Fantasy Fudge

This old-school fantasy fudge uses evaporated milk and marshmallow creme for a glossy, creamy bite that sets reliably every time. Boil, stir in chocolate chips, walnuts and vanilla, then cool for tidy, candy-shop squares.

plate full of fantasy fudge


 

What You’ll Need

One of the best things about this easy fantasy fudge recipe is that the simple ingredients are easy to find at any grocery store. A full list of ingredients with measurements for this recipe is available in the printable recipe card below.

  • Granulated sugar
  • Unsalted butter
  • Evaporated milk
  • Semi-sweet chocolate chips
overhead shot of plate full of fantasy fudge

What to Serve with Fantasy Fudge

Easy chocolate fudge is a great sweet treat all by itself, but you can also use it to garnish ice cream or put it on a seasonal cookie tray. It’s also delicious dunked in homemade whipped cream or drizzled with caramel sauce.

overhead shot of cut fudge

Variations

There are lots of different ways you can take the original recipe for this fantasy fudge and make it your own.

  • Nuts– Try adding or swapping pistachios, peanuts, pecans – whatever you prefer!
  • Sprinkles– Dress up your fudge with colorful sprinkles.
  • Decorators’ sugar– Add some sparkly seasonal color with a little bit of decorators’ sugar.
  • Chips– Peanut butter chips, white chocolate chips, or butterscotch are a couple of options for folding in or pressing into the top.
  • Salt– Sprinkle some fleur de sel over top of the fudge to make it the perfect dessert. Use pink Himalayan sea salt for a touch of pretty color.
  • Extract– Use almond extract for nutty flavor or peppermint extract to make the perfect treat for the holidays.
overhead shot of three pieces of fudge

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the secret to making fudge? 

The number one key to making the best fantasy fudge is to pay close attention to your candy thermometer so you know exactly when it has reached the right temperature. 

What makes high-quality fudge? 

High-quality fudge is the result of attention to detail in terms of timing. Avoid overcooking fudge because it will be hard and dry, and don’t overcook it — then it will be too soft.

Why is my homemade fudge not hardening? 

You need to cook your fudge to just the right temperature in order for it to harden. Make sure you use a candy thermometer to be precise. 

What if my fudge doesn’t reach 234°F?

If the mixture does not reach the intended temperature, it will be soft with too much liquid remaining and likely gritty from the sugar not fully dissolving.

More Creamy Fudge Treats

Of all of the desserts, fudge is definitely one of my favorites. Here are some of the best.

plate full of fantasy fudge

Fantasy Fudge Recipe

3.94 from 15 votes
Classic fantasy fudge with sugar, butter, evaporated milk, chocolate chips and marshmallow fluff. Boil, stir in chocolate and nuts then cool.
Prep Time: 4 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Cooling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 19 minutes
Servings: 12

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Line 9-inch square pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper, crisscrossing to make a sling.
  • Combine the sugar, butter and evaporated milk in a heavy-bottom saucepan. Bring to a rolling boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Simmer and stir for 5-10 minutes or until it registers at 234°F on a candy thermometer. Remove from the heat.
  • Add the chocolate and marshmallow creme to the hot mixture; stir until melted. Add the nuts and vanilla.
  • Pour the hot fudge into the prepared pan; spreading evenly. Cool completely. Use foil handles to lift fudge from pan before cutting into 1-inch squares.
  • If you’ve tried this recipe, come back and let us know how it was in the comments or star ratings.

Notes

Storage: Store fudge in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for 2-3 weeks. Be sure to keep the fudge in a dry, cool place and avoid refrigerating because it will dry out.
Freezer: This classic recipe can also be frozen. Freeze it for up to three months in a freezer bag, but keep in mind it will be a little drier when thawed. Also, place wax paper in between fudge pieces to prevent them from sticking.

Nutrition

Calories: 575 kcal, Carbohydrates: 76 g, Protein: 4 g, Fat: 30 g, Saturated Fat: 15 g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 5 g, Monounsaturated Fat: 7 g, Trans Fat: 0.5 g, Cholesterol: 36 mg, Sodium: 20 mg, Potassium: 251 mg, Fiber: 3 g, Sugar: 69 g, Vitamin A: 404 IU, Vitamin C: 0.4 mg, Calcium: 68 mg, Iron: 2 mg
Author: Jessica Formicola
Calories: 575
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: fantasy fudge
Did you make this recipe?I’d love to see your recipes – snap a picture and mention @savoryexperiments or tag #savoryexperiments!
collage of fantasy fudge for pinterest
Jessica Formicola in her ktichen

About the Author

Chef Jessica Anne Formicola

Jessica the mom, wife and chef behind Savory Experiments. You might see her on the Emmy- nominated TV show Plate It! or on bookshelves as a cookbook author. Jessica is a Le Cordon Bleu certified recipe developer and regularly contributed to Parade, Better Homes & Gardens, The Daily Meal, Mashed and more!

Read More About Jessica

3.94 from 15 votes (11 ratings without comment)

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Recipe Rating




Questions and Reviews

  1. 5 stars
    Enjoyed this for an afternoon treat and it does not disappoint! Turned out perfectly rich, creamy and delicious; a chocolate lover’s dream!

  2. 5 stars
    Your Fantasy Fudge post hit the sweet spot for me! The blend of marshmallow cream and chocolate is basically magic in a pan. Your step-by-step instructions made the process foolproof, and I love the extra tips you threw in about storage—that’s if any fudge survives long enough to be stored! Seriously, this recipe is a keeper.

  3. 5 stars
    I love this recipe! I made it for my friend who’s a fudge queen and she said this was her favorite she’s ever had!