Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge

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If you’re looking for a quick and delicious treat that melts in your mouth, Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge is the perfect choice. This rich, chocolatey delight comes together in no time, making it ideal for last-minute dessert cravings, holiday treats, or gifting. With its smooth texture, nutty crunch, and deep chocolate flavor, this fudge is a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction.

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity—just a few pantry staples and a handful of minutes, and you’ll have a batch of irresistible homemade fudge. The combination of sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and crunchy nuts creates a luscious texture with the perfect balance of sweetness and richness. Whether you’re making it for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this easy fudge recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

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Ingredients for Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge

• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup evaporated milk
• 1/2 cup marshmallows
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

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Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter. This will make it easier to remove the fudge once it’s set.

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Step 2: Heat the Sugar Mixture

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, brown sugar, butter, and evaporated milk. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Let it cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

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Step 3: Melt the Marshmallows and Chocolate

Reduce the heat to low and add the marshmallows and chocolate chips. Stir until everything is completely melted and smooth. The mixture should have a thick, glossy texture.

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Step 4: Add Flavor and Nuts

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans (if using). Mix well to distribute the nuts evenly throughout the fudge.

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Step 5: Pour and Set

Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula. Let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then transfer it to the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to fully set.

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Step 6: Slice and Serve

Once the fudge is firm, remove it from the pan and cut it into small squares. Enjoy immediately or store for later!

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Storage Instructions

To keep Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate it for up to two weeks. For longer storage, wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container; it will stay fresh for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, let it thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 16 servings):

• Calories: ~150
• Fat: ~7g
• Carbohydrates: ~22g
• Sugar: ~18g
• Protein: ~1g
• Fiber: ~1g

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate?

Yes! Milk chocolate will make the fudge sweeter, while dark chocolate will add a richer, more intense flavor.

2. Do I have to use nuts?

No, the pecans are optional. You can leave them out or replace them with walnuts, almonds, or even shredded coconut.

3. How do I prevent my fudge from becoming grainy?

Stir continuously while heating the sugar mixture, and make sure it fully dissolves before adding the marshmallows and chocolate.

4. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just use a larger pan (such as a 9×13-inch dish) to accommodate the extra fudge.

5. What can I do if my fudge is too soft?

If your fudge doesn’t set properly, refrigerate it longer or reheat it and mix in a little more chocolate to help it firm up.

6. Is this fudge gluten-free?

Yes! All ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels to be sure.

7. Can I add other mix-ins?

Definitely! Try mixing in crushed cookies, toffee bits, or a swirl of peanut butter for extra flavor.

8. How long does it take for the fudge to set?

It usually takes about 1 hour in the fridge, but for best results, let it chill for at least 2 hours.

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