A quick welcome to Fantasy Fudge
This Fantasy Fudge is rich, creamy, and easy to make. It combines sugar, butter, evaporated milk, chocolate chips, and marshmallow creme into a smooth, classic fudge that people love. If you like quick candy recipes, this will fit right in with other easy sweets like this warm chocolate pudding cake idea: Warm chocolate dessert idea.
Reasons this fudge is worth making
- Fast to prepare and needs no candy thermometer.
- Very chocolatey and smooth thanks to the marshmallow creme.
- Great for holidays, gifts, or a simple treat at home.
Step-by-step: Making Fantasy Fudge
This method follows the classic approach: cook the sugar mixture, add chocolate and marshmallow creme off the heat, stir until smooth, then chill.
What you need
- 3 cups white sugar
- 3/4 cup butter
- 2/3 cup evaporated milk
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 jar marshmallow creme (7 oz)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional) — walnuts or pecans recommended
If you’re interested in a very simple, lower-ingredient fudge idea, check this easy two-ingredient version: Simple healthy fudge idea.
Simple directions
- Grease an 8×8 or 9×9 inch pan and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, butter, and evaporated milk. Bring to a full rolling boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Once it reaches a full boil, keep it boiling for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring the whole time.
- Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
- Add the marshmallow creme and vanilla. Stir until well combined and glossy.
- Fold in the chopped nuts if you like.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Chill in the refrigerator until set, about 2 hours.
- Cut into squares and serve.
How to present Fantasy Fudge
Cut the fudge into small squares. Arrange on a plate or in small paper liners for a pretty look. If you plan a dessert table, you can pair fudge squares with slices of ice cream cake or other rich sweets like this: Ice cream cake slice idea.
Keeping your fudge fresh
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. Let it sit at room temperature a few minutes before serving so it’s soft enough to bite.
- For longer storage, freeze well-wrapped pieces for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge.
Tips for perfect Fantasy Fudge
- Stir constantly while boiling to prevent burning and grainy texture.
- Use full-strength evaporated milk, not regular milk.
- Remove from heat before adding chocolate so it melts smoothly.
- If your fudge looks grainy, beat it vigorously after adding the marshmallow creme to smooth it out.
- Use fresh marshmallow creme for the best texture.
Easy variations
- Nut-free: skip the nuts for a smooth, nut-free treat.
- Peanut butter swirl: stir in 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter after removing from heat.
- Dark chocolate: swap semi-sweet chips for dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
- Holiday mix-ins: add crushed peppermint or toffee pieces on top before chilling.
Nutrition notes
Values vary by serving size. For one small square (about 24 pieces per batch), a rough estimate:
- Calories: ~200–250
- Fat: ~9–12 g
- Sugar: ~24–30 g
These are rough numbers. If you need exact nutrition, calculate using your brands and serving sizes.
Family serving ideas
- Make small plates with 2–3 squares per person for a sweet finish after a family meal.
- Pack small boxes or tins for neighbors and relatives.
- Use as a treat for bake sales or school events (note any nut presence on labels).
What to serve with this fudge
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs well with warm fudge squares.
- Fresh fruit like strawberries or sliced bananas can balance the richness.
- Coffee or strong tea cuts the sweetness nicely.
Common questions
Q: Can I use regular marshmallows instead of marshmallow creme?
A: You can, but marshmallow creme gives a smoother texture. If you use marshmallows, melt them gently and be sure they fully blend into the chocolate.
Q: Do I need to use evaporated milk?
A: Yes. Evaporated milk makes the texture and cooking behavior correct. Regular milk has too much water and won’t set the same way.
Q: Can I skip the nuts?
A: Absolutely. Nuts are optional and you can leave them out for a nut-free treat.
Q: How long will the fudge keep in the freezer?
A: Wrapped well, it will keep for about 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Conclusion
If you want to compare versions and the original method, try consulting the classic write-ups like The Original Fantasy Fudge Recipe, a step-by-step marshmallow creme guide at Original Fantasy Fudge Recipe (Marshmallow Creme!), or a detailed blog version with photos at Original Fantasy Fudge Recipe – i am baker.
Fantasy Fudge
Ingredients
Fudge Ingredients
- 3 cups white sugar
- 3/4 cup butter
- 2/3 cup evaporated milk Use full-strength evaporated milk for the correct texture.
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 7 ounces marshmallow creme Fresh marshmallow creme is recommended.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional) — walnuts or pecans recommended Nuts are optional for a nut-free treat.
Instructions
Preparation
- Grease an 8×8 or 9×9 inch pan and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, butter, and evaporated milk. Bring to a full rolling boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Once it reaches a full boil, keep it boiling for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring the whole time.
- Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
- Add the marshmallow creme and vanilla. Stir until well combined and glossy.
- Fold in the chopped nuts if you like.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Chill in the refrigerator until set, about 2 hours.
- Cut into squares and serve.
