Paula Deen’s 5 Minute Fudge
This quick and easy chocolate fudge is rich, creamy, and packed with classic homemade flavor. Made with chocolate chips, marshmallows, and crunchy pecans, it takes just minutes of active cooking and is perfect for holidays, parties, gifting, or whenever you need a chocolate treat.Prep Time: 5 minutesCook Time: 5 minutesCooling Time: 1–2 hoursTotal Time: About 1 hour 10 minutes, including coolingServings: 16–24 piecesCourse: Dessert, CandyCuisine: AmericanMethod: StovetopIngredients1 ⅔ cups granulated sugar⅔ cup evaporated milk4 tablespoons butter½ teaspoon salt1 (6-ounce) bag semi-sweet chocolate chips2 cups mini marshmallows1 teaspoon vanilla extract½ cup chopped pecansInstructionsLightly grease or line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper.Add the sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and salt to a medium saucepan.Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring regularly.Once boiling, cook for 5 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent scorching.Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips and stir until completely melted and smooth.Remove the saucepan from the heat.Add the mini marshmallows, vanilla extract, and chopped pecans. Stir until the marshmallows are melted and everything is evenly combined.Immediately pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan and spread it into an even layer.Allow the fudge to cool completely and become firm before cutting it into small squares.Serve and enjoy, or store in an airtight container for later.Recipe NotesMeasure all your ingredients before you begin because the fudge comes together quickly.Stir constantly while the mixture boils to help prevent scorching.Don't cut the fudge while it's still warm. Let it cool completely for cleaner squares.You can replace the pecans with chopped walnuts or leave the nuts out completely.For a festive version, top the fudge with crushed peppermint, holiday sprinkles, or a white chocolate drizzle.Semi-sweet chocolate provides a balanced flavor, while milk chocolate will make the fudge sweeter.StorageKeep the cooled fudge in an airtight container. Separate stacked layers with parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking.For longer storage, wrap the fudge well and place it in an airtight freezer-safe container. Let frozen fudge thaw before serving.