Smooth, rich, nut-free chocolate fudge made with chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, butter and vanilla. No candy thermometer needed; a treat any time of year. Makes 36 pieces.
This is the easiest fudge there is: melt chocolate chips with sweetened condensed milk, pour into a pan and chill. It sets smooth and creamy every time, and it is just as welcome at a summer cookout or a birthday as on a holiday cookie tray.
The recipe is nut-free as written. If you like nuts in your fudge, the tips explain how to add them.
Ingredients
3 cups (18 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips
1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
2 tablespoons butter
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Pinch of kosher salt
Instructions
Line the pan. Line an 8-inch square pan with foil or parchment, leaving an overhang.
Melt. In a heavy saucepan over low heat, stir the chocolate chips, condensed milk and butter until just melted and smooth, about 5 minutes. Do not let it boil.
Finish. Off the heat, stir in the vanilla and salt.
Chill. Spread in the pan and refrigerate 2 hours, until firm. Lift out and cut into 36 squares.
Tips
To freeze: let it cool, wrap it well or seal it in freezer bags, and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature, or warm briefly in the oven.
To add nuts: stir in 3/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans with the vanilla, or press them into the top before chilling. Toast them first (350°F for 8 minutes) for the best flavor, and label the fudge as containing nuts if you are sharing it.
Cooking for someone with a nut allergy? Check the chocolate chip label: some brands are made on shared equipment with tree nuts or peanuts.
Keeps 2 weeks in an airtight container in the refrigerator, or 3 months frozen.
Other mix-ins: swirl in 1/2 cup peanut butter (not nut-free), stir in mini marshmallows for rocky road, or top with crushed candy canes at the holidays.
Questions about this recipe
Can I add nuts to this fudge?
Yes. Stir in 3/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans with the vanilla, or press them into the top before it chills.
Why is my fudge grainy?
It was overheated. Melt it slowly over low heat and stop as soon as it is smooth.
Can I use evaporated milk?
No. Sweetened condensed milk is what makes it set.
