3 Ingredient Fudge • Food Folks and Fun (2024)

Pin

Share

Post

Share

It is so easy to make homemade fudge with this 3 Ingredient Fudge recipe! Serve it at a party or pack it in a festive tin as a simple gift!

It costs about $6.56 to make this fudge recipe that makes 24 pieces. That’s only $0.27 per serving!

While looking at fudge recipes, be sure to check out my Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge, my Easy Almond Fudge, and my Butter Pecan Fudge.

3 Ingredient Fudge • Food Folks and Fun (1)

Table of Contents

Quick and Easy Fudge Recipe with Condensed Milk

If you have seven minutes, then you can quickly whip up a batch of this fudge to give as a last-minute gift, to add to your holiday trays, or to get your chocolate fix to help you survive the holiday rush!

What’s even better than the tiny amount of time this recipe takes to prep is that it only takes three ingredients to make it! And you most likely already have the ingredients on hand!

This recipe is made with chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. That is it!

The ingredients come together to make a rich and creamy fudge that is full of chocolate flavor.

Sweetened Condensed Milk Fudge ingredients

Per Serving Cost: $0.27

Recipe Cost: $6.56

  • 4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips – $3.48
  • (2) 14 ounce cans sweetened condensed milk – $2.46
  • 2 teaspoonsvanilla extract$0.62

NOTE: The recipe prices are calculated by using grocery store websites. The actual cost of the recipe will vary depending on what ingredients you already have.

3 Ingredient Fudge • Food Folks and Fun (2)

Easy Fudge Recipe variations

  • Peanut Butter Fudge – Use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet and add ½ cup of peanut butter. You do not need to add the vanilla extract.
  • Mint Fudge – Use mint chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet, or add ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract in place of the vanilla.
  • Marshmallow Swirl – After pouring the chocolate into the pan, place 4 spoonfuls of marshmallow crème onto the top of the fudge (about ½ cup total). Use a knife to swirl the marshmallow cream into the fudge mixture.
  • Nuts – After the chocolate has melted, stir in ½ – ¾ cup of your favorite chopped nuts, along with the vanilla extract.
  • Oreo Fudge – Break 10-12 Oreos into chunks and mix the pieces into the chocolate mixture.

How to make Fudge with Sweetened Condensed Milk

  1. First, line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
  2. Next, melt the chocolate chip and sweetened condensed milk in a bowl.
  3. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan.
  5. Next, place the baking dish in the fridge for at least three hours to allow time for the fudge to become firm.
  6. Finally, cut the fudge into slices before serving.

3 Ingredient Fudge • Food Folks and Fun (3)

How to store Sweetened Condensed Milk Fudge

SERVE: Slice the fudge into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature for very soft consistency.

STORE: Store the 3 Ingredient Fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

FREEZE: Wrap the fudge in wax paper and then with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for about 2 months when frozen this way.

Tools needed for this Easy Fudge Recipe

  • 8×8-inch baking dish
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Microwave-safe bowl
  • Rubber Scraper
3 Ingredient Fudge • Food Folks and Fun (4)

3 Ingredient Fudge FAQs

What does vanilla extract do for fudge?

Vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the chocolate. So while it is not a necessary ingredient or can be left out, it is not one I recommend skipping, as it adds to the overall flavor of the fudge.

Why is my fudge not hardening?

Typically this happens when the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk do not cook long enough in the microwave. If those two ingredients are not entirely melted, the fudge will not set up correctly while chilling in the fridge.

What can I use if I don’t have vanilla?

You can substitute maple syrup or almond extract in a pinch. Just note that it will slightly alter the taste of the fudge if you use a substitution. Especially if you use almond extract, as it has a more robust flavor than vanilla.

Can I make 3-ingredient fudge on the stove?

This easy fudge can be made using a double boiler. Add an inch or two of water to a pan. Place your double boiler or a heat-safe bowl on top of the pan, ensuring that the water does not touch the bowl. Bring the water to a boil, then turn to low heat to maintain a simmer. Add the chocolate and sweetened condensed milk to the bowl and frequently stir until melted.

What if the top of my fudge is lumpy?

If the top of your fudge is lumpy, you can place your microwave-safe baking dish into the microwave for 30 seconds to reheat the chocolate. Then, remove it from the microwave and work quickly to smooth the surface using a beveled spatula.

Can I use low-fat sweetened condensed milk?

Yes, low-fat or fat-free sweetened condensed milk works fine in this recipe.

Can I use regular milk?

No, this recipe will not work with regular milk. Sweetened condensed milk adds both flavor and texture to the recipe.

How long does fudge take to set?

The time it takes for fudge to set can vary depending on the specific recipe, ingredients used, and environmental factors like temperature and humidity. However, on average, fudge usually takes anywhere from 1 to 3 hours to set at room temperature.
To determine if your fudge is properly set, you can gently touch the surface with a clean finger. If it has cooled and set, it should feel firm to the touch and not leave any residue on your finger. Keep in mind that fudge can continue to firm up even after it’s been removed from the pan and cut into pieces.
If you’re in a rush, you can place the fudge in the refrigerator to speed up the setting process, but be cautious not to leave it in there for too long, as it can become overly firm or even develop a sugary “bloom” on the surface due to temperature fluctuations.

3 Ingredient Fudge • Food Folks and Fun (5)

More from Food Folks and Fun

  • Chocolate Chip Bundt Cake Recipe
  • Easy Recipe for Grape Salad
  • Slow Cooker Loaded Potato Soup
  • Smoked Beef Chuck Roast
  • Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with Cream Cheese Filling
  • Traditional Hungarian Goulash
  • Grilled Chicken Breasts
  • Old Fashioned Chicken and Egg Noodles Recipe
  • Teriyaki Beef Tips

3 Ingredient Fudge • Food Folks and Fun (6)

3.61 from 141 votes

Easy Sweetened Condensed Milk Fudge

Author Jillian – a Food Folks and Fun original!

Recipe Cost $ $6.56

Serving Cost $ $0.27

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 2 minutes minutes

Total Time 3 hours hours 7 minutes minutes

24 people

It is so easy to make homemade fudge with this3 Ingredient Fudgerecipe! Serve it at a party or pack it in a festive tin as a simple gift!

Equipment

  • 8×8-inch baking dish

  • measuring cups and spoons

  • Microwave safe-bowl

  • mixing spoon

Ingredients

Instructions

LINE BAKING DISH:

  • Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with a square piece of parchment paper that goes up the sides.

MELT CHOCOLATE:

  • Put the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a medium-sized bowl.

  • Microwave for one minute and then stir well. If the chocolate chips are not yet melted, microwave an additional 30 seconds.

  • Stir in the vanilla extract, then immediately pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.

CHILL:

  • Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, until the fudge is fully set and firm.

SLICE AND STORE:

  • Slice the fudge into squares and store it in an airtight container.

Video

Nutrition

Serving: 1piece | Calories: 281kcal | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Cholesterol: 13mg | Sodium: 45mg | Potassium: 293mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 29g | Vitamin A: 103IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 113mg | Iron: 2mg

did you love this recipe?

Share it with me on Facebook and find more recipes on foodfolksandfun for more!

3 Ingredient Fudge • Food Folks and Fun (7)

Pin

Share

Post

Share

Related Posts

Old Fashioned Fudge Recipe
Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge
Easy Almond Fudge

subscribe for new recipes

Get all the latest recipes in your inbox!

connect with us

Make sure to tag #foodfolksandfun on instagram!

Jillian

I’m Jillian, the creator behind Food Folks and Fun. I have over 30 years of experience cooking for others. There’s nothing I love more than cooking for my family. Food is love, and cooking isn’t just putting a meal on a plate: It’s putting a little part of myself into that meal.

3 Ingredient Fudge • Food Folks and Fun (2024)

FAQs

Why did my 3 ingredient fudge not set? ›

Why won't my 3 ingredient fudge set? This often happens when the condensed milk and chocolate chip mixture isn't hot enough to start. Everything must be completely melted before it is transferred to the pan to cool.

What is the secret to good fudge? ›

Valuable tips for successful fudge
  • Don't stir during cooking. Fudge can be cooked on the stove or in the microwave. ...
  • Avoid crystallization. During cooking, sugar crystals can stick to the sides of the pan. ...
  • Let cool before beating. After being cooked, the sugar must crystallize again to create fudge. ...
  • Beat the mixture.

Why add baking soda to fudge? ›

The baking soda reacts with the acids in the chocolate and alters the pH of the fudge to yield a firmer, lighter product. It makes it the best old-fashioned fudge you've ever tasted!

Why is my condensed milk fudge not setting? ›

The main reason is that your Fudge has not reached the optimum temperature. If your mixture only reaches 110 or 112 degrees Celsius it will always be soft. That's why we recommend investing in a sugar thermometer. Another reason your Fudge is not setting is that the ratio of liquid to sugar is too high.

What is the secret to smooth fudge that is not gritty? ›

Once the sugar has dissolved and the mixture has come to a boil, do not stir it. If you do, the sugar can crystallize, giving your fudge a gritty texture. As you beat the fudge, pay attention to color and texture. Once the fudge loses its sheen and thickens, put down your spoon.

How can I fix my fudge that didn't set? ›

You can bring it back to a boil with a bit of water, cooking it to the proper temp this time, and go from there. You can melt it with a bit of additional cream and make hot fudge sauce. Serve it over scope of peppermint ice cream set atop a brownie.

Do you stir fudge when it's boiling? ›

Avoid Stirring Once the Mixture Comes to a Simmer

Another key part of a successful fudge texture is when you stir the mixture. Stirring the sugar and milk during the initial stages of cooking allows the sugar to dissolve. However, once the mixture comes to a boil, it's time to put the spoon down.

What does cream of tartar do in fudge? ›

Cream of tartar is used in caramel sauces and fudge to help prevent the sugar from crystallizing while cooking. It also prevents cooling sugars from forming brittle crystals, this is why it's the secret ingredient in snickerdoodles!

How long do you let fudge cool before beating? ›

How long does it take to make fudge:
  1. about 18 min to reach boiling.
  2. about 40 minutes to reach soft ball stage.
  3. 60 minutes to cool.
  4. 28 minutes to beat in a KitchenAid (your time for this may vary)
  5. 4 hours to set.

What does baking soda do to gray hair? ›

This is why baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) has been incorporated into beauty routines due to its alkalinity with a high pH level. The substance works by lightening gray hair but should only ever be used cautiously as it also affects moisture retention capacity making it brittle.

Why did my fudge turn to powder? ›

Grainy Fudge

The sugars probably crystallized, a common mistake when making candy like fudge or caramel. If the melting sugar splashes onto the sides of the pan, it turns back into crystals and causes the fudge to seize up. To avoid this issue, swirl the pan instead of stirring it with a spoon.

How to make fudge thicker? ›

If your fudge is soft or runny, it probably didn't come up to a high enough temperature while it was cooking. Put it back into the saucepan and add 1–2 US tbsp (15–30 ml) of 35% fat whipping cream. Stir the fudge as it heats, but only until the sugar in the chocolate is completely melted again.

Is evaporated milk or condensed milk better for fudge? ›

Evaporated milk doesn't have sugar added. The sweetened condended milk is needed as no extra sugar is added to the fudge. If evaporated milk were used then the fudge would not be sweet enough and also would still be too soft unless the fudge is frozen.

What to do with failed fudge? ›

Options for what you can do with your unset fudge:

OPTION 1) Depending on how runny it is, you can either use it as a frosting for cakes, or a sauce for ice-cream. OPTION 2) Freeze it overnight. Cut it into squares. Cover each square thickly in melted chocolate, ensuring no part of the fudge is exposed.

Why did my fudge turn out like taffy? ›

If the temperature is too low, the fudge will be too soft and sticky, and if it's too high, it will turn into a hard, crumbly mess. The ideal temperature to cook fudge is between 232-234 degrees F (111-112 degrees C).

How to fix dry fudge? ›

You have one option to make it soft, which is you have to put the fudge pieces in a plastic bag along with the paper towel or a bread slice. Secure the bag and leave it overnight, next day you will get a softened fudge.

Can you put fudge in the fridge to set? ›

Let the fudge rest at room temperature for 15 minutes before placing in the refrigerator, uncovered. Refrigerate until the fudge is firm, about 2-3 hours (or overnight), before slicing and serving.

How long does it take for fudge to fully set? ›

Proper fudge will set after sitting at room temperature for about 4 hours. Understand that cooking the fudge properly is the skirmish before the war. The real test of your mettle will occur when you beat the fudge, and learn to master the fine art of turning and pouring. And if it doesn't work out it's okay!

Can I freeze fudge to make it set? ›

We like to set this fudge in the freezer to make it quicker! Once you add the fudge to your pan it will need just 30 minutes in the freezer to set.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Rubie Ullrich

Last Updated:

Views: 6448

Rating: 4.1 / 5 (72 voted)

Reviews: 87% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Rubie Ullrich

Birthday: 1998-02-02

Address: 743 Stoltenberg Center, Genovevaville, NJ 59925-3119

Phone: +2202978377583

Job: Administration Engineer

Hobby: Surfing, Sailing, Listening to music, Web surfing, Kitesurfing, Geocaching, Backpacking

Introduction: My name is Rubie Ullrich, I am a enthusiastic, perfect, tender, vivacious, talented, famous, delightful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.