Are you craving a decadent dessert but short on time? Look no further! This easy Nestle fudge recipe is the perfect solution for satisfying your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen. This homemade treat is incredibly simple, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, making it ideal for beginner bakers and experienced cooks alike. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this rich, creamy, and utterly irresistible fudge!
Ingredients:
- 1 (12-ounce) package Nestle semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or your favorite!), mini marshmallows, or chocolate shavings for added texture and flavor.
Instructions:
Step 1: Melting Magic
Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the fudge out later. This is a crucial step for easy removal and clean-up!
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the butter and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly until the butter is completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Low and slow is key here – you want to avoid scorching the milk.
Step 2: Chocolate Symphony
Remove the saucepan from the heat and gently stir in the Nestle chocolate chips until they are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy. A spatula works best for this to ensure all the chocolate is incorporated evenly.
Step 3: Flavor Infusion
Stir in the vanilla extract. If using, add your desired mix-ins (nuts, marshmallows, etc.) and gently fold them into the chocolate mixture.
Step 4: Setting the Stage
Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula. This ensures a consistent thickness and prevents air pockets.
Step 5: Chill Out
Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours, or until it is firm enough to cut into squares. The longer it chills, the firmer it will become.
Step 6: Sweet Success
Once the fudge is firm, lift it out of the dish using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Fudge:
- Use quality chocolate: The better the chocolate, the better the fudge will taste.
- Low and slow: Melting the butter and milk over low heat prevents scorching and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
- Don't overmix: Once the chocolate is melted, avoid overmixing, as this can incorporate air bubbles and make the fudge less smooth.
- Proper chilling: Allow the fudge to chill completely before cutting to prevent it from crumbling.
Variations:
- Peanut Butter Fudge: Add 1/2 cup peanut butter to the mixture along with the chocolate chips.
- Mint Chocolate Fudge: Add 1-2 teaspoons of peppermint extract.
- White Chocolate Fudge: Substitute white chocolate chips for semi-sweet chocolate chips.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your fudge squares and any added ingredients. For a general estimate using the recipe as written, expect around 200-250 calories, 10-15g of fat, and 25-30g of sugar per serving. This is a treat best enjoyed in moderation!
This easy Nestle fudge recipe is perfect for any occasion – from holiday gatherings to a simple weeknight indulgence. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that's both delicious and surprisingly easy to make. So grab your ingredients and get ready to create some sweet memories!