Heavenly Fantasy Fudge: The Classic Sweet Treat Recipe

Whipping up this creamy fantasy fudge brings pure childhood nostalgia right into your kitchen.

Memories of grandma’s special desserts dance through rich chocolate layers.

Smooth textures and decadent flavors promise an irresistible experience for anyone who loves homemade sweets.

Each spoonful carries intense chocolatey richness that melts perfectly on your tongue.

Chocolate enthusiasts will appreciate the simple yet luxurious ingredients that create this timeless confection.

Soft, velvety squares promise delightful moments of pure indulgence.

You’ll want to savor every single bite of this magical dessert.

What to Serve Alongside This Classic Treat

• Pair with Robust Red Wine: Match the rich, sweet fudge with a bold Cabernet Sauvignon that complements the chocolate's intense flavor and cuts through its sweetness.
• Serve with Espresso Shot: Balance the fudge's sweetness with a strong, dark espresso that provides a sharp contrast and enhances the chocolate's depth.
• Create a Nutty Beverage Companion: Blend an almond milk latte to echo the optional walnut notes, creating a harmonious flavor connection between the drink and dessert.
• Enhance with Dessert Wine: Select a Port wine with its sweet, fortified character that mirrors the fudge's indulgent profile and provides a luxurious tasting experience.

Flavor Variations to Customize Your Fudge

• Dairy-Free Delight: Replace evaporated milk with coconut milk and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan-friendly version. Swap butter with coconut oil to maintain creamy texture.
• Nutty Alternatives: Substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or pistachios for different flavor profiles. For nut-free options, use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for crunch.
• Flavor Explosion: Experiment with different chocolate types like dark, milk, or white chocolate. Add peppermint extract, orange zest, or espresso powder to create unique taste experiences.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free. Double-check chocolate chips and marshmallow creme labels to confirm no gluten-containing additives are present.

FAQs

• What are the key ingredients for Fantasy Fudge?

The key ingredients include sugar, butter, evaporated milk, chocolate chips, marshmallow creme, vanilla extract, and optional walnuts. These ingredients create the classic, creamy texture and rich flavor of traditional fudge.

• Is a candy thermometer necessary for making this fudge?

While a candy thermometer helps ensure precise temperature, you can also use the soft-ball stage method. Drop a small amount of the hot mixture into cold water – if it forms a soft, pliable ball, it’s ready. This technique works well for those without a thermometer.

• Why do I need to stir constantly during the boiling process?

Constant stirring prevents the sugar mixture from burning and ensures even heat distribution. This helps create a smooth, consistent fudge texture and prevents scorching at the bottom of the pan.

• Can I make Fantasy Fudge without walnuts?

Absolutely! Walnuts are optional. You can omit them entirely or substitute with other nuts like pecans or almonds, or even add chocolate chips for extra texture. The fudge will still be deliciously creamy and sweet.

Why Fantasy Fudge Is Still a Crowd Favorite

• Perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or family celebrations, this classic treat brings instant smiles and nostalgic memories to everyone who takes a bite.
• Easily personalize the recipe by adding different nuts, mixing in chocolate varieties, or creating unique flavor combinations that suit your taste preferences.
• Requires basic cooking skills and minimal equipment, allowing anyone to create a rich, creamy dessert that looks and tastes like a professional bakery creation.

Everything You’ll Need to Make This Fudge

• Sugar, Butter, Evaporated Milk: Essential sweet foundation that creates the fudge's rich texture and caramelized flavor.
• Chocolate Chips: Provides the classic chocolate flavor and creamy consistency.
• Marshmallow Creme: Helps create smooth texture and holds the fudge together.
• Walnuts: Adds a delightful crunch and nutty dimension to the fudge.
• Vanilla Extract: Brings depth and warmth to the overall sweet profile.

Easy Instructions for Homemade Fantasy Fudge

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Canvas

Line a baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, ensuring the edges hang over the sides for easy removal.

Lightly grease the surface to prevent sticking and create a smooth release for your delectable fudge.

Step 2: Create the Sweet Caramel Base

• Sugar
• Butter
• Evaporated milk

Stir the ingredients over medium heat, watching the butter melt and blend into a silky mixture.

Keep your whisk or wooden spoon moving constantly to prevent any burning or sticking.

Step 3: Bring the Mixture to a Bubbling Boil

Increase the heat and continue stirring until the mixture reaches a vigorous, rolling boil.

Maintain a steady hand and keep stirring for 4-5 minutes.

If you have a candy thermometer, aim for 234°F, which signals the perfect soft-ball stage for fudge.

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate Magic

Remove the pan from heat and immediately introduce chocolate chips.

Stir vigorously until the chips completely dissolve, creating a smooth, glossy chocolate base that promises pure indulgence.

Step 5: Incorporate Creamy Marshmallow Goodness

Fold in marshmallow creme and vanilla extract.

Blend thoroughly until the mixture becomes uniform and incredibly luscious.

The marshmallow creme will add a luxurious texture and extra sweetness.

Step 6: Add Nutty Crunch (Optional)

If desired, gently stir in chopped walnuts to introduce a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the rich chocolate.

Step 7: Set and Cool the Fudge

Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly.

Allow the fudge to cool and set at room temperature for at least 3 hours, resisting the temptation to rush the process.

Step 8: Slice and Savor

Once completely set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang.

Cut into perfect squares and serve.

Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and enjoy your homemade treat.

Smart Tips for Smooth, Set Fudge Every Time

• Use parchment paper with overhanging edges for easy removal and clean cutting of fudge squares.
• Use a candy thermometer to precisely hit 234°F, ensuring smooth, creamy texture without burning sugar mixture.
• Stir continuously during boiling to avoid sugar crystals and maintain silky-smooth fudge consistency.
• Swap walnuts with pecans, add peppermint extract, or mix in different chocolate types for unique taste profiles.
• Keep fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or refrigerate for extended freshness.

How to Store Fantasy Fudge Without Losing Texture

• Seal fudge in an airtight container, placing wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. Store in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, keeping texture soft and preventing drying out.
• Wrap individual fudge pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe container. Freeze for maximum 3 months, preserving original taste and creamy consistency.
• Keep fudge in sealed container away from direct sunlight and heat. Store at cool room temperature for 1 week, maintaining its smooth texture and rich flavor.
• Remove frozen fudge from freezer, let sit at room temperature for 15-30 minutes. Allow gradual temperature adjustment to prevent condensation and preserve original texture.

Fantasy Fudge Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 14 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 20 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Creamy marshmallow fantasy fudge brings nostalgic chocolate indulgence straight from mid-century American kitchens. Rich layers of sugary smoothness melt deliciously, promising delightful comfort with each irresistible chocolate square you savor.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 12 ounces (2 cups) semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 7 ounces marshmallow creme (or marshmallow fluff)
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter
• 2/3 cup evaporated milk

Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup chopped walnuts

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare a baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or foil, then lightly grease the surface to prevent sticking.
2. Combine sugar, butter, and evaporated milk in a heavy saucepan, heating over medium temperature while stirring continuously until butter completely dissolves.
3. Increase heat and bring the mixture to a vigorous boil, maintaining constant stirring to prevent scorching.
4. Continue boiling for 4-5 minutes, monitoring the temperature until it reaches exactly 234°F, which indicates the soft-ball stage of candy making.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately incorporate chocolate chips, stirring until they melt completely and create a smooth, glossy texture.
6. Quickly fold in marshmallow creme and vanilla extract, blending thoroughly to ensure a uniform consistency throughout the mixture.
7. If desired, gently fold chopped walnuts into the fudge for added texture and nutty flavor.
8. Transfer the molten fudge into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface.
9. Allow the fudge to cool and set at room temperature for approximately 3 hours, ensuring it becomes firm and stable.
10. Once fully set, lift the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper edges, slice into uniform squares, and serve.

Notes

• Choose a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent burning and ensure even heat distribution during the sugar mixture boiling process.
• Calibrate your candy thermometer for precise temperature measurement, as accurate soft-ball stage (234°F) is crucial for perfect fudge texture.
• Use high-quality chocolate chips or chunks for richer flavor and smoother consistency in the final fudge.
• Swap walnuts with alternative nuts like pecans or almonds for different flavor profiles or omit for nut-free version.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 20
• Calories: 198
• Sugar: 17 g
• Sodium: 35 mg
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 27 g
• Fiber: 0.5 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg