Are you craving a decadent dessert but short on time? This no-bake fudge recipe is the perfect solution! It's incredibly easy, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers a rich, chocolatey indulgence that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Forget complicated baking techniques – this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous dessert cravings. Prepare to impress your friends and family with this simple yet stunning homemade treat. It's the ultimate quick dinner idea dessert!
Ingredients:
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12-ounce) package semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (or other nut butter)
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or your favorite)
- Optional: Sea salt flakes for sprinkling
Instructions:
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Prep Your Ingredients: Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the fudge out later. This makes for easy serving and cleanup. Gather all your ingredients and measure them out beforehand for a smoother cooking process.
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Melt the Chocolate: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can seize up.
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Combine the Wet Ingredients: Stir in the sweetened condensed milk, peanut butter, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined and creamy. If you're adding nuts, fold them in now.
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Pour and Set: Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula.
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Chill and Enjoy: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is firm. Once set, lift the fudge out of the dish using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and sprinkle with sea salt flakes (optional) before serving.
Tips for the Best No-Bake Fudge:
- Use good quality chocolate: The better the chocolate, the better the fudge will taste!
- Don't overheat the chocolate: Overheating can cause the chocolate to seize up and become grainy. Microwave in short intervals and stir frequently.
- Let it chill completely: Allowing the fudge to chill for at least two hours ensures it sets properly and is easy to cut.
- Get creative with mix-ins: Experiment with different nuts, dried fruit, or even chocolate shavings for added flavor and texture.
Variations:
- Mint Chocolate Fudge: Add 1-2 teaspoons of peppermint extract to the mixture.
- Salted Caramel Fudge: Stir in 1/4 cup of caramel sauce.
- Peanut Butter Cup Fudge: Press mini peanut butter cups into the fudge before chilling.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate for one serving (assuming a 16-serving recipe) is:
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Sugar: 25-30g
This easy no-bake fudge recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings quickly. It's a delicious and easy dessert for any occasion, making it one of the best recipes for those looking for healthy meals that are also incredibly tasty! Enjoy!