If you’ve ever wanted to wow your friends and family with a sweet treat that’s equal parts nostalgic, impressive, and downright decadent, this Million Dollar Fudge Recipe is about to become your new go-to. With layers of rich chocolate, creamy texture, and a melt-in-your-mouth finish, it’s no wonder this classic American fudge has converted so many chocolate lovers. Every bite tastes like celebration, and while it may taste like a million bucks, the secret is how simple it is to whip together. Whether you’re a fudge rookie or a seasoned holiday candy maker, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of sweetness, smoothness, and a touch of crunchy walnut magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s nothing overly fancy here: just time-tested staples that come together in fudge perfection. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in making the Million Dollar Fudge Recipe famous for its silky-smooth texture, glossy finish, and irresistible flavor.
- Granulated Sugar (4 1/2 cups): The backbone of the fudge, it sweetens and helps achieve that signature creamy crumb.
- Evaporated Milk (1 12-oz can): Adds a subtle richness without making the fudge overly heavy—helps produce that classic fudge consistency.
- Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup): Brings luscious flavor and contributes to the fudge’s smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Just a touch brightens and balances all the chocolatey sweetness.
- Semisweet Chocolate Chips (12 oz): These lend deep cocoa flavor and help keep the fudge sliceable after chilling.
- German Sweet Chocolate (12 oz, broken into pieces): Adds a mellow, creamy chocolate layer and gorgeous color—don’t skip if you want that authentic taste.
- Marshmallow Creme (1 7-oz jar): The not-so-secret ingredient that makes Million Dollar Fudge Recipe uniquely soft, fluffy, and easy to cut.
- Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances all the other flavors and gives the fudge its bakery-fresh aroma.
- Chopped Walnuts (1 cup, optional): For fans of crunch and nutty depth—pecans work great, or simply skip for nut-free bliss.
How to Make Million Dollar Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish or, for the easiest cleanup ever, lining it with parchment paper. This simple move means your fudge will pop out in one perfect piece, making cutting neat squares a total breeze.
Step 2: Cook the Sugar Mixture
In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and salt. This quartet will form the sweet foundation of your Million Dollar Fudge Recipe. Stir constantly as it warms—think of it as stirring love into every bite. Once it comes to a bubbling boil, keep it rolling and stir without stopping for 6 minutes. You want the sweetness to cook through fully without any scorching.
Step 3: Add Chocolate and Marshmallow Creme
Take the saucepan off the heat and immediately add the chocolate chips, broken pieces of German sweet chocolate, and the marshmallow creme. The residual heat is all you need to melt everything together into a velvety, cohesive river of chocolate. Stir until smooth and glossy—if you’re tempted to sneak a taste, no judgment here!
Step 4: Flavor and Finish
Stir in the vanilla extract for that signature, bakery-quality aroma. If you’re using chopped walnuts (or pecans), fold them in gently for a little extra character, color, and crunch. At this point, the fudge mixture should be beautifully thick and shiny.
Step 5: Pour and Chill
Quickly pour the fudge into your prepped pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. It starts setting fast! Let it cool completely at room temperature before moving it to the fridge to chill for at least 2 hours. This patience pays off: you’ll get those perfectly clean, fudgy squares when you cut in.
How to Serve Million Dollar Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of flaky sea salt, extra chopped walnuts, or even a light dusting of cocoa powder can turn each square of this Million Dollar Fudge Recipe into a bakery-worthy delight. They add a pop of color and enhance the flavor with every little bite.
Side Dishes
The best part about this fudge is that it pairs wonderfully with so many desserts and drinks. Serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a cup of strong coffee, or fresh berries for a pleasant contrast. On holiday platters, it fits right in with cookies and caramel popcorn.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the fudge into fun shapes using cookie cutters, or wrap individual squares in decorative wax paper to give as thoughtful gifts. Stack them high on a pretty cake stand at your next party, and watch them disappear before your eyes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Million Dollar Fudge Recipe at its freshest by storing leftovers in an airtight container. Separate layers with parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking, and keep it in the refrigerator. It’ll stay delicious for up to two weeks—if it lasts that long!
Freezing
Fudge freezes beautifully. Wrap squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Stored this way, the fudge will keep its signature texture and taste for up to three months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
If you like your fudge just a touch softer, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can turn the texture grainy and melt away all the million-dollar magic.
FAQs
Why is my fudge grainy instead of creamy?
Graininess usually comes from sugar crystals forming during cooking. Be sure to stir constantly during the boiling stage and don’t overcook—this helps ensure the Million Dollar Fudge Recipe stays silky smooth every time.
Can I make this fudge nut-free?
Absolutely! Simply leave out the nuts, or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower if you still want a bit of crunch. The fudge will set up beautifully nut-free.
How can I get perfectly neat squares when cutting?
Chill your fudge thoroughly, then use a sharp knife wiped clean between each cut. Lining the pan with parchment makes lifting the fudge out for cutting even easier.
Can I use dark chocolate instead of German sweet chocolate?
Yes! Dark chocolate gives the fudge a deeper, more intense flavor and slightly less sweetness. Swap in equal amounts and adjust your marshmallow creme or sugar slightly if you want to balance the bitterness.
Is this fudge gluten-free?
Most versions of the Million Dollar Fudge Recipe are naturally gluten-free, but check your chocolate and marshmallow creme labels to be certain. As always, when serving to someone with celiac or gluten sensitivity, verify all labels for safety.
Final Thoughts
There’s something gloriously nostalgic and satisfying about sharing a plate of Million Dollar Fudge Recipe with the people you love. Give it a try, and you’ll quickly see why it’s been a treasured favorite for generations—one batch might just become a new tradition in your kitchen, too!
Print
Million Dollar Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 36 pieces 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the decadence of this Million Dollar Fudge recipe, a classic treat that’s rich, creamy, and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth cravings.
Ingredients
For the Fudge:
- 4 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 (12 oz) package semisweet chocolate chips
- 12 oz German sweet chocolate (broken into pieces)
- 1 (7 oz) jar marshmallow creme
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Fudge Mixture: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper. Combine sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat. Boil for 6 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Add Chocolate and Flavors: Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips, German chocolate, and marshmallow creme until melted. Mix in vanilla extract and walnuts.
- Set and Chill: Pour the mixture into the dish, cool to set at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.
Notes
- You can substitute pecans for walnuts or omit nuts for a nut-free version.
- For richer fudge, use high-quality chocolate.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
