Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge (Classic Southern Style)

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Ingredients

  • ⅔ cup evaporated milk
  • 1½ cups mini marshmallows
  • 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor – optional)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional but recommended)
  • Pinch of salt (optional, enhances chocolate flavor)

Instructions (Ready in Minutes!)

Prepare the Pan

  • Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  • Set aside so the fudge can be poured in immediately.

Heat the Base

  • In a medium saucepan, combine:
  • Evaporated milk
  • Mini marshmallows
  • Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.

Melt the Chocolate

  • Remove the pan from heat.
  • Add the chocolate chips and stir until fully melted and glossy.

Add the Good Stuff

  • Stir in:
  • Chopped pecans
  • Vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt (optional)

Set the Fudge

  • Pour the mixture into the prepared pan.
  • Smooth the top with a spatula.
  • Let it cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for 1–2 hours until firm.

Slice & Serve

  • Lift fudge out using parchment paper.
  • Cut into squares and enjoy!

Time & Yield

  • Prep time: 5 minutes
  • Chill time: 1–2 hours
  • Total time: About 10 active minutes
  • Yield: 16–20 rich squares

Flavor Variations (So Easy!)

  • Walnut Fudge: Swap pecans for walnuts
  • Peanut Butter Fudge: Stir in ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
  • Dark Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips for deeper flavor
  • Rocky Road: Add mini marshmallows + chopped almonds
  • Holiday Twist: Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top before chilling

Pro Tips for Perfect Fudge

Stir constantly to avoid scorching
Don’t overheat—remove from heat once marshmallows melt
Toast nuts for deeper flavor

Use parchment paper for clean slicing

A Little History

This style of fudge became popular in American kitchens during the mid-20th century when marshmallows and chocolate chips made candy-making accessible to everyone. Paula Deen helped make this version iconic by keeping it simple, fast, and indulgent, just like classic Southern desserts should be.

Why Everyone Loves

  • No baking required
  • Only a handful of ingredients
  • Ready in minutes
  • Creamy, rich, and nostalgic
    Perfect for sharing

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