The Easiest 3-Ingredient Homemade Chocolate Fudge: Your Go-To No-Bake Treat

Welcome to the simplest fudge recipe you’ll ever encounter! This foolproof method uses just three core ingredients – chocolate chips, butter, and sweetened condensed milk – to create a rich, creamy, and decadent fudge base. From there, the possibilities for customization are endless, allowing you to personalize your fudge with your favorite mix-ins. Best of all, there’s no need for a tricky candy thermometer, making this recipe perfect for even novice bakers. Get ready to discover your new favorite holiday treat or anytime indulgence!

*Post and pictures updated November 2022*

Homemade fudge is undeniably one of the most delightful and effortless no-bake treats, especially when the holiday season rolls around. With just three fundamental ingredients—butter, sweetened condensed milk, and chocolate chips—you can whip up a batch that’s rich, smooth, and utterly delicious. The beauty of this recipe lies in its incredible versatility; once you master the basic fudge foundation, you can easily adapt it to suit any taste or occasion.

Whether your preference is for classic, unadorned chocolate fudge, or you love to load it up with crunchy chopped nuts, chewy dried fruit, tropical shredded coconut, or any other creative mix-in you can dream of, this adaptable base recipe allows for complete customization. It’s truly a blank canvas for your confectionery imagination. Imagine the joy of biting into a piece of fudge exactly tailored to your cravings!

Beyond being a fantastic personal indulgence, this simple fudge recipe makes an exquisite hostess gift. Its elegant appearance and delightful taste are always appreciated. Furthermore, it’s an excellent candidate for cookie exchanges and potlucks, thanks to its robust nature that travels exceptionally well. You’ll find that this homemade fudge tastes just as fresh and delicious on the first day as it does a full week later, making it ideal for preparing ahead of time during busy periods.

Key Ingredients for Easy Chocolate Fudge

The ingredients required for this fuss-free fudge are minimal, straightforward, and likely staples in your pantry. While exact measurements are detailed in the comprehensive recipe card below, here’s an in-depth look at each component and why it’s essential for achieving perfect fudge every time.

• Chocolate Chips: You’ll need a generous three cups of chocolate chips to create that rich chocolate flavor and smooth texture. I personally lean towards semi-sweet chocolate chips for a balanced sweetness that isn’t overwhelming. However, this recipe is highly forgiving! Feel free to experiment with other varieties like decadent dark chocolate chips for an intense cocoa experience, creamy milk chocolate for a sweeter profile, or even vibrant white chocolate chips as a base for unique flavor combinations like cookies and cream or cranberry pistachio. The quality of your chocolate chips can slightly impact the final taste, so choose a brand you enjoy.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: This is the star ingredient that provides both the sweetness and the crucial thick, creamy consistency of the fudge. You will need one standard 14-ounce can. It is absolutely vital that you use *sweetened condensed milk* and not its savory cousin, evaporated milk. Sweetened condensed milk is noticeably thicker and intensely sweet, having had about 60% of its water removed and sugar added. Evaporated milk, on the other hand, is unsweetened and much thinner in consistency. Using evaporated milk by mistake will result in a runny hot fudge sauce, which, while delicious, is definitely not the firm, sliceable fudge we’re aiming for here! Always double-check your can before you start cooking.
• Butter: While it’s technically possible to make fudge with just chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk, the addition of just a couple of tablespoons of butter makes a significant difference. It introduces a luxurious richness and, more importantly, helps to create an incredibly smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture that sets this fudge apart. It prevents the fudge from becoming too firm or brittle and adds a beautiful sheen. You can use either salted or unsalted butter; if using salted, you might find the flavor slightly enhanced, but it won’t drastically alter the sweetness. Trust me on this small but impactful addition!
• Chopped Walnuts (Optional): This ingredient is entirely a matter of personal preference! If you’re not a fan of nuts, simply omit them. However, if you enjoy a textural contrast and a slightly earthy flavor in your fudge, chopped walnuts are a fantastic addition. They add a pleasant crunch that complements the creamy fudge beautifully. For those who prefer other nuts, feel free to swap the chopped walnuts for an equal amount of chopped pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Ensure your nuts are fresh for the best flavor.

How to Make the Easiest 3-Ingredient Fudge

Forget about the complexities of traditional fudge-making, because with this recipe, you can confidently put away your candy thermometer – you simply won’t need it! The most challenging part of preparing this chocolate fudge is the waiting period while it chills and sets in the refrigerator. Otherwise, it’s an incredibly simple and almost entirely foolproof process that yields perfect results every time.

1. Prep the Baking Pan: Begin by preparing an 8-inch square baking dish. Line it thoroughly with either aluminum foil or parchment paper. Make sure to leave a generous overhang on all sides; this thoughtful step will create “handles” that make it incredibly easy to lift the solidified fudge out of the pan later on, ensuring clean cuts and no sticky situations.
2. Melt the Fudge Mixture: Combine the sweetened condensed milk, butter, and chocolate chips in a sturdy saucepan. Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. It’s crucial to stir the mixture frequently and consistently. This prevents the chocolate from scorching on the bottom of the pan and encourages even melting. Continue stirring until the chocolate chips are fully melted and the entire mixture transforms into a luscious, smooth, and glossy consistency. Avoid bringing the mixture to a rapid boil; gentle heat and patience are key here. If you prefer, or if you’re concerned about direct heat, you can also melt the mixture using a double boiler method.
3. Add Mix-ins, if using: Once the chocolate mixture is perfectly smooth and melted, remove the saucepan from the heat. This is the ideal moment to stir in any optional mix-ins you’ve chosen. Gently fold in chopped nuts, dried fruits, or any other additions like peppermint pieces or mini marshmallows. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the warm fudge base.
4. Chill the Fudge Until Set: Carefully transfer the warm, melted fudge mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out into a uniform, even layer. Place the baking dish in the refrigerator and allow it to chill undisturbed until it is completely firm. This setting process typically takes approximately 3 hours, but depending on your refrigerator’s temperature and the depth of your fudge, it might take a bit longer. A good test for readiness is when the fudge no longer gives easily under light pressure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Fudge

Does Fudge Need to Be Refrigerated?

Yes, this particular chocolate fudge recipe relies on refrigeration to properly set and maintain its firm texture. Due to the high content of chocolate and sweetened condensed milk, it will soften considerably at room temperature. For optimal firmness and freshness, always store your homemade fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can the Sweetened Condensed Milk Be Substituted?

For the integrity of this specific 3-ingredient fudge recipe, there is no direct substitute for full-fat sweetened condensed milk. Its unique thickness and high sugar content are crucial for the fudge to achieve the correct consistency and sweetness without requiring a candy thermometer. As previously mentioned, do NOT use evaporated milk; it is much thinner and unsweetened, and your fudge will not set properly, resulting in a liquid or very soft outcome.

Can This Recipe Be Doubled?

Absolutely! This recipe scales up beautifully. To double the batch, simply double all the ingredients listed. When increasing the quantity, you’ll need a larger baking dish; a standard 9×13-inch pan is the perfect size for a doubled recipe, instead of the 8-inch pan used for a single batch. Keep in mind that the chilling time might be slightly longer for a larger, thicker batch.

Can Fudge Be Frozen?

Yes, homemade fudge freezes exceptionally well, making it a fantastic treat to prepare in advance for future enjoyment. You can store individual slices or a whole block of fudge in a freezer-safe bag or airtight freezer container for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw the frozen fudge overnight in the refrigerator. This method helps preserve its texture and flavor perfectly.

Delicious Fudge Recipe Variations and Mix-ins

The core of this fudge recipe is incredibly adaptable, inviting you to experiment with a wide array of flavors and textures. Here are some of my favorite creative variations to inspire your next batch of homemade fudge:

• Cookies & Cream: For a delightful twist, swap out the semi-sweet chocolate chips for an equal amount of white chocolate chips. Once melted and smooth, stir in 1 cup of coarsely chopped Oreo cookies (or similar chocolate sandwich cookies) for an irresistible cookies and cream flavor.
• Cranberry Pistachio: This elegant variation pairs beautifully with either semi-sweet or white chocolate chips. After removing the melted fudge from the stove, fold in 1/2 cup of sweetened dried cranberries and 1/2 cup of shelled, chopped pistachios. The contrasting colors and flavors make this a festive choice.
• Mint Chocolate: Infuse your fudge with a refreshing zing! Use either semi-sweet or white chocolate chips as your base. Once the mixture is melted, remove it from the heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon of pure peppermint extract. Taste and add a tiny bit more if you desire a stronger mint flavor, being careful not to overdo it as extracts are potent.
• Rocky Road: Create a classic favorite by adding 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts to the melted fudge mixture while it’s still warm. Then, very gently fold in 1/2 cup of miniature marshmallows. The key is to mix gently to prevent the marshmallows from completely dissolving, ensuring pockets of chewy sweetness.
• Peppermint Chocolate: Perfect for the holiday season! Replace any nuts with 1 cup of crushed peppermint candies or candy canes. Stir them in after the fudge is melted and pour into the pan quickly, as the candies can start to soften. A sprinkle of extra crushed candy on top before chilling adds a beautiful festive touch.
• Nut Butter Swirl: After pouring the plain melted fudge into the prepared pan, dollop spoonfuls of your favorite warmed nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew butter) over the top. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the nut butter into the chocolate fudge before chilling for a marbled effect.
• Spiced Holiday Fudge: Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg to the chocolate mixture as it melts. You can also include finely chopped dried cranberries or candied ginger for an extra festive kick.
• Espresso Kick: For coffee lovers, dissolve 1-2 teaspoons of instant espresso powder into the melted fudge mixture. It enhances the chocolate flavor without making the fudge taste overtly like coffee.

More Easy Fudge Recipes You’ll Love!

• Oreo Fudge
• Peanut Butter Fudge
• Turtle Fudge
• S’mores Fudge
• Peppermint Fudge

Recipe Video