Fantasy Fudge: A Classic Sweet Treat

This fudge is rich, creamy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. It’s the classic sweet treat you grew up loving. One bite and you’re back to childhood.

I made it for the holidays, and it disappeared in no time. The chocolate is silky smooth, the texture is just right, and those little marshmallow bits? Totally perfect.

It’s sweet, nostalgic, and perfect for gifting or snacking. Great for parties, holidays, or just a little something special. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again.

Let’s make some fudge! This classic recipe is easy, foolproof, and always a crowd-pleaser. Grab your pan—let’s get sweet!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Time-Tested Crowd-Pleaser: Fantasy Fudge has stood the test of time because it’s consistently delicious. It delivers a perfect balance of chocolate richness and melt-in-your-mouth creaminess.
• Reliable Texture Every Time: Thanks to the marshmallow creme, this fudge avoids the graininess that sometimes plagues homemade fudge. It’s always velvety and smooth.
• Fast and Achievable: You don’t need a candy thermometer (though it helps). A few minutes of boiling and stirring, and it’s ready to pour.
• Customizable to Your Taste: Add-ins like walnuts, pecans, or swirls of peanut butter or peppermint allow you to make it your own.
• Ideal for Gifting: Cut into neat squares, it holds its shape well and makes a beautiful addition to dessert boxes or holiday tins.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep & Cook Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 10 minutes to measure ingredients, line your pan, and get everything ready
• Cook Time: 15 minutes, including boiling and stirring
• Cooling Time: 1–2 hours at room temperature, or 30–45 minutes in the fridge
• Total Time: About 25 minutes hands-on, plus cooling

Serving Size and Yield

• Makes: About 3 pounds of fudge, or 60–64 bite-sized squares when cut into 1-inch pieces

Skill Level

• Easy: If you can stir and follow a timer, you can make this fudge. The steps are simple, and there’s no need for specialized candy-making techniques.

Required Kitchen Tools

To keep things running smoothly, it helps to have everything ready before you start:

• Large heavy-bottomed saucepan: This ensures even heat distribution and prevents burning.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Ideal for stirring without damaging your pan.
• 9×13-inch baking dish or metal pan: The size helps the fudge cool evenly and yields the perfect thickness.
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil: Makes cleanup easier and helps you lift the fudge out neatly.
• Candy thermometer (optional): While not essential, it gives added confidence that your mixture has reached the right stage.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precision matters when working with sugar and chocolate.

Ingredients for Fantasy Fudge

These pantry staples come together to create something rich and luxurious with very little effort:

• Granulated Sugar (3 cups): The main sweetener and structure base for the fudge.
• Unsalted Butter (3/4 cup or 1 1/2 sticks): Adds richness and a smooth mouthfeel.
• Evaporated Milk (2/3 cup): Thicker than regular milk, it helps create a creamy texture and prevents crystallization.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (12 oz / about 2 cups): Provides deep chocolate flavor without being overly sweet.
• Marshmallow Creme (7 oz): The secret to the fudge’s signature smoothness and light texture.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Enhances the chocolate and adds depth.
• Chopped Walnuts (1 cup, optional): Adds texture and a nutty counterpoint to the sweetness. You can substitute pecans or leave them out entirely for a nut-free version.

Variations for Fantasy Fudge

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be adapted to suit your mood or the season:

• Nut-Free: Simply skip the walnuts. The texture remains creamy and indulgent without them.
• Extra Chocolatey: Use bittersweet or dark chocolate chips for a more intense cocoa flavor.
• Festive Add-Ins: Stir in crushed peppermint candies or swirl in a spoonful of peanut butter for a holiday or nostalgic twist.
• Layered Fudge: Pour half the mixture into the pan, layer with something like caramel or crushed cookies, then add the rest on top before cooling.
• Swirled Style: Add ribbons of white chocolate or peanut butter just before the final stir to create a marbled look and a new flavor layer.

How to Make Fantasy Fudge: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan

Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil, letting the sides hang over the edge. Lightly grease the lining to prevent sticking. This will make lifting the fudge out and slicing it much easier later on.

2. Combine the Base

In your saucepan, add 3 cups sugar, 3/4 cup butter, and 2/3 cup evaporated milk. Turn the heat to medium and stir constantly with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula. Let the butter melt completely and mix with the sugar.

3. Bring to a Rolling Boil

Once everything is combined, continue stirring and bring the mixture to a rolling boil—this means bubbling across the entire surface, not just around the edges. Set a timer and boil for 5 full minutes, stirring continuously to prevent scorching.

Optional Tip: If you’re using a candy thermometer, aim for about 234°F (soft-ball stage). This ensures your fudge sets properly.

4. Stir in Chocolate and Marshmallow

After the 5-minute boil, remove the saucepan from heat. Immediately add the chocolate chips and marshmallow creme. Stir well until the chocolate chips melt completely and the mixture becomes smooth and glossy. It may take a minute or two, but keep stirring until it’s fully blended.

5. Add Vanilla and Walnuts

Once the mixture is smooth, stir in the vanilla extract and chopped walnuts (if using). Mix until everything is evenly distributed. The fudge should look silky with a slight sheen.

6. Pour into Prepared Pan

Carefully pour the hot fudge mixture into your lined and greased baking dish. Use your spatula to smooth it into an even layer, reaching all corners. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove air bubbles and ensure a flat surface.

7. Cool and Set

Let the fudge cool at room temperature for 1–2 hours, or refrigerate for 30–45 minutes to speed things up. The fudge should be firm to the touch and easy to lift from the pan.

Serving and Decoration

Once the fudge has set:

• Lift and Cut: Use the parchment or foil overhangs to lift the fudge from the pan. Place it on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut into 1-inch squares.
• Presentation Tips: Arrange the squares neatly on a plate or stack them in a festive tin lined with wax paper for a beautiful presentation.
• Gifting Idea: Wrap individual pieces in wax paper or tuck them into mini cupcake liners. Place them in a decorative box or jar for easy, thoughtful holiday gifts.

How to Store Fantasy Fudge

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Keep pieces separated by parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking.
• Refrigerator: For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2–3 weeks. Let the fudge come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
• Freezer: Fudge freezes well! Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature before enjoying.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pan: This helps prevent the sugar from burning and ensures even heat.
• Boil for Exactly 5 Minutes: Under-boiling can result in soft, unset fudge, while over-boiling can make it dry and crumbly. Set a timer for accuracy.
• Stir Constantly: This prevents the mixture from sticking or burning and keeps it smooth.
• Work Quickly: Once the chocolate and marshmallow are added, the fudge will begin to set. Stir fast and pour into the pan promptly.
• Cut Cleanly: For neat, even squares, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts.

Nutrition Information (Per Piece)

Here’s an approximate breakdown for one 1-inch square of Fantasy Fudge (based on the full recipe cut into 64 pieces):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	110
Total Fat	5g
Saturated Fat	3g
Cholesterol	10mg
Sodium	20mg
Carbohydrates	16g
Sugars	14g
Protein	1g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary depending on ingredient brands and add-ins (like nuts or flavorings).

Fantasy Fudge FAQs

Q: Can I use sweetened condensed milk instead of evaporated milk?
A: No. Sweetened condensed milk has added sugar and a thicker consistency that would throw off the recipe. Stick with evaporated milk for the classic texture.

Q: Can I use a candy thermometer to ensure accuracy?
A: Yes, while not essential, a candy thermometer is a helpful tool. Bring the mixture to 234°F (soft-ball stage) to guarantee your fudge sets properly.

Q: How long does it take for the fudge to set?
A: It usually takes about 1–2 hours at room temperature or 30–45 minutes in the refrigerator. Once firm, it’s ready to cut and serve.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: You can, but make sure to use a larger pan and cook in batches if needed. Double the recipe carefully to avoid overfilling your pan, which can affect cooking times and texture.

Conclusion

Fantasy Fudge is more than just a sweet treat—it’s a connection to holiday traditions and family memories. This simple yet rich chocolate fudge is easy to make, with a foolproof method that delivers smooth, creamy squares every time. Whether you’re crafting it for a festive dessert table, sharing it as a homemade gift, or just craving a bite of something sweet, this recipe is a timeless favorite.

Take your time, follow each step, and enjoy the process of making a dessert that’s as rewarding to create as it is to eat.