This simple fudge recipe featuring sweetened condensed milk cooks in the microwave in only 5 minutes, needing no candy thermometer; it is ideal for Christmas trays and gifting.
While my family classic chocolate fudge recipe is a favorite, this year I opted for a method avoiding stovetop stirring of boiling contents, and this recipe proved remarkably straightforward!
Adorned with fluffy marshmallows and crisp nuts, this rich chocolate fudge recipe can be prepared beforehand for the winter celebrations.
Ingredients for this speedy fudge recipe
The five components for this fast fudge include semi-sweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, mini marshmallows, and chopped walnuts (or your preferred nut). (For precise measurements and the complete printable recipe, review the recipe card below this post.)
Directions for 5 Minute Fudge
- This stands out as one of the most effortless fudge recipes I have ever created—no candy thermometer or constant stove monitoring is needed! Begin by lining a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper or grease-proof foil so the fudge easily releases once set.
- Next, simply combine the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in the microwave until smooth, allowing another 30 seconds and stirring if any chips remain clinging. Once silky, incorporate the vanilla, marshmallows, and walnuts.
- Spoon generous portions of the fudge mixture into your prepared pan and gently spread it into an even layer using the back of the spoon. Refrigerate until fully set, then lift out using the parchment paper and cut into squares; that concludes the entire process!
Helpful Advice & Techniques
- To achieve clean, even squares, heat a large sharp knife under hot water until the blade is warm. Wipe it dry with a cloth and slice the fudge while the knife remains hot for a very smooth cut.
- Employ clothespins to secure the edges of the parchment paper within the pan.
Variations
Feel free to tailor this quick fudge to achieve your desired flavor and appearance; here are a few suggestions:
- Swap the nuts for either white chocolate chips or peanut butter chips.
- Use maple or cinnamon extract instead of vanilla extract for a warmer, spiced taste.
- Mix in colored sprinkles and press some onto the top surface for a different aesthetic.
- Substitute the marshmallows with dried fruit to create a fruit and nut microwave fudge.
- Replace the semi-sweet chocolate chips with white chocolate chips and mix in cranberries instead of marshmallows for a lovely red and white Christmas fudge.
Equipment
Parchment paper has become one of my most often used kitchen tools for baking. It makes clean up a breeze, and eliminates fighting to get things out of the pan! I also love having a 9 x 13 professional baking pan with sharp corners. Every piece looks pretty when it’s sliced.
(Don’t forget to check out my Amazon storefront for some of my favorite kitchen tools!)
Storage
This easy microwave fudge can be stored safely on the countertop in a sealed container for up to a week, or covered in the fridge for 2 weeks.
To freeze, wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap and place in a ziploc bag or airtight container before placing in the freezer. It will keep for about 3 months in the freezer. To thaw, uncover the fudge, unwrap it, and thaw at room temperature on a platter.
For Christmas gifts, cut the fudge into squares, tuck them into mini paper cups, and pack them in a pretty tin. It travels beautifully and keeps for a week at room temperature.
Related Christmas Recipes:
- Church Window Cookies | Easy Holiday Treat Recipe
- Glazed Fresh Apple Cookies
- Old Fashioned Rolled Cut Out Sugar Cookies
- Easy Frosting for Sugar Cookies
- No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies
- 75+ Christmas cookie recipes with pictures
- Jam Sandwich Cookies with Sugar Cookie Dough
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You can find this recipe on my Easy Recipes Pinterest Board!:
5 Minute Fudge
This luxurious, 5 minute fudge incorporates fluffy marshmallows and crisp nuts. Its ease of creation comes from utilizing the microwave and sweetened condensed milk, eliminating the need to watch bubbling fudge on a stove.
Ingredients
Method
- Line a 9 x13 inch pan with parchment paper or greased aluminum foil.
- Place the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a microwave safe bowl and heat for 1 minute. Stir until mixture is smooth and all the chocolate chip bits are melted. If there are still some chips remaining after stirring, microwave in 30 second intervals - stirring in between until they are smooth. Stir in the vanilla, marshmallows, and walnuts
- Using a large spoon, spoon out the fudge in large dollops into the parchment or foil lined pan. Press down to form an even layer. Refrigerate.
- When ready to serve, pull the fudge out of the pan by lifting up on the sides ofthe parchement or foil. Slice into squares.
