3-Minute Fudge (Don’t Lose This Recipe!)
This classic 3-Minute Fudge is rich, creamy, and incredibly easy. No candy thermometer, no baking skills, and only 3 ingredients! It’s perfect for holidays, parties, gifts, or a quick chocolate craving.
Time
Prep & cook: 3–5 minutes
Chill time: 1–2 hours
Total time: About 1 hour 10 minutes
Ingredients
1 can (14 oz / 397 g) sweetened condensed milk
3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional add-ins (up to 1 cup total):
Chopped nuts, mini marshmallows, crushed cookies, dried fruit, sprinkles, peanut butter, or caramel swirl.
Equipment Needed
Microwave-safe bowl
Silicone spatula or spoon
8×8 inch (20×20 cm) pan
Parchment paper or cooking spray
Instructions (Step-by-Step)
1️⃣ Prepare the Pan
Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy removal.
OR lightly grease the pan with butter or cooking spray.
2️⃣ Combine Ingredients
In a large microwave-safe bowl, add:
Sweetened condensed milk
Chocolate chips
Stir lightly to combine.
3️⃣ Melt the Chocolate
Microwave on HIGH for 1 minute.
Remove and stir well.
Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring after each round.
Stop as soon as the mixture becomes smooth, thick, and glossy (total time usually 2–3 minutes).
Do not overheat—chocolate can burn quickly.
4️⃣ Add Vanilla
Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
5️⃣ Customize (Optional)
Fold in any add-ins you like
OR swirl peanut butter or caramel on top using a knife
6️⃣ Set the Fudge
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan.
Smooth the top evenly with a spatula.
7️⃣ Chill
Refrigerate for 1–2 hours, or until completely firm.
8️⃣ Slice & Serve
Lift fudge out using parchment paper.
Cut into small squares with a sharp knife.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips for Perfect Fudge
Use good-quality chocolate chips for best flavor
If fudge feels too soft, chill longer
If too firm, let sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before slicing
Clean knife between cuts for neat squares
Variations
Dark Chocolate Fudge: Use dark chocolate chips
White Chocolate Fudge: Substitute white chocolate chips
Nutty Fudge: Add walnuts, almonds, or pecans
Cookies & Cream: Mix in crushed chocolate sandwich cookies
Peanut Butter Fudge: Swirl in ¼ cup peanut butter
Storage
Store in an airtight container
Refrigerate up to 7 days
Freeze up to 2 months (wrap tightly)
