Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge is a quick and delicious treat that combines ease with the rich, comforting flavor of homemade fudge. Known for her Southern charm and simple recipes, Paula Deen has made this fudge a favorite among chocolate lovers who want a decadent dessert without the hassle. This no-fuss recipe delivers all the joy of traditional fudge without the complexities of candy making.
Essentials of the 5-Minute Fudge
Ingredients: The recipe uses a handful of basic ingredients—granulated sugar, evaporated milk, butter, semi-sweet chocolate chips, marshmallows for smoothness, and vanilla extract for added flavor. You can also include nuts for a crunchy twist.
Preparation Time: True to its name, the fudge can be whipped up in just 5 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute events or when a sweet craving strikes.
Crafting the Perfect Fudge: Tips and Techniques
To ensure the fudge sets properly and tastes perfect, a few simple techniques are key:
Consistent Cooking: The sugar and milk mixture must be boiled steadily for exactly five minutes to reach the “soft ball” stage, ensuring the fudge sets while remaining creamy.
Stirring Thoroughly: Once the chocolate chips and marshmallows are added, constant stirring is essential to prevent burning and to achieve a smooth texture.
This delightful dessert is not only delicious but also highly customizable. Whether you prefer it without nuts or packed with nuts and dried fruit, this basic recipe can easily be adapted to suit your taste. Plus, for those curious about the history of fudge and how it became such a popular dessert, more details are available here.
Why Paula Deen’s Fudge Recipe Shines
Among the countless fudge recipes out there, Paula Deen’s version stands out for its ease and consistent results:
- Efficiency: Ideal for those short on time, this recipe skips the lengthy steps often associated with traditional fudge-making.
- Kid-friendly: Its simple instructions and quick cooking process make it perfect for cooking with kids, offering a quick and rewarding experience.
Paula Deen’s 5 Minute Fudge
Ingredients
- 1 ⅔ cups sugar
- ⅔ cup evaporated milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 (6-oz) bag semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Start by combining the sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and salt in a medium saucepan. This forms the base for the fudge, setting the stage for rich, sweet flavors.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, bringing it to a gentle boil. Stir constantly to keep the ingredients from sticking and to maintain a smooth texture.
- Once the mixture reaches a boil, continue cooking for exactly 5 minutes, allowing the ingredients to thicken into a perfect fudge base.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the chocolate chips, letting them melt into a velvety smooth mixture.
- Add the vanilla extract, pecans, and mini marshmallows. The vanilla deepens the flavor, while the pecans provide crunch, and the marshmallows melt into a soft, gooey texture.
- Pour the fudge into an 8-inch square pan, smoothing the top. Let it cool and set until firm.
- Once cooled, cut into squares and enjoy. Each bite delivers creamy chocolate with hints of vanilla and a satisfying crunch of pecans.
