January 27, 2025

paula deens 5 minute fudge

Paula Deens 5 Minute Fudge

If you’ve ever craved a quick and satisfying treat, Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge is the perfect solution. This easy recipe uses basic ingredients you likely already have at home, making it a go-to for busy days. With its rich texture and the option to add nuts or marshmallows, it caters to various tastes. But what’s the secret behind its popularity, and how can you make it even better? Let’s explore the details that make this fudge a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When you’re in the mood for something sweet, Paula Deen’s 5 Minute Fudge is a fantastic choice. This recipe stands out because it’s incredibly easy to prepare, taking just five minutes. You’ll use simple ingredients that you probably already have at home, and the steps are straightforward, making it accessible for everyone. The fudge combines sweet and gooey textures, thanks to the marshmallows and chocolate chips, delivering a rich flavor. Plus, adding nuts gives it a satisfying crunch. You can customize this treat for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering or an everyday snack. With only 80 calories per serving, it’s a delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth without too much guilt. Paula Deen’s indulgent recipes often showcase her love for comfort food, making this fudge a delightful addition to her collection.

History

Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge isn’t just a quick and tasty treat; it also has a history that reflects its roots in Southern cooking.

While the exact date of its creation isn’t specified, this recipe showcases the rich tradition of sweet Southern desserts. Key ingredients like evaporated milk highlight Paula’s practical approach to cooking, making it easy for anyone to replicate. The fudge’s simplicity and easy preparation time of just 5 minutes make it a favorite among busy home cooks.

Over time, variations have emerged, with some adding marshmallows or chocolate chips, showcasing the evolution of fudge in modern kitchens. Its popularity is evident, as it’s featured on Paula’s website and shared widely on social media.

This fudge not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also connects you to the cultural heritage of Southern cuisine.

Recipe

Ingredients
– 1 ⅔ cups white sugar
– ⅔ cup evaporated milk
– 1 to 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 (6-oz) package milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Optional: marshmallows and nuts (such as pecans or walnuts)
– Optional: vanilla extract

Instructions
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the white sugar, evaporated milk, unsalted butter, and salt. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly to guarantee the sugar dissolves and doesn’t burn.

Once the mixture reaches a boil, continue cooking for 5 minutes while stirring constantly. This will help achieve the ideal fudgy texture. Constant stirring is essential to avoid burning during this step.
After 5 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately add the chocolate chips. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
If desired, stir in marshmallows, vanilla extract, and any nuts you prefer. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
Pour the fudge mixture into an 8-inch square pan that has been lined with parchment paper. Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for 2-3 hours until fully set.
Once set, remove the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper and cut it into squares for serving.

For best results, be sure to monitor the cooking time closely as overcooking can lead to a firmer texture than desired.

If you prefer a softer fudge, consider gradually mixing in a small amount of cream or milk, but do so slowly to prevent the mixture from becoming too runny.

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or freeze them for a longer shelf life. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and flavors to make this fudge recipe your own!

Final Thoughts

As you wrap up your fudge-making adventure, remember that achieving the perfect texture takes a bit of practice and attention to detail. Using mini marshmallows instead of large ones helps them melt better, contributing to that creamy consistency everyone loves. Don’t forget to stir continuously while boiling the sugar mixture for the full five minutes; this step is essential to prevent the chocolate from clumping together. Once you’ve mixed in your chocolate chips, refrigerate the fudge to guarantee it sets properly. If your fudge doesn’t hold together, try adjusting your boiling time or combining ingredients in a different order. Constant stirring is crucial for successful fudge consistency, so stay mindful of these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to delicious, homemade fudge that impresses!

FAQ

Making fudge can raise a few questions, especially if you’re trying it for the first time or experimenting with different variations. If your fudge doesn’t set, it might be undercooked, so make sure you boil it for the full five minutes. Conversely, overcooking can make it too firm. For softer fudge, add a bit of cream or milk gradually. You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate with white chocolate or use regular milk instead of evaporated milk, though the latter adds creaminess. Store your fudge in a sealed container in the fridge for up to two weeks, or freeze it tightly wrapped for longer storage. Always let it cool completely before serving to avoid burns. Enjoy your delicious creation! This easy-to-make fudge yields 36 pieces of fudge, making it perfect for sharing or satisfying your sweet tooth!