success

Use Good Chocolate – Since the recipe has only three main ingredients, quality matters. Choose good chocolate chips for the best flavor.

Don’t Overheat – Stir often while microwaving. Overheating can cause the chocolate to seize.

Add Texture – Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds give this fudge extra crunch.

Holiday Twist – Sprinkle crushed candy canes or holiday sprinkles on top before chilling.

Cut Small – This fudge is rich! Small bite-sized squares are perfect.

Variations to Try

Peanut Butter Fudge – Swirl in ½ cup peanut butter before chilling.

Rocky Road Fudge – Fold in mini marshmallows and chopped almonds.

Mint Chocolate Fudge – Add ½ teaspoon peppermint extract and sprinkle crushed peppermints on top.

Cookies and Cream Fudge – Stir in crushed Oreos.

Salted Caramel Fudge – Drizzle caramel sauce and sprinkle sea salt over the top before refrigerating.

Serving Suggestions

On Dessert Platters – Add to holiday trays with cookies, truffles, and brownies.

Gift Giving – Wrap squares in wax paper or place in decorative tins for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Potlucks & Parties – Perfect finger food dessert for crowds.

Coffee Companion – A small piece of fudge pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or espresso.

After-Dinner Treat – A bite of fudge makes the perfect sweet ending to any meal.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store fudge in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Layer pieces with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Room Temperature: In cooler weather, fudge can stay at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use evaporated milk instead of sweetened condensed milk?
A: No, evaporated milk lacks the sugar and thickness needed. Always use sweetened condensed milk.

Q: Can I use a stovetop instead of the microwave?
A: Yes! Melt the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk together in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth.

Q: How do I make it softer or firmer?
A: For softer fudge, use a little less chocolate. For firmer fudge, add an extra ½ cup of chips.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, just use a 9×13-inch pan instead of 8×8.

Q: Do I have to refrigerate it?
A: Yes, at least until it sets. After that, you can keep it at room temperature if your house isn’t too warm.

Timing Information

• Prep Time: 2 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 minutes
• Chill Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: About 2 hours, 5 minutes (hands-on time just 5 minutes!)

Final Thoughts

3 Minute Fudge proves that homemade desserts don’t need to be complicated. With just three simple ingredients, you can create a chocolate treat that looks and tastes like you spent hours making it. It’s perfect for holidays, birthdays, bake sales, or simply when your sweet tooth strikes.

The best part? This recipe is endlessly customizable. Whether you keep it classic with just chocolate and vanilla, or dress it up with nuts, candy, or swirls of caramel, this fudge never disappoints. Once you make it, it’ll quickly become a go-to recipe you’ll turn to again and again.

So next time you’re in a rush but still want something indulgent, remember this recipe. Just three ingredients, three minutes, and a little patience while it chills—and you’ll have rich, creamy fudge ready to enjoy. Don’t lose this recipe—it’s a keeper!

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