Introduction
Rich, creamy, chocolatey, and packed with crunchy pecans, this 5 Minute Fudge is the kind of holiday treat that disappears almost as quickly as you make it!
With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few minutes of cooking time, you can create wonderfully smooth homemade fudge that’s perfect for Christmas cookie trays, holiday parties, edible gifts, or a cozy night at home.
The combination of semisweet chocolate, fluffy marshmallows, vanilla, and buttery pecans creates an irresistible texture and classic holiday flavor. Once chilled and cut into bite-sized squares, this easy fudge makes a beautiful addition to any dessert table.
🛒 Ingredients
- ⅔ cup evaporated milk
- 1⅔ cups granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups mini marshmallows
- 1½ cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Prepare the Pan
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some overhang on the sides.
The overhang will make it much easier to lift the finished fudge from the pan.
2. Boil the Milk Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine the evaporated milk, granulated sugar, and salt.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly to prevent scorching.
Once it reaches a boil, continue cooking for 4–5 minutes, stirring continuously.
3. Add the Chocolate and Marshmallows
Remove the saucepan from the heat immediately.
Add the mini marshmallows, semisweet chocolate chips, and vanilla extract.
Stir vigorously until everything has melted together and the mixture is smooth, creamy, and glossy.
4. Add the Pecans
Fold the chopped pecans into the warm chocolate mixture.
Stir just until the nuts are evenly distributed throughout the fudge.
5. Transfer to the Pan
Immediately pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking pan.
Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer and smooth the surface.
6. Let It Set
Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for about 2 hours, or place it in the refrigerator until completely firm.
7. Cut and Serve
Once the fudge has set, use the parchment or foil overhang to lift it from the pan.
Place it on a cutting board and cut into small squares.
Serve and enjoy this rich, chocolatey holiday favorite! 🍫❤️
⭐ Tips for Perfect Fudge
Stir constantly: Keep stirring while the milk, sugar, and salt mixture boils to help prevent it from sticking or scorching.
Work quickly: Once the chocolate and marshmallows are added, stir and transfer the mixture to the pan while it’s still warm and easy to spread.
Use quality chocolate: Good-quality semisweet chocolate chips can make a noticeable difference in the final flavor.
Chop the pecans evenly: Smaller pieces distribute throughout the fudge more evenly and make each bite easier to enjoy.
Don’t skip the lining: Parchment paper or foil makes removing the set fudge much easier and keeps cleanup simple.
🥜 Easy Variations
For a slightly different nutty flavor, replace the pecans with chopped walnuts.
You can also add a handful of white chocolate chips for a pretty chocolate contrast or sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top before the fudge sets.
For the holidays, try adding a small amount of crushed peppermint candy for a festive chocolate-peppermint variation.
🎁 Perfect for Holiday Gifting
Homemade fudge makes a wonderful edible gift during the holiday season.
Cut the fudge into small squares and place them in decorative candy boxes, tins, or treat bags lined with parchment paper. Add a festive ribbon and you have a simple homemade gift that’s perfect for neighbors, teachers, friends, and family.
🧊 Storage
Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Place parchment paper between layers if you’re stacking the pieces to prevent them from sticking together.
For a firmer texture, you can also refrigerate the fudge in a tightly covered container.
📋 Recipe Information
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cooling Time: 2 hours
Total Time: About 2 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 36 pieces
Category: Dessert / Candy
Cuisine: American
Calories: Approximately 130 kcal per piece
❤️ Final Thoughts
This Paula Deen’s 5 Minute Fudge is proof that homemade holiday candy doesn’t have to be complicated. A few pantry-friendly ingredients come together quickly to create rich chocolate fudge with a creamy texture and plenty of crunchy pecans.
It’s perfect for making ahead, sharing with guests, or packaging as a thoughtful homemade Christmas gift.
Make a batch for your holiday table and watch those little squares disappear! 🍫🎄🥜✨