Are you craving a sweet treat that's both incredibly delicious and surprisingly simple to make? Then look no further! This recipe for homemade chocolate fudge with mini marshmallows is perfect for satisfying your chocolate cravings and impressing your friends and family. It's one of those easy recipes that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Get ready to experience the ultimate indulgence with this easy, delicious, and healthy-ish (okay, maybe not that healthy!) dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 (12-ounce) package semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides to lift the fudge out easily later. This is a crucial step for easy serving and cleanup!
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
In a double boiler or a heat-safe bowl set over a pot of simmering water (make sure the bottom of the bowl doesn't touch the water), melt the chocolate chips, butter, and sweetened condensed milk together. Stir frequently until smooth and creamy. This gentle melting method prevents burning and ensures a perfectly smooth fudge.
Step 3: Stir in the Flavor
Remove the bowl from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. The vanilla enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully; don't skip this step!
Step 4: Add the Marshmallows
Gently fold in the mini marshmallows. Be careful not to overmix, as this can break the marshmallows.
Step 5: Set and Chill
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the fudge to set completely. This chilling time is essential for achieving the perfect fudge consistency.
Step 6: Cut and Serve
Once the fudge is firm, lift it out of the dish using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Fudge:
- Use high-quality chocolate: The better the chocolate, the better the fudge!
- Don't overcook the chocolate: Overheating can make the fudge grainy.
- Let it chill completely: Patience is key here! Allowing the fudge to chill fully ensures a firm, sliceable texture.
- Get creative with toppings: Sprinkle sea salt, chopped nuts, or chocolate shavings on top for an extra touch of deliciousness.
Variations:
- Peanut Butter Fudge: Add 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter to the melted chocolate mixture.
- Mint Chocolate Fudge: Add 1/4 cup of crushed peppermint candies along with the marshmallows.
- Salted Caramel Fudge: Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the set fudge before cutting.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For a general estimate, one serving (approximately 1-inch square) contains around 200-250 calories, with varying amounts of fat, sugar, and protein. This is a treat, so enjoy it in moderation!
This chocolate fudge recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks, holidays, or simply a sweet treat for yourself. Enjoy the homemade cooking experience and savor every bite of this delightful dessert!