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This Easy Homemade Chocolate Fudge Recipe is rich, creamy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Made with marshmallow cream, semi-sweet chocolate chips, butter, and crunchy pecans, this old-fashioned fudge has been a holiday tradition for generations.

Whether you’re filling Christmas cookie tins, making homemade gifts, or simply craving a classic chocolate treat, this foolproof fudge recipe is always a favorite.

Servings, Prep Time & Cook Time

Servings: 48–60 bite-sized pieces

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Chill Time: Overnight

Total Time: Approximately 12 hours 35 minutes

Why You’ll Love This Easy Homemade Chocolate Fudge Recipe

  • Rich, creamy chocolate flavor
  • Classic old-fashioned holiday recipe
  • Perfect for Christmas cookie trays
  • Great homemade gift idea
  • Freezer friendly
  • Foolproof recipe with marshmallow cream

Ingredients for Easy Homemade Chocolate Fudge

The Chocolate Base

1 large jar marshmallow cream

1½ (12-ounce) packages semi-sweet chocolate chips

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

The marshmallow cream gives this fudge its signature smooth, creamy texture while the chocolate chips provide rich chocolate flavor.

The Candy Mixture

4 cups granulated sugar

1 can evaporated milk

1 cup butter

Cooking the sugar mixture to the proper temperature creates perfectly smooth, sliceable fudge every time.

The Pecans

1 cup chopped pecans

Pecans add buttery crunch and classic Southern flavor, but they can easily be omitted if preferred.

Equipment We Love for This Recipe

  • Heavy-bottom saucepan
  • Candy thermometer
  • Hand mixer
  • Silicone spatula

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Easy Homemade Chocolate Fudge Recipe
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Easy Homemade Chocolate Fudge Recipe

This Easy Homemade Chocolate Fudge Recipe is rich, creamy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Made with marshmallow cream, semi-sweet chocolate chips, butter, and crunchy pecans, this old-fashioned fudge has been a holiday tradition for generations.
Whether you're filling Christmas cookie tins, making homemade gifts, or simply craving a classic chocolate treat, this foolproof fudge recipe is always a favorite.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Cool 12 hours
Total Time 12 hours 35 minutes
Servings 48

Ingredients

  • 1 large jar marshmallow cream
  • 4 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 can evaporated milk
  • 1 cup butter
  • 1½ 12-ounce packages semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

  • Butter a 9 x 13-inch baking dish and set aside.
  • In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, evaporated milk, and butter.
  • Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture reaches 236°F on a candy thermometer.
  • Remove from the heat.
  • Add the marshmallow cream, chocolate chips, and vanilla.
  • Beat with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy.
  • Fold in the chopped pecans.
  • Pour the fudge into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
  • Refrigerate overnight until firm.
  • Cut into bite-sized squares.
  • Store in an airtight container or freeze for later.

How to Make Easy Homemade Chocolate Fudge

Begin by generously buttering a 9 x 13-inch baking dish and setting it aside.

In a heavy-bottom saucepan, combine the sugar, evaporated milk, and butter over medium heat. Stir frequently as the mixture heats, then continue cooking until it reaches 236°F on a candy thermometer.

Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately add the marshmallow cream, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer, beat the mixture until it’s completely smooth and glossy.

Fold in the chopped pecans, then pour the fudge into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.

Refrigerate overnight until fully set before cutting into bite-sized squares.

What to Serve with Easy Homemade Chocolate Fudge

This rich holiday treat pairs beautifully with:

  • Hot chocolate
  • Fresh strawberries
  • Vanilla ice cream
  • Coffee or espresso

For the ultimate Christmas dessert tray, pair this fudge with Snickers Candy Recipe, Oatmeal Cookies Recipe, Snickerdoodles Recipe, and Chocolate Chip Pound Cake Recipe.

Storage & Reheating

Storage

Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Freezing

Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating

No reheating is necessary. Serve chilled or allow the fudge to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for a softer texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I need a candy thermometer?

Cooking the mixture to 236°F (soft-ball stage) ensures the fudge sets properly with a smooth, creamy texture.

Can I leave out the pecans?

Absolutely! The fudge is just as delicious without nuts.

Can I use milk chocolate chips?

Yes, but semi-sweet chocolate provides a richer flavor and helps balance the sweetness.

Why does the fudge need to chill overnight?

Allowing the fudge to chill overnight ensures it fully sets, making it easy to slice into clean squares.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Homemade Chocolate Fudge Recipe is one of those timeless holiday recipes that gets passed down through generations. Rich, creamy, and packed with chocolate flavor, it’s perfect for gifting, holiday cookie trays, or keeping tucked away in the freezer whenever you need a sweet treat.

If you make this recipe, tag us so we can see. We love seeing how you style your food and bring a little Southern hospitality into your home.

Enjoy!

McKaylee & Michele
MckMich Collective