Diane'S Homemade Fudge

Prep: 10 min Cook: 8 min Serves: 72 Cuisine: American

Rich, smooth, and chocolatey fudge with crunchy pecans, perfect for sharing during holidays or gifting friends. A nostalgic treat loved by all chocolate enthusiasts.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 2 (12 oz.) bags semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 (10 oz.) bag miniature marshmallows
  • 1 large can evaporated milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups pecans
  • 4 1/2 cups sugar

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, combine sugar and evaporated milk.
  2. Cook until it comes to a rolling boil.
  3. Do not boil for more than 8 minutes. Remove from heat.
  4. Add semi-sweet chocolate chips, miniature marshmallows, vanilla extract, butter, and pecans.
  5. Mix well until smooth and combined.
  6. Spread the mixture on an ungreased large baking sheet.
  7. Let cool completely.
  8. Cut into small squares to serve.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smoother texture, ensure the butter is completely melted before mixing it with the other ingredients. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes. To make it a bit healthier, consider using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. Also, be careful not to overboil the mixture; 8 minutes is the maximum time to ensure the fudge sets properly.

Serving Suggestions

Cut the fudge into small squares and serve it as a delightful dessert at gatherings or parties. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or alongside some Pretty Maple Carrots for a unique contrast of flavors. For a festive touch, consider wrapping pieces in decorative foil as gifts for friends and family.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a month. If you'd like to enjoy it warm, simply microwave small portions for about 10-15 seconds, just until slightly softened.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Diane'S Homemade Fudge contains roughly 3410 calories, with 8g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 291g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (65% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (40% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin D. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

3410 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 8.1g 16% DV
Total Fat 290.7g 100% DV
Carbs 93g 34% DV
Fiber 6.8g 24% DV
Sugar 48.7g 97% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 399.8mg 17% DV
Potassium 578.2mg 12% DV
Cholesterol 600mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 357.5mcg 40% DV
Vitamin C 25.5mg 28% DV
Vitamin D 2.6mcg 13% DV
Calcium 284.6mg 22% DV
Iron 11.7mg 65% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Milk Tree nuts

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 a different type of chocolate for this fudge?

Yes, you can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips based on your preference. Keep in mind that the sweetness level may change slightly, so adjust the sugar if you prefer a less sweet fudge.

What should I do if my fudge doesn't set properly?

If your fudge is too soft, you can try refrigerating it for a few hours. If it still doesn't set, consider melting it down again and adding a bit more sugar or evaporated milk to achieve the right consistency before re-setting it.

Can this fudge be made vegan?

To make a vegan version, you can replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips. Be sure to check the marshmallows as many contain gelatin, which is not vegan. There are vegan marshmallow options available in stores.

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).

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