Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge (Fast, Creamy, and Nostalgic!)
There’s something timeless and cozy about fudge — the way it melts on your tongue, the rich chocolatey sweetness, and the way it brings people together around the holidays or a casual potluck table. And when it comes to easy, crowd-pleasing fudge, Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge is an absolute classic. It’s fast, it’s fail-proof, and it always delivers on creamy, dreamy flavor.
Whether you’re short on time or just want something indulgent without much fuss, this is the recipe that turns five minutes into full-blown dessert magic. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Fudge
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✅ Only 7 ingredients
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✅ No thermometer needed
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✅ Done in 5 minutes of cook time
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✅ Kid-friendly, gift-worthy, & holiday-ready
This recipe gives you all the satisfaction of homemade fudge without complicated steps. The blend of evaporated milk, butter, and marshmallows helps it set up quickly while keeping that creamy texture we all love. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable — swap in nuts, drizzle with caramel, or sprinkle with sea salt for extra flair.
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Granulated Sugar | 1⅔ cups |
| Evaporated Milk | ⅔ cup |
| Unsalted Butter | ¼ cup (4 tbsp) |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips | 6 oz (1 cup) |
| Mini Marshmallows | 2 cups (or 16 large marshmallows) |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Chopped Pecans (optional) | ½ cup |
Tip: Use high-quality chocolate chips for a smoother, richer flavor. You can also substitute walnuts, almonds, or leave the nuts out completely for a silky fudge.
How to Make Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Line an 8×8″ square dish with parchment paper or lightly butter it. This makes it easy to lift the fudge out and slice clean squares once it sets.
Step 2: Boil the Base
In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and salt. Set over medium heat and stir frequently until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves.
Once the mixture reaches a full rolling boil (bubbling consistently even while stirring), start a timer and boil for exactly 5 minutes, stirring constantly. This is crucial — it ensures the fudge sets up with the right creamy texture.
