Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge: The Quick and Creamy Dessert You’ll Crave

Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge: The Quick and Creamy Dessert You’ll Crave

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Introduction:

There are those recipes that instantly bring back memories—the kind that remind you of cozy family kitchens, warm smiles, and a little bit of extra sweetness in your day. Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge is exactly that kind of recipe. With just a handful of ingredients and a mere five minutes of your time, you can make this decadently rich and creamy fudge that will make you wonder how something so delicious can be so simple.

This fudge is the epitome of comfort food—a dessert that doesn’t require hours of preparation or complicated techniques, but delivers a melt-in-your-mouth experience that everyone will love. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this fudge recipe will make you feel like a pro. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, as an easy homemade gift, or just to satisfy that sweet tooth on a busy afternoon.

But here’s the best part: It’s truly a 5-minute fudge. No, we’re not kidding. You can get this treat from ingredients to mouthwatering squares in less time than it takes to preheat most ovens. Ready to make the quickest, creamiest fudge ever? Let’s dive in!

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Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge

Ingredients:

• 1 2/3 cups white sugar

• 2/3 cup evaporated milk

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 (6 ounce) package milk chocolate chips

• 16 large marshmallows

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 1 cup chopped nuts

Directions:

1. Combine sugar, milk, butter, and salt in a medium-sized saucepan. Bring to a boil and cook for 5 minutes, stirring constantly.

2. Add in chocolate chips and cook until melted.

3. Remove from heat; stir in marshmallows, vanilla, and nuts. Mix well.

4. Pour into an 8-inch pan.

5. Cool and cut into squares.

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Additional Content

Cooking Tips & Possible Substitutions:

The best part about Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge is its versatility. While the original recipe is perfect, you can make a few substitutions to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas to get your creative fudge-making juices flowing:

• Chocolate: While milk chocolate chips are the classic choice here, you can switch it up with dark chocolate or even white chocolate chips if you’re craving a lighter or more decadent taste.

• Nuts: This recipe calls for chopped nuts, but feel free to get creative. Walnuts, pecans, or almonds all work wonderfully, or you could skip them altogether for a nut-free version. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some crushed cookies, toffee bits, or even coconut flakes for an extra flavor kick!

• Marshmallows: Using large marshmallows creates that signature chewy texture, but you could use mini marshmallows if you want them to melt into the fudge more easily.

When and How to Serve:

• Holiday Treats: Fudge is always a hit during the holidays. Whether you’re gifting it in little tins, adding it to a dessert table, or simply indulging while watching a holiday movie, it’s sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.

• Quick Dessert: Got a craving for something sweet but no time to bake? This fudge recipe is your answer. You can whip it up in just five minutes, and it’s perfect for satisfying that dessert urge at any time.

• Perfect for Parties: Serve this fudge as a delightful dessert at your next gathering. You can cut it into small squares and present it on a tray—simple, yet elegant.

Storage & Freezing Tips:

• Storage: If you have leftovers (and that’s a big if!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also refrigerate the fudge to keep it firm for longer.

• Freezing: Want to make a big batch and enjoy it later? Freeze the fudge! Wrap individual squares in wax paper and store them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready for a treat, just pull one or two out and let them thaw at room temperature. It’s like a mini holiday every time you indulge!

Short FAQ:

1. How long does it take for the fudge to cool?
This fudge will need to cool for about 1–2 hours before you can cut it into squares. If you’re in a rush, you can place it in the fridge to speed up the cooling process.

2. Can I use sweetened condensed milk instead of evaporated milk?
Sweetened condensed milk is a bit thicker and sweeter, so it’s not the best substitute for evaporated milk in this recipe. However, if you use it, you might want to reduce the sugar to avoid making the fudge too sweet.

3. What should I do if the fudge is too soft?
If your fudge is too soft after cooling, it may not have been cooked long enough. Next time, make sure to boil the mixture for a full 5 minutes, stirring constantly. You can also refrigerate it to help it set more firmly.

4. Can I make this fudge without the nuts?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of nuts or have allergies to consider, feel free to omit them entirely. The fudge will still be rich, creamy, and absolutely delicious.