5-Pound Chocolate Fudge
Rich, creamy chocolate fudge with crunchy pecans and smooth marshmallow flavor, perfect for sharing during holidays or gifting to sweet tooths. A classic American treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar, evaporated milk, and margarine in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil and cook for 15 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and stir in marshmallow cream and chocolate chips until the chocolate melts.
- Add pecans and vanilla to the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered pan.
- Allow to cool and then cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier fudge, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you want a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans or substitute with sunflower seeds. Ensure to stir constantly to prevent burning, especially as the mixture thickens. For a twist, add a pinch of sea salt to enhance the chocolate flavor. This fudge is a great addition to holiday treats, alongside options like Moist German Chocolate Cake.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the fudge into small squares for serving, as it's quite rich. It pairs beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee. For extra indulgence, serve it alongside Chocolate Chip Sour Cream Cake or use it as a topping for ice cream. This makes a delightful dessert platter for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a month. To reheat, cut into squares and microwave in short bursts, just enough to soften without melting completely. This way, it retains its rich texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 5-Pound Chocolate Fudge contains roughly 445 calories, with 5g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use sweetened condensed milk instead of evaporated milk?
Yes, you can substitute sweetened condensed milk for evaporated milk, but reduce the sugar in the recipe by at least half, as sweetened condensed milk is much sweeter. This will help maintain the right balance of flavors in your fudge.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you're looking for a nut-free option, you can simply omit the pecans or replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds. Alternatively, other nuts like walnuts or almonds can be used for a different flavor profile.
How do I know when the fudge is done cooking?
The fudge is ready when it reaches a soft-ball stage, which is around 234-240°F (112-115°C) on a candy thermometer. If you don't have a thermometer, you can test by dropping a small amount of the mixture in cold water; it should form a soft ball that holds its shape.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).