Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge: A Southern Classic Made Simple

Few desserts capture nostalgia and comfort quite like homemade chocolate fudge. Rich, creamy, and melt-in-your-mouth smooth, fudge has long been a staple of holiday dessert trays, bake sales, and family gatherings. Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge is beloved because it strips away the fear and fuss traditionally associated with candy-making and replaces it with simplicity, speed, and dependable results.

This recipe has earned its place in kitchens everywhere because it truly delivers on its promise. In just a few minutes on the stovetop, everyday pantry ingredients transform into decadent chocolate fudge with a silky texture a

nd deep cocoa flavor. No candy thermometer. No complicated steps. No guesswork.

What makes this fudge especially appealing is its reliability. Even beginner cooks can achieve professional-quality results, while experienced bakers appreciate how quickly it comes together during busy holiday seasons. Whether you’re making it for Christmas cookie boxes, last-minute gifts, or a simple weeknight treat, this fudge never disappoints.

Why This 5-Minute Fudge Works Every Time

Traditional fudge recipes often rely on precise temperatures and careful timing. One degree too hot or too cool, and the texture can turn grainy or brittle. This version avoids those pitfalls by using ingredients that stabilize the mixture naturally.

Evaporated milk provides richness and consistency, marshmallows help create a smooth set without crystallization, and chocolate chips melt evenly for a glossy finish. Butter rounds everything out with richness, while vanilla enhances the chocolate flavor without overpowering it.

The result is fudge that sets firmly yet remains creamy, with a soft bite that melts smoothly on the tongue.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• ⅔ cup evaporated milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan
   Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Set aside.
2. Heat the Base
   In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and salt. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a rolling boil.
3. Boil Briefly
   Continue boiling while stirring for exactly 5 minutes. Keep the heat steady to prevent scorching.
4. Add Chocolate and Marshmallows
   Remove the saucepan from heat. Immediately stir in the chocolate chips and marshmallows until completely melted and smooth.
5. Finish with Vanilla
   Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
6. Set the Fudge
   Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Let cool at room temperature until fully set, then refrigerate if needed for faster setting.
7. Slice and Serve
   Once firm, cut into squares and serve or store.

Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge

A rich, creamy chocolate fudge made in minutes with simple pantry ingredients.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Servings: 16 pieces

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American, Southern

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 cups granulated sugar
• 0.67 cup evaporated milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Wooden spoon
• Square baking pan

Method

 

1. Bring sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and salt to a rolling boil.
2. Boil while stirring constantly for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips and marshmallows.
4. Mix until smooth, then stir in vanilla.
5. Pour into prepared pan and let set before cutting.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated.

Tips for Perfect 5-Minute Fudge

• Stir Constantly: This prevents scorching and ensures even heating.
• Use Medium Heat: Too high and the sugar can burn.
• Measure Accurately: Candy recipes rely on balance.
• Let It Set Fully: Cutting too early can cause uneven edges.

Variations to Try

• Nut Lover’s Fudge: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts before pouring into the pan.
• Peanut Butter Swirl: Add spoonfuls of warm peanut butter and gently swirl.
• Dark Chocolate Version: Use dark chocolate chips for deeper flavor.
• Holiday Sprinkle Top: Add festive sprinkles before the fudge sets.

When to Serve This Fudge

This quick fudge is perfect for:

• Christmas and holiday dessert trays
• Homemade edible gifts
• Bake sales
• Potlucks and parties
• Last-minute sweet cravings

It stores well and travels beautifully, making it ideal for gifting and sharing.

A Timeless Southern Treat

Paula Deen’s cooking style has always celebrated comfort, simplicity, and generosity. This 5-minute fudge reflects that philosophy perfectly. It’s unfussy, indulgent, and designed to bring people together over something sweet and familiar.

Whether you grew up eating homemade fudge or are trying it for the first time, this recipe delivers classic flavor without stress. One bite, and it’s easy to see why it has become a go-to favorite for generations