Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this fudge because it’s smooth and decadent without being overly sweet. The combination of melted chocolate, marshmallows, and a buttery base creates a luscious texture that’s truly irresistible. Adding nuts gives it an extra layer of crunch, but it’s just as delicious without them. It’s a nostalgic, cozy treat perfect for family gatherings or whenever you crave homemade candy.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2/3 cup evaporated milk
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups mini marshmallows
1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the baking pan: Line an 8-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the lining.
- Combine ingredients: In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until it reaches a full rolling boil.
- Boil mixture: Continue boiling and stirring constantly for 4-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add marshmallows and chocolate: Remove from heat and quickly stir in marshmallows, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract until melted and smooth.
- Add nuts (optional): Fold in chopped nuts if using.
- Pour and spread: Pour the fudge mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
- Cool and set: Let cool at room temperature for about 2 hours, or refrigerate for about 1 hour for faster setting.
- Cut and serve: Use the foil or parchment overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan and cut into small squares with a sharp knife.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 36 small squares. Prep time is about 10 minutes, cooking and setting time totals approximately 3 hours.
Variations
- Omit nuts for a smooth, nut-free fudge.
- Add a pinch of sea salt on top for a salted chocolate twist.
- Mix in chopped dried fruit or candy pieces for extra texture.
- Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor or white chocolate for a sweeter variation.
- Drizzle melted caramel over the top before setting for added indulgence.
Storage/Reheating
Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Keep it cool and dry to maintain texture. No reheating needed; enjoy straight from storage.
FAQs
Can I omit the nuts?
Yes, the fudge is delicious without nuts, making it great for those with allergies or preferences.
What if I don’t have evaporated milk?
You can substitute with regular milk, but evaporated milk provides a creamier, thicker consistency.
Can I use regular-sized marshmallows?
Mini marshmallows melt more evenly, but you can chop regular marshmallows into smaller pieces.
How do I know when the fudge is done boiling?
After reaching a rolling boil, cook for 4-5 minutes while stirring constantly to ensure the right consistency.
Can I add other flavors?
Yes, try peppermint extract, orange zest, or espresso powder for a twist.
How thick should I spread the fudge?
Spread it evenly about 1 inch thick for easy cutting and ideal texture.
Can I freeze fudge?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
How do I prevent the fudge from sticking to the pan?
Use foil or parchment with overhang and grease lightly before pouring the fudge.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I make fudge ahead of time?
Yes, fudge stores well and can be made days or weeks before serving.
Conclusion
TOLL HOUSE® Famous Fudge is a classic, rich, and creamy treat that’s simple to make and endlessly satisfying. Whether you prefer it with crunchy nuts or smooth and plain, this fudge is a perfect homemade candy to enjoy for holidays, gifts, or anytime indulgence.
Famous Fudge Recipe
TOLL HOUSE® Famous Fudge is a rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced homemade candy made with melted chocolate, marshmallows, and a buttery base, customizable with or without nuts for a nostalgic sweet treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours (including setting time)
- Yield: Approximately 36 small squares
- Category: Dessert / Candy
- Method: Stovetop and chilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2/3 cup evaporated milk
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups mini marshmallows
1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Line an 8-inch square pan with foil or parchment, leaving overhang; lightly grease.
- In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and salt; cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until full rolling boil.
- Boil and stir constantly for 4-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat; stir in marshmallows, chocolate chips, and vanilla until melted and smooth.
- Fold in nuts if using.
- Pour evenly into prepared pan.
- Let cool at room temperature about 2 hours or refrigerate 1 hour to set.
- Use overhang to lift fudge out; cut into small squares.
Notes
Omit nuts for nut-free fudge.
Add sea salt on top for salted chocolate twist.
Mix in dried fruit or candy pieces for texture.
Use dark or white chocolate chips for flavor variations.
Drizzle caramel over top before setting for extra indulgence.
Store in airtight container at room temperature up to 2 weeks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 small square
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg