Satisfy your sweet cravings in no time with Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge—a rich, chocolatey treat that comes together fast and delivers smooth, melt-in-your-mouth perfection.

Whether you're whipping up something sweet for a last-minute get-together or just want a quick dessert fix, this fudge is the answer. With no fancy equipment and just a few pantry staples, you’ll have a batch of homemade fudge cooling before you can even set the table.
Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any day that needs a dose of chocolate, Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge is as reliable as it is delicious. Let’s dive into this no-fail recipe and create a sweet bite of comfort in just minutes.
Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge: Fast, Foolproof, and Full of Flavor
This Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge recipe brings together evaporated milk, sugar, and chocolate for an easy, glossy fudge base. Marshmallows add fluffiness, while nuts give a crunchy contrast. Best of all, it sets up in no time—no candy thermometer needed.
With every bite, you get the creamy texture of a classic fudge, balanced by the richness of real chocolate. It’s a treat you can prep in minutes but enjoy for days.
Serving Suggestions:
Pro Tips for Perfect Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge
- Boil the Mixture for the Right Time: Stir constantly and make sure the sugar mixture boils for 4 to 5 minutes for proper texture.
- Add the Chocolate Off the Heat: Once boiling is done, remove the pan before adding chocolate and marshmallows to prevent scorching.
- Use Good Chocolate Chips: Quality chips melt better and give the fudge a smoother, richer finish.
- Fold in Nuts Gently: If using, mix them in at the end to keep their crunch and evenly distribute them throughout the fudge.
- Line the Pan Well: Foil or parchment paper with overhang makes it easy to lift the fudge out and cut it cleanly.

Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge Recipe:
- Preparation time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 5 minutes
- Cooling time: 2 hours
- Servings: 36 squares
- Equipment: 8x8-inch baking dish, saucepan, rubber spatula, parchment paper or foil
This Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge is a chocolate lover’s dream—creamy, sweet, and ready faster than most desserts. It’s an easy win for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- ⅔ cup evaporated milk
- 1 and ⅔ cups granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 and ½ cups mini marshmallows
- 1 and ½ cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Directions:
- Prep the Dish: Line an 8x8-inch square baking dish with foil or parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease it.
- Start the Base: In a medium saucepan, combine evaporated milk, granulated sugar, and salt. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Bring to a Boil: Keep stirring and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Let it boil for 4–5 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Mix in the Chocolate and Marshmallows: Remove from heat. Immediately stir in the mini marshmallows and semisweet chocolate chips. Stir quickly until completely melted and smooth.
- Add Flavor and Crunch: Stir in the vanilla extract. If using chopped nuts, fold them in gently at this stage.
- Pour and Set: Transfer the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula and tap gently to settle.
- Let It Cool: Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for about 2 hours. For faster setting, refrigerate for about 1 hour until firm.
- Slice and Serve: Lift the set fudge out using the parchment or foil overhang. Place on a cutting board and slice into bite-sized squares.
Ready to Relish!
Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge delivers big flavor with very little effort. It’s smooth, rich, and always a hit at the dessert table. Whether you dress it up with nuts or enjoy it plain, it’s a treat that brings smiles in every square.
Storage Solutions:
Keep the fudge stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’d like to extend its shelf life, refrigerate it for up to 2 weeks. For long-term storage, freeze cut squares in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Let thaw at room temperature before serving for best texture.
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Paula Deen's 5-Minute Fudge
This Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge is a chocolate lover’s dream—creamy, sweet, and ready faster than most desserts. It’s an easy win for any occasion.
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 36 squares 1x
Ingredients
-
⅔ cup evaporated milk
-
1 and ⅔ cups granulated sugar
-
½ teaspoon salt
-
1 and ½ cups mini marshmallows
-
1 and ½ cups semisweet chocolate chips
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
-
Prep the Dish: Line an 8x8-inch square baking dish with foil or parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease it.
-
Start the Base: In a medium saucepan, combine evaporated milk, granulated sugar, and salt. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
-
Bring to a Boil: Keep stirring and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Let it boil for 4–5 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
-
Mix in the Chocolate and Marshmallows: Remove from heat. Immediately stir in the mini marshmallows and semisweet chocolate chips. Stir quickly until completely melted and smooth.
-
Add Flavor and Crunch: Stir in the vanilla extract. If using chopped nuts, fold them in gently at this stage.
-
Pour and Set: Transfer the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula and tap gently to settle.
-
Let It Cool: Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for about 2 hours. For faster setting, refrigerate for about 1 hour until firm.
-
Slice and Serve: Lift the set fudge out using the parchment or foil overhang. Place on a cutting board and slice into bite-sized squares.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes






