Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge: A Holiday Treat You’ll Want to Savor

There’s something magical about the holidays, isn’t there? The twinkling lights, cozy sweaters, and, of course, the desserts that make every gathering feel like a celebration. If you’re looking for a quick, decadent treat to wow your friends and family, look no further than Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge . Rich, creamy, and studded with crunchy pecans, this fudge is the perfect addition to any dessert table—or just a quiet night in by the fire. Let me tell you why this recipe has earned its place as one of my all-time favorites.

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Introduction

I’ll never forget the first time I made Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge. It was Christmas Eve, and I had procrastinated on baking gifts for my neighbors (oops). With only 30 minutes before my kids would inevitably start asking, “Are we done yet?” I stumbled across this recipe online. Five minutes later, I was pouring a velvety chocolate mixture into a pan, feeling like some kind of holiday dessert wizard. By the time Santa arrived, so did trays of perfectly set, melt-in-your-mouth fudge squares. My neighbors raved about Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge, and honestly, so did I—it’s THAT good.

The holiday season always calls for quick and delicious treats, and Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge is a game-changer. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a rich, chocolatey dessert that melts in your mouth. The key to perfect fudge lies in using high-quality chocolate and the right mixing technique. If you’re curious about the science behind chocolate tempering, it can help you achieve that smooth, glossy texture.

If you’ve ever thought making fudge sounds complicated or time-consuming, think again. This recipe proves that simplicity can still deliver big flavor. Ready to dive in?

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Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to create this luscious treat:

• 2/3 cup evaporated milk (the secret to that silky texture )
• 1 2/3 cups granulated sugar (sweetness perfection )
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (balances the sweetness )
• 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows (adds creaminess without extra effort )
• 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips (rich cocoa goodness )
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (warmth and depth of flavor )
• 1 cup chopped pecans (crunchy, nutty contrast )

Pro Tip: Personalize Your Fudge

Not a fan of pecans? Swap them out for walnuts, almonds, or even omit them entirely for a smooth fudge. For an extra festive touch, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top before the fudge sets. Want to go peanut butter crazy? Swirl in a few tablespoons of creamy peanut butter during the melting step—it’s divine.

Interactive Ingredient Checklist: [ ] Evaporated milk [ ] Granulated sugar [ ] Salt [ ] Mini marshmallows [ ] Chocolate chips [ ] Vanilla extract [ ] Chopped pecans

The best desserts and comfort foods often come from unexpected moments in the kitchen. When I first tried making Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge, I was amazed by how effortlessly a rich, melt-in-your-mouth treat could come together. But if you’re in the mood for something even more indulgent, you might love this Caramel Pecan Delight Pie—a heavenly combination of gooey caramel and crunchy pecans. And for those craving a savory twist, nothing beats the layers of cheese and sauce in this Million Dollar Lasagna, a true comfort food classic!

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Timing

Let’s break down the timing:

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: ~8–10 minutes
• Cooling/Set Time: ~2 hours
• Total Time: ~2 hours 15 minutes

Yes, technically it takes longer than five minutes, but most of that time is hands-off while the fudge sets. Trust me, it’s worth the wait.

Time-Saving Hack: Make Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge ahead of time! Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, or freeze slices for up to three months. Just thaw overnight before serving.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat the Mixture

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the evaporated milk, sugar, and salt. Stir continuously to prevent sticking or burning. Bring the mixture to a boil—this step is crucial for achieving that smooth, fudgy consistency.

Kitchen Hack: Use a nonstick saucepan to minimize cleanup and ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.

Melt the Marshmallows & Chocolate

Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly and stir in the mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract. Keep stirring until everything melts together into a glossy, dreamy chocolate mixture—just like in Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge recipe.

Why Mini Marshmallows? Their small size means they dissolve quickly and evenly, creating a lush, creamy base without lumps.

Add the Pecans

Fold in the chopped pecans, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the fudge. This adds a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate.

Fun Fact: Pecans are native to North America and have been enjoyed since colonial times. They add not only texture but also a boost of healthy fats and antioxidants.

Set the Fudge

Pour the fudge mixture into a greased 8×8-inch pan and spread it evenly using a spatula. Lightly tap the pan on the counter to release air bubbles.

Pro Tip: Line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal once the fudge has set.

Cool & Serve

Allow the fudge to cool completely at room temperature until firm, about 2 hours. Once set, cut it into squares and serve.

Serving Suggestion: For an extra special touch, dust the tops of Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge with powdered sugar or drizzle melted white chocolate for a decorative finish.

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Nutritional Information

Per Serving (1 square)	Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat
	170	2g	25g	8g

This fudge is indulgent but portion-controlled, making it easy to enjoy guilt-free. Plus, pecans provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which are great for overall wellness.

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Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking for lighter options, here are some swaps:

• Replace semisweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa) for less sugar and more antioxidants.
• Use low-fat evaporated milk instead of full-fat for a lower-calorie option.
• Omit the pecans or use toasted coconut flakes for a different texture.

I once tried substituting half the sugar in Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge with unsweetened applesauce—it resulted in a softer fudge with a slightly fruity undertone. Give it a shot if you’re feeling adventurous!

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Serving Suggestions

Presentation is key when it comes to holiday treats. Arrange the fudge squares on a tiered dessert stand alongside cookies and brownies for a stunning display. Pair with hot cocoa or spiced cider for a cozy beverage duo.

Creative Idea: Wrap individual pieces in wax paper and tie with ribbon for edible gifts. Your loved ones will adore the personal touch.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overheating the Mixture: Boiling too long can cause the sugar to crystallize, ruining the texture. Stick to the recommended cooking time.
2. Skipping the Stirring: Constant stirring ensures even heat distribution and prevents burning. Don’t walk away from the stove!
3. Rushing the Setting Process: Let the fudge cool completely before cutting; otherwise, it may crumble. Patience pays off here.

One year, I rushed the cooling process by popping Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge in the fridge. Big mistake—the cold temperatures caused condensation, leaving the fudge sticky and soft. Lesson learned: trust the process!

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Storing Tips for the Recipe

Store leftover Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, layer the pieces between sheets of wax paper and freeze for up to three months.

Pro Storage Tip: Label containers with dates to keep track of freshness.

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Pro Chef’s Tips

For ultra-smooth fudge, sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the mixture. Another trick: toast the pecans briefly in a dry skillet before folding them in—it enhances their nutty flavor.

Bonus Tool Recommendation

A silicone spatula is perfect for scraping every last bit of fudge out of the pan. No waste allowed!

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Conclusion

Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge is proof that sometimes the simplest recipes yield the most memorable results. Whether you’re gifting it, sharing it, or hoarding it all for yourself (no judgment here), this fudge is sure to impress.

Now it’s your turn! Share your experiences in the comments below or post photos on social media using #fudgebyerin. And don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes straight to your inbox. Happy baking—and happy holidays!

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FAQs

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely! Just use a larger pan, such as a 9×13-inch dish, and adjust cooking times accordingly.

Q: What can I substitute for pecans?
A: Try walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, or even dried cranberries for a chewy twist.

Q: How do I fix grainy fudge?
A: Graininess usually happens when the sugar isn’t fully dissolved. Stir constantly while heating and avoid rushing the process.

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