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  • Rocky Road Fudge Recipe

    I’ve got a confession to make—Rocky Road Fudge is my absolute weakness. There’s something magical about that perfect blend of chocolate, marshmallows, and nuts that makes my taste buds do a happy dance. Want to know the best part? You don’t need fancy equipment or pastry chef skills to whip up this decadent treat. Just six simple ingredients, fifteen minutes of your time, and you’ll have a dessert that’ll make everyone wonder if you’ve been hiding professional culinary training. Curious about what makes this fudge so irresistible?

    Why You’ll Love this Rocky Road Fudge

    Whether you’re a seasoned candy maker or a total beginner, this Rocky Road Fudge will become your new go-to treat. I’m obsessed with how simple it is—just six ingredients and no candy thermometer required!

    The contrast between creamy chocolate, pillowy marshmallows, and crunchy nuts creates the perfect texture in every bite.

    What’s not to love about a dessert that takes less than 15 minutes of active time? The hardest part is waiting for it to set in the fridge, trust me.

    Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. Don’t like walnuts? Swap in pecans. Want it extra chocolatey? Add some cocoa powder. Need a last-minute gift? Cut into squares, wrap in parchment, and you’ll look like a confectionery genius.

    What Ingredients are in Rocky Road Fudge?

    This classic no-bake treat requires just a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create that signature rocky road texture and flavor.

    • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
    • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
    • 1 cup mini marshmallows
    • 1 cup chopped walnuts or almonds
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • Pinch of salt

    While the recipe calls for walnuts or almonds, you could easily customize with your favorite nuts—pecans work wonderfully too—or even mix in some additional goodies like dried cranberries or shredded coconut for your own unique twist on this classic fudge.

    How to Make this Rocky Road Fudge

    Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

    Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

    This simple prep step will save you so much hassle when it’s time to lift out your finished fudge.

    Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

    In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, combine 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips with the 14 oz can of sweetened condensed milk.

    The condensed milk gives this fudge its incredible richness and smooth texture without having to worry about temperamental sugar crystals.

    Step 3: Stir Until Smooth

    Gently stir the chocolate and condensed milk mixture until completely smooth and glossy.

    Now’s the perfect time to add your teaspoon of vanilla extract and that pinch of salt, which might seem tiny but actually enhances the chocolate flavor in the most magical way.

    Step 4: Cool Slightly

    Allow your chocolate mixture to cool slightly before adding the marshmallows and nuts.

    Nobody wants melted marshmallows in rocky road fudge—the whole point is those pillowy bites of sweetness contrasting with the rich chocolate!

    Step 5: Fold in Add-ins

    Gently fold in 1 cup of mini marshmallows and 1 cup of chopped walnuts or almonds, being careful not to overmix.

    The folding technique keeps those marshmallows intact and distributes everything evenly through that decadent chocolate base.

    Step 6: Transfer to Pan

    Pour the rocky road mixture into your prepared pan and use a spatula to spread it evenly to the edges.

    A slightly offset spatula works wonders here if you have one handy.

    Using a premium stainless steel cookware set ensures even heat distribution when melting your chocolate for perfectly smooth fudge consistency.

    Step 7: Chill Until Set

    Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours, or until completely firm.

    Patience is a virtue with fudge—rushing this step will only lead to a gooey mess when you try to cut it.

    Step 8: Slice and Serve

    Remove the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper overhang and cut into squares with a warm knife for clean edges.

    Running your knife under hot water between cuts makes slicing through those marshmallows and nuts so much easier.

    What to Serve with Rocky Road Fudge

    Rocky Road fudge is the star of any dessert spread, but it plays nicely with others too!

    For a cozy dessert night, pair squares of this rich chocolate treat with a steaming mug of coffee or hot chocolate—the warm drink cuts through the sweetness perfectly. If you’re hosting, arrange fudge pieces on a platter alongside fresh berries and vanilla ice cream for a DIY dessert bar that guests will love.

    For a more sophisticated pairing, try serving with a glass of port wine or even a bourbon nightcap.

    And don’t overlook the simple pleasure of a cold glass of milk, which remains the ultimate companion to this indulgent treat. Rocky Road fudge makes an excellent afternoon pick-me-up or after-dinner dessert when you need something sweet but substantial.

    Rocky Road Fudge Substitutions and Variations

    • Chocolate Options: Try white chocolate or milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet.

    Dark chocolate fans can go with 60% cacao for a less sweet treat.

    • Nut Alternatives: Swap walnuts or almonds for pecans, pistachios, or even peanuts.

    For nut allergies, substitute with sunflower seeds or crispy rice cereal for that needed crunch.

    • Dietary Adjustments: Make it dairy-free with coconut condensed milk and dairy-free chocolate chips.

    For vegan versions, use vegan marshmallows (they exist!).

    • Fun Mix-ins: Dried cranberries add tartness, while crushed pretzels bring a salty twist.

    Try stirring in crushed candy canes for holiday fudge or a tablespoon of espresso powder for mocha rocky road.

    • Finishing Touches: Sprinkle sea salt on top before chilling for that sweet-salty magic, or drizzle with caramel sauce or white chocolate for extra decadence.

    Leftovers and Storage for this Rocky Road Fudge

    This fudge is the gift that keeps on giving! Store your rocky road treasure in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it’ll stay fresh and fabulous for up to two weeks.

    For longer storage (if it somehow survives that long), cut into pieces, separate with parchment paper, and freeze for up to three months.

    When you’re ready to enjoy frozen fudge, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight—never at room temperature, unless you fancy a melty mess.

    Let refrigerated pieces sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving for that perfect bite.

    Pro tip: The flavor actually develops overnight, making day-two fudge even better than fresh!

    Just remember that warm knife trick for cutting—run it under hot water, wipe clean, then slice for picture-perfect pieces every time.

    Final Thoughts

    There’s something truly magical about rocky road fudge—that perfect balance of rich chocolate, pillowy marshmallows, and crunchy nuts creates a texture adventure in every bite.

    This no-fuss recipe requires minimal ingredients yet delivers maximum impact, making it perfect for holiday gift-giving, weekend family projects, or those moments when chocolate cravings demand satisfaction.

    Whether you’re an experienced candy maker or a kitchen novice, this approachable treat rewards with creamy, decadent results.

    As the seasons change and gatherings fill our calendars, this rocky road fudge stands ready to become part of your sweet tradition, waiting patiently in the refrigerator for whenever comfort calls.

    And if you’re looking for another delightful homemade confection, consider trying peanut butter truffles which offer a similar make-ahead convenience with a different flavor profile.

  • Creamy Homemade Fudge Recipe

    I’ve been on a quest for the perfect fudge recipe—you know, the kind that’s silky smooth and melts on your tongue. Making fudge might seem intimidating, but trust me, this creamy homemade version is surprisingly simple. With just a few pantry staples and about 30 minutes, you’ll have a decadent treat that rivals anything from those fancy candy shops. Want to know my secret ingredient that guarantees velvety results every time?

    Why You’ll Love this Creamy Homemade Fudge

    Chocolate lovers, get ready for a treat that’ll make your taste buds dance. This old-fashioned fudge recipe delivers that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture that store-bought versions just can’t match.

    I’m obsessed with how this recipe strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and decadence. With basic ingredients like sugar, evaporated milk, and chocolate chips, you can create something truly magical.

    The mini marshmallows? They’re the secret to that smooth, creamy consistency.

    What’s not to love about a dessert that comes together in under 30 minutes? And while the waiting for it to cool might test your patience, trust me, it’s worth every minute.

    Rich, velvety, and impossibly smooth—this is the kind of treat that disappears from the plate before you can say “second piece.”

    What Ingredients are in Creamy Homemade Fudge?

    To create this irresistible old-fashioned fudge, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients that transform into something magical when combined.

    • 2 cups granulated sugar
    • ⅔ cup evaporated milk (not sweetened condensed milk)
    • 2 tablespoons butter
    • ¼ teaspoon salt
    • 2 cups mini marshmallows
    • 1 cup chocolate chips
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

    The quality of your chocolate chips can make a noticeable difference in the final flavor, so if you’re feeling fancy, splurging on premium chocolate might take your fudge from delicious to absolutely divine—though honestly, even with standard chips, this recipe creates a treat that’ll have everyone asking for more.

    How to Make this Creamy Homemade Fudge

    Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

    Butter an 8-inch square pan generously, making sure to get into the corners. This simple step prevents sticking and makes for clean, beautiful fudge squares later on. For the most professional results, consider using a premium pan set that provides even heat distribution for perfectly set fudge.

    Step 2: Combine Base Ingredients

    In a medium saucepan, mix 2 cups granulated sugar, ⅔ cup evaporated milk, 2 tablespoons butter, and ¼ teaspoon salt. These four simple ingredients form the foundation of your fudge masterpiece.

    Step 3: Bring to a Boil

    Place your saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Remember, fudge requires attention—this isn’t the time to multitask with your phone nearby.

    Step 4: Cook to Perfection

    Boil the mixture for exactly 5 minutes, still stirring constantly. For best results, clip on a candy thermometer and cook until it reaches 234°F (soft-ball stage), which gives you that perfect, creamy texture.

    Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients

    Remove the pan from heat and immediately add 2 cups mini marshmallows, 1 cup chocolate chips, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. The residual heat will melt everything together into a glossy, chocolatey dream.

    Step 6: Stir Until Smooth

    Stir the mixture vigorously until completely smooth and glossy. This might take a couple of minutes, but patience yields perfectly silky fudge—no grainy texture allowed.

    Step 7: Pour and Set

    Pour the finished fudge into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Those little ripples on top? They’re part of homemade fudge’s charm.

    Step 8: Cool Completely

    Allow your fudge to cool completely at room temperature before cutting into squares. The waiting is torture, I know, but rushing this step ruins the texture we’ve worked so hard to achieve.

    What to Serve with Creamy Homemade Fudge

    Let’s be honest—this rich, chocolatey fudge is perfect on its own, but why stop there? A small scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside a warm piece of fudge creates that magical hot-and-cold contrast that makes dessert memorable.

    For afternoon snacking, pair squares with a steaming cup of black coffee or chai tea to balance the sweetness.

    If you’re hosting, arrange fudge pieces on a dessert board with fresh strawberries and raspberries—the tartness cuts through the richness beautifully.

    And for the ultimate midnight snack? A cold glass of milk and a piece of fudge is practically medicinal for the soul.

    Whenever I serve this at gatherings, I notice people instinctively reach for something to drink, so plan accordingly!

    Creamy Homemade Fudge Substitutions and Variations

    • Milk Options: No evaporated milk? Regular whole milk works in a pinch, but reduce to ½ cup for proper consistency.

    For dairy-free fudge, try full-fat coconut milk.

    • Sweetener Swaps: Replace up to half the sugar with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.

    Honey or maple syrup (reduce by ¼ cup) offer natural alternatives.

    • Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter, dairy-free chocolate chips, and vegan marshmallows (or substitute with 2 tablespoons coconut cream).
    • Fun Mix-ins: Fold in chopped nuts, crushed peppermint candies, or swirl in peanut butter before cooling.
    • Flavor Twists: Add ½ teaspoon peppermint extract for holiday fudge, or replace vanilla with almond extract for cherry-almond flavor (add dried cherries too!).
    • Toppings: Before setting, sprinkle with flaky sea salt, colored sprinkles, or crushed cookie pieces for extra texture and visual appeal.

    Leftovers and Storage for this Creamy Homemade Fudge

    This fudge keeps beautifully when stored properly. Here’s how to make your sweet treats last:

    • Store fudge in an airtight container with wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. At room temperature, it stays fresh for 1-2 weeks in a cool, dry spot.
    • For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 3 weeks. The fridge can make fudge a bit firmer—just let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before enjoying.
    • Freezer fanatics, rejoice! Wrap fudge pieces individually in plastic, then place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
    • If your fudge starts to dry out (though it rarely lasts long enough for that to happen!), place a slice of bread in the container—the moisture works wonders.

    Many say fudge actually tastes better after a day or two when the flavors have fully melded together.

    Final Thoughts

    There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about cooking up a batch of traditional fudge. This recipe, with its perfect balance of chocolate richness and marshmallow creaminess, creates that authentic texture we all crave—firm yet melt-in-your-mouth smooth.

    It’s particularly perfect for holiday gift-giving or weekend family gatherings when comfort sweets bring everyone together. The beauty lies in its simplicity: just a few basic ingredients transformed through the magic of careful heating and cooling.

    When winter winds blow or special occasions call for something homemade with love, this old-fashioned fudge recipe stands ready to become part of your family’s sweet traditions. For a more textured variation, try making Rocky Road Fudge with mini marshmallows and nuts for a delightful crunch contrast.