If you’re craving something sweet but don’t have time to bake, this 3 Minute Fudge is the perfect fast fix. It’s creamy, rich, and chocolatey with minimal ingredients and almost zero effort. You can make it in the microwave, mix it by hand, and let the fridge handle the rest. Whether you need a last-minute dessert for guests, a quick homemade gift, or just a treat to satisfy your chocolate cravings, this foolproof fudge comes together in minutes and tastes like it took all afternoon. Beginners and seasoned cooks alike love how simple, reliable, and delicious this recipe is.
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Cook Time: 2 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes + chilling time
Servings: 16 squares
Ingredients
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional add-ins: chopped nuts, crushed cookies, mini marshmallows, sprinkles, or a swirl of peanut butter
Directions
- Prepare a square baking pan by lining it with parchment paper. Leave some overhang on the sides so it’s easy to lift the fudge out once it has chilled.
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, add the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter.
- Microwave the mixture for 1 minute. Stir well. Return the bowl to the microwave and heat in 20-second bursts, stirring between each round, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to the melted mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
- If you want to include extra mix-ins, fold them into the warm fudge mixture now. Stir until evenly distributed.
- Pour the fudge into the prepared baking pan. Smooth the top with a spatula so it sets evenly.
- Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours, or until firm enough to slice.
- Once chilled, lift the fudge from the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into small squares using a sharp knife.
- Store the fudge in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for a firmer texture or at room temperature for a softer bite.
Notes
- You can use milk chocolate or dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chips. The richness and sweetness level will change slightly based on what you choose.
- For a swirl effect, microwave a tablespoon or two of peanut butter until warm and drizzle it over the fudge before chilling. Use a toothpick or knife to create a marbled pattern.
- If you prefer nuts, walnuts and pecans are classic choices. Make sure they are chopped into small pieces so they blend in nicely.
- This fudge makes a great homemade gift. Wrap the squares in parchment paper or place them in a decorative tin.
- To double the recipe, use a 9×13 inch pan and increase the chilling time.
Nutrition Information (per square, approx.)
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Sugar: 22g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 40mg