If you’ve ever dreamed of creating a truly indulgent treat that dazzles both your taste buds and your guests, the Million Dollar Fudge Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This rich, velvety fudge blends the perfect harmony of smooth semi-sweet chocolate, lush marshmallow fluff, tender nuts, and a unique caramel-like depth from evaporated milk and butter. Every bite melts heavenly, balancing sweetness with a luxurious texture that simply screams celebration. Whether you’re gifting it or enjoying it yourself, this Million Dollar Fudge Recipe is undeniably a showstopper that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients for this fudge is both straightforward and rewarding because each one plays a crucial role in building the complexity and classic texture that make this recipe unforgettable. From the rich chocolates to the creamy marshmallow fluff and crunchy nuts, every component adds layers of flavor and personality.
- 4 ½ cups granulated sugar: The essential sweet base that creates the fudge’s structure and sugary crunch.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and a silky smooth mouthfeel.
- 1 pinch salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors.
- 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk: Gives that classic caramel undertone and creamy consistency.
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips: Provides a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate foundation.
- 12 ounces German baking chocolate, chopped: Adds a bold, deep chocolate intensity that sets this fudge apart.
- 7 ounces marshmallow fluff: Keeps the fudge light, airy, and luscious, with a subtle marshmallow sweetness.
- 2 cups chopped pecans or walnuts: Brings crunch and a pleasant nutty contrast to the silky fudge.
How to Make Million Dollar Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining a 9 x 13 x 2-inch pan with parchment paper, allowing for a generous one-inch overhang on each side to make lifting the fudge out a breeze later. Give the pan a light butter or non-stick spray coating to prevent any sticking. This prep work ensures your beautiful fudge keeps its shape and looks as perfect as it tastes.
Step 2: Combine Sugar Mixture
In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, combine 4 ½ cups granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, a pinch of salt, and the entire 12-ounce can of evaporated milk. Stir gently as the sugar dissolves completely into this creamy blend—this step is vital to achieve that smooth, melt-in-your-mouth fudge texture.
Step 3: Boil the Sugar Mixture
Crank the heat up to medium and bring the sugary mixture to a steady, rolling boil. Keep stirring occasionally, paying close attention that it does not boil over—this usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. This boiling step caramelizes the mixture and sets the foundation for a luscious fudge base that will thicken beautifully.
Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Mixture
While your sugar mixture heats up, grab a large bowl and add 12 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate chips, 12 ounces of chopped German baking chocolate, 7 ounces of marshmallow fluff, and 2 cups of your choice of chopped pecans or walnuts. Set this aside—it’s ready to welcome that hot sugar mixture in the next step.
Step 5: Combine and Melt
Once your sugar mixture finishes boiling, carefully pour it over the chocolate and marshmallow mixture. Stir consistently and patiently until the chocolate melts completely and the fluff losing all its white streaks, blending into a glossy, rich fudge. This step requires a little muscle but trust me, the smoothness that results is well worth it.
Step 6: Pour and Set
Immediately pour your luscious fudge into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Time is of the essence here, as the fudge starts to set up quickly once combined. Let it rest at room temperature for at least two hours, allowing it to firm up to the perfect sliceable consistency.
Step 7: Slice and Enjoy
After it’s fully set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the fudge from the pan and place it on a cutting board. Slice into about 48 bite-sized pieces, though feel free to go bigger if you prefer a chunkier treat. Your homemade Million Dollar Fudge is now ready to swoon over or share with lucky friends!
How to Serve Million Dollar Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
While this fudge stands tall on its own, adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can awaken the deep chocolate notes and add an irresistible contrast. For special occasions, a few whole pecans or a drizzle of melted white chocolate on top can make it sparkle visually and elevate the flavor profile even further.
Side Dishes
Serve your Million Dollar Fudge Recipe alongside rich coffee or creamy hot chocolate to create the ultimate cozy indulgence. It pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, balancing the fudge’s richness with bright and refreshing accents.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, cut the fudge into small squares and stack them in a decorative glass jar layered with parchment paper for a wonderful edible gift. You can also arrange bite-sized pieces on a decorative platter garnished with mint leaves or edible gold leaf for an elegant dessert centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cut, store your leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps it perfectly soft and chewy for up to one week, letting all those decadent flavors meld beautifully over time.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy your Million Dollar Fudge Recipe later, it freezes wonderfully. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen fudge lasts up to three months and thaws quickly at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge again.
Reheating
Fudge is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if you crave a slightly softer bite, let it sit out for 15 to 20 minutes before eating. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture and cause the fudge to weep or become greasy.
FAQs
Can I use different nuts in this fudge recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans and walnuts are traditional and delicious, feel free to swap in almonds, hazelnuts, or even toasted macadamia nuts to customize the crunch to your liking.
Is it possible to make this fudge without marshmallow fluff?
The marshmallow fluff is key to achieving that classic fudge texture and light sweetness, but if you’re in a pinch, you could experiment with melted marshmallows. Just keep an eye on consistency as it might turn out a bit different.
How do I know when the sugar mixture is at the right temperature or boil?
The sugar mixture needs to reach a full rolling boil without stirring, lasting for 6 to 8 minutes. This means it will bubble vigorously and won’t stop bubbling if you swirl the pan, ensuring the right thickness and texture in your fudge.
Can I make this fudge gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free if you check that all your chocolate and marshmallow fluff brands do not contain gluten or cross-contamination risks. Always double-check ingredient labels to be safe.
How long does it take for the fudge to set properly?
Give your fudge at least two hours at room temperature to set well and become firm enough for slicing. For best results, avoid refrigerating immediately to prevent a hard, chalky texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about homemade fudge, and the Million Dollar Fudge Recipe is one of those timeless classics worth every minute spent making it. Whether you’re gifting it, serving it at a party, or simply treating yourself, this recipe promises smiles, compliments, and a little piece of chocolate heaven in every bite. So grab your ingredients and get ready to whip up a batch of sweet success—you won’t regret embracing the rich tradition of Million Dollar Fudge!
Print
Million Dollar Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 23 minutes
- Yield: 48 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Million Dollar Fudge recipe is a rich and creamy dessert featuring a combination of semi-sweet chocolate chips, German baking chocolate, and marshmallow fluff, all combined with a sweet sugar and evaporated milk mixture. Loaded with chopped pecans or walnuts, this decadent fudge sets quickly and yields about 48 bite-sized pieces, perfect for sharing or special occasions.
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 4 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
Chocolate Mixture
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 12 ounces German baking chocolate, chopped
- 7 ounces marshmallow fluff (about 2 cups)
- 2 cups chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions
- Prepare Pan: Line a 9 x 13 x 2-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving a 1-inch overhang on either side, and lightly butter or spray with pan spray. This makes lifting the fudge easier once it has set, although it can be skipped if necessary.
- Combine Sugar Mixture: In a large saucepan, add granulated sugar, unsalted butter, salt, and evaporated milk. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until the sugar fully dissolves.
- Boil Sugar Mixture: Increase heat to medium and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Stir occasionally to prevent boiling over and let it boil for 6 to 8 minutes to reach the proper consistency.
- Prepare Chocolate Mixture: While the sugar mixture is boiling, place the semi-sweet chocolate chips, German baking chocolate, marshmallow fluff, and chopped nuts into a large mixing bowl and set aside.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the hot sugar mixture over the chocolate mixture in the bowl.
- Melt and Combine: Stir the combined mixtures vigorously until all chocolate is melted and the marshmallow fluff is fully incorporated without white streaks, forming a smooth fudge batter.
- Pour into Pan: Immediately pour the fudge into the prepared pan and smooth the top evenly with a spatula, as the fudge begins to set very quickly.
- Set and Slice: Let the fudge sit at room temperature until fully set for at least 2 hours. Once firm, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan and slice into approximately 48 small pieces.
Notes
- Using parchment paper helps in easy removal of fudge from the pan.
- Stir continuously during boiling to prevent burning and overflowing.
- Mixing immediately after boiling ensures a smooth, creamy texture before fudge sets.
- Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated for longer freshness.
- For a nut-free version, omit the chopped pecans or walnuts.
