If you have a sweet tooth and love a rich, chocolatey treat that feels like a warm hug, this Chocolate Candy Fudge Recipe is about to become your new favorite. It combines silky smooth chocolate with the fun crunch of your favorite candy bars, creating a perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and slightly salty all in one bite. It’s unbelievably easy to make, no baking required, and perfect for sharing or indulging on your own. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might be simple, but each one plays a crucial role in delivering that luxurious texture and decadent taste you want from a fudge. From the creamy richness of sweetened condensed milk to the melty magic of semi-sweet chocolate chips, every element adds depth and flavor.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (3 cups): The heart of the fudge, providing that rich and smooth chocolate foundation you crave.
- Sweetened condensed milk (1 14-ounce can): Adds creaminess and sweetness, binding the ingredients into a luscious fudge.
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup): Enhances texture and adds a subtle richness without overpowering the chocolate flavor.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): A little dash brightens up the chocolate and adds a warm undertone.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and intensifies the chocolate taste beautifully.
- Chopped candy bars (1 cup): Your chance to get creative and add fun textures and flavors – think Snickers, M&M’s, or peanut butter cups.
- Extra chopped candy for topping (optional): For that finishing touch and a pop of color on top.
How to Make Chocolate Candy Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or foil, making sure to leave an overhang on the sides. Lightly grease the lining with nonstick spray to make removing the fudge a cinch once it’s set.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Mixture
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, butter, and salt. Stir continuously to prevent burning, until everything melts together into a silky, smooth mixture—this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. This slow and steady approach helps create that creamy fudge texture you want.
Step 3: Add Flavor and Fun
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for that subtle fragrant boost. Then, fold in 1 cup of your chopped candy bars. This is where your fudge turns from classic chocolate to a delightful candy-studded treat.
Step 4: Pour and Decorate
Pour the luscious fudge mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. If you’re feeling extra festive or want to add some contrast, press some extra chopped candies lightly into the top. It not only looks inviting but gives a great texture contrast.
Step 5: Chill Until Firm
Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to let the fudge set completely. This chilling time is necessary for the fudge to firm up into those perfect squares that are easy to cut and devour.
Step 6: Cut and Serve
Once firm, use the parchment overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan, then cut into about 25 squares. Now you have irresistible pieces of chocolate candy goodness ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Chocolate Candy Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
An extra sprinkle of sea salt on top can beautifully intensify the chocolate flavor, while a few more chopped candy pieces or chopped nuts add a lovely crunch and visual appeal. If you want to get fancy, a light dusting of cocoa powder or edible glitter works wonders too.
Side Dishes
This fudge pairs excellently with a hot cup of coffee or freshly brewed tea to balance the richness. For a festive spread, serve alongside fresh berries or a simple fruit salad to add freshness and lighten each bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Wrap individual fudge squares in colorful parchment paper or place them in mini cupcake liners for an adorable gift or party favor. Layer them in a decorative jar to give as a homemade present that’s sure to impress anyone on your list.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover fudge in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to one week, making it a perfect make-ahead treat for busy days or unexpected guests.
Freezing
If you want to keep your fudge for longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap and then place it inside a freezer-safe container. It will maintain its flavor and texture for up to two months.
Reheating
No need to worry about reheating fudge since it’s best served chilled or at room temperature. However, if it becomes too firm straight from the fridge, just let it sit out for a few minutes to soften naturally before serving.
FAQs
Can I use different types of chocolate in this recipe?
Absolutely! While semi-sweet chocolate chips are classic, you can experiment with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or a mix to suit your taste. Just keep an eye on melting times and adjust as needed.
What candy bars work best for the chopped candy?
Most candy bars work wonderfully since they add texture and flavor contrast. Favorites like Snickers, peanut butter cups, M&M’s, or even crushed peppermint bark are fantastic choices, especially around holidays.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes! This Chocolate Candy Fudge Recipe is incredibly straightforward, with only a few ingredients and simple steps, perfect for anyone new to fudge-making or cooking in general.
Can I make this fudge dairy-free or vegan?
This recipe relies on sweetened condensed milk and butter, so it’s not naturally dairy-free or vegan. However, you could try experimenting with plant-based condensed milk and vegan butter substitutes, though the texture might vary slightly.
How do I prevent the fudge from being grainy?
Low and slow melting is key. Stir constantly and avoid overheating, which can cause the chocolate to seize or the mixture to become grainy. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients also helps ensure a smooth finish.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Candy Fudge Recipe is the kind of treat that brings a smile with every bite and a sense of pride from making something so delicious at home. It’s approachable, customizable, and downright addictive. Whether you’re gifting it, sharing at a party, or savoring quietly on your own, I can’t recommend it highly enough. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a staple in your dessert lineup!
Print
Chocolate Candy Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 25 pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Chocolate Candy Fudge Recipe is a rich and creamy no-bake dessert that combines smooth semi-sweet chocolate with sweetened condensed milk and a variety of chopped candy bars for a delightful treat. Perfect for holidays or anytime you crave a sweet indulgence, this fudge is easy to prepare and sets beautifully in the fridge.
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Add-ins and Topping
- 1 cup chopped candy bars (such as Snickers, M&M’s, peanut butter cups, or your favorites)
- Extra chopped candy for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or foil, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the fudge out later. Lightly grease the lining with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Melt Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, unsalted butter, and salt. Stir continuously for about 5 to 7 minutes until the mixture is fully melted, smooth, and well blended. Remove the saucepan from heat.
- Add Flavor and Candy: Stir in the vanilla extract along with 1 cup of your chosen chopped candy bars, folding them evenly into the chocolate mixture to allow candy pieces to be distributed throughout the fudge.
- Pour and Decorate: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Press extra chopped candy lightly on top for a decorative finish, if desired.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours or until it is completely firm to the touch and easy to slice.
- Serve: Remove the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper overhang, cut into approximately 25 squares, and serve chilled. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes
- Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- For longer storage, freeze the fudge for up to 2 months and thaw before serving.
- Feel free to customize the fudge by mixing different candy bar combinations to suit holidays or personal preferences.
- Use parchment paper or foil with an overhang to easily remove the fudge from the pan without ruining the shape.
