When you need a chocolate fix fast, Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge is the ultimate go-to recipe. With just a handful of pantry staples and five minutes of stovetop time, you’ll have a batch of creamy, melt-in-your-mouth fudge that’s perfect for holidays, gifting, or satisfying a sweet craving. This shortcut fudge skips the candy thermometer and complicated steps, delivering pure indulgence in record time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Super Fast: Ready in minutes, no candy-making skills required.
Rich & Creamy: Smooth chocolate with a hint of nutty crunch.
Perfect for Sharing: Great for holidays, potlucks, or edible gifts.
Foolproof Recipe: No thermometer, no stress, just perfect fudge every time.
Ingredients
- 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 cups miniature marshmallows
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare Your Pan
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease with butter.
2. Heat the Base
In a medium saucepan, combine evaporated milk, sugar, and butter. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Boil for about 5 minutes, stirring to prevent sticking.
3. Add the Chocolate & Marshmallows
Remove from heat. Immediately stir in chocolate chips and marshmallows until melted and smooth.
4. Flavor & Fold
Add vanilla extract and nuts (if using). Stir until well incorporated.
5. Set & Slice
Pour mixture into prepared pan, spreading evenly. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.

Nutritional Information
Calories: 150
Carbohydrates: 21g
Fat: 7g
Protein: 2g
Fiber: 1g
Tips for Success
- Work Quickly: Once off the heat, stir fast so the mixture stays smooth.
- Use Quality Chocolate: Better chocolate chips make for richer flavor.
- Customize It: Swap nuts for dried cranberries, coconut, or peanut butter chips.
- Store Smart: Keep fudge in an airtight container at room temp for up to a week, or refrigerate for firmer texture.
Why This Recipe Works
By combining marshmallows and chocolate chips, this fudge achieves creaminess without needing the precise candy-making process. The evaporated milk and sugar create the perfect sweet base, while the vanilla and nuts elevate it to homemade perfection.
Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge is proof that indulgent desserts don’t need to take hours. Quick, rich, and decadently smooth, this recipe is a holiday favorite and a lifesaver when you need a last-minute sweet treat. Whip up a batch for your family, share with friends, or keep it all to yourself—no judgment here!
Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge – Quick, Creamy, and Irresistible
24
servings5
minutes5
minutes150
kcal10
minutesWhen you need a chocolate fix fast, Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge is the ultimate go-to recipe. With just a handful of pantry staples and five minutes of stovetop time, you’ll have a batch of creamy, melt-in-your-mouth fudge that’s perfect for holidays, gifting, or satisfying a sweet craving. This shortcut fudge skips the candy thermometer and complicated steps, delivering pure indulgence in record time.
Ingredients
1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
2 tbsp butter
1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 cups miniature marshmallows
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Pan
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease with butter. - Heat the Base
In a medium saucepan, combine evaporated milk, sugar, and butter. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Boil for about 5 minutes, stirring to prevent sticking. - Add the Chocolate & Marshmallows
Remove from heat. Immediately stir in chocolate chips and marshmallows until melted and smooth. - Flavor & Fold
Add vanilla extract and nuts (if using). Stir until well incorporated. - Set & Slice
Pour mixture into prepared pan, spreading evenly. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Notes
- Work Quickly: Once off the heat, stir fast so the mixture stays smooth.
Use Quality Chocolate: Better chocolate chips make for richer flavor.
Customize It: Swap nuts for dried cranberries, coconut, or peanut butter chips.
Store Smart: Keep fudge in an airtight container at room temp for up to a week, or refrigerate for firmer texture.