This Paula Deen 5-Minute Fudge Recipe is a quick and creamy recipe, which is made with mini marshmallows and semi-sweet chocolate chips. It’s a straightforward recipe, ready in about 15 minutes plus cooling time.
Paula Deen 5-Minute Fudge Recipe Ingredients
- 1 ⅔ cups sugar
- ⅔ cup evaporated milk
- 4 tablespoons Butter
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- 1 (6-oz) bag semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 cups Mini marshmallows
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- ½ cup chopped pecans
How To Make Paula Deen 5-Minute Fudge
- Prepare the pan: Lightly grease an 8-inch square pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides to easily lift the fudge out later.
- Boil the sugar mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and salt. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Time the boil: Once the mixture reaches a full boil, continue to boil it for exactly 5 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent it from scorching on the bottom.
- Melt the chocolate: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Immediately add the chocolate chips and stir until they are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add final ingredients: Quickly stir in the vanilla, chopped pecans, and mini marshmallows until the marshmallows are melted and everything is well combined.
- Cool the fudge: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan and spread it into an even layer. Let it cool completely at room temperature until firm, which can take a few hours. Once set, cut into small squares.

Recipe Tips
- How do I keep my fudge from being grainy? The key is to ensure the sugar is completely dissolved. Stirring constantly during the 5-minute boil helps prevent sugar crystals from forming, which is what causes a grainy texture.
- Why do I have to stir constantly? Stirring constantly during the boiling phase is crucial. It prevents the milk and sugar from scorching on the bottom of the pan and ensures the mixture heats evenly.
- Can I use a different kind of nut? Yes, walnuts are a great substitute for pecans. You can also omit the nuts entirely if you prefer a nut-free fudge.
- What if my fudge doesn’t set? This usually happens if the mixture wasn’t boiled for the full 5 minutes. The boiling time is critical for the sugar to reach the correct temperature to set properly. Use a timer for accuracy.
What To Serve With 5-Minute Fudge
Fudge is a rich treat that’s perfect on its own, but it’s also wonderful when:
- Included as part of a holiday dessert platter or cookie tray.
- Served with a cold glass of milk.
- Paired with a hot cup of black coffee to balance the sweetness.
How To Store 5-Minute Fudge
Room Temperature: Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature. Placing wax paper between the layers will prevent the squares from sticking together. It will keep for about 1 to 2 weeks. Refrigerate: You can also store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 weeks.
5-Minute Fudge Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Sugar: 25g
Nutrition information is estimated per square and may vary based on ingredients and final yield.
FAQs
Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate chips or peanut butter chips for the semi-sweet chocolate, but this will result in a sweeter fudge.
The “5-Minute” name refers to the specific boiling time required for the sugar mixture. The total time for the recipe is longer because it includes prep and cooling time.
Yes, you can substitute a 7-ounce jar of marshmallow creme (or fluff) for the mini marshmallows. Stir it in at the same step until it is fully incorporated.
Try More Recipes:
- Paula Deen Chocolate Pound Cake Recipe
- Paula Deen Lemon Pound Cake Recipe
- Paula Deen Carrot Cake Recipe

Paula Deen 5-Minute Fudge Recipe
Description
A quick, easy, and foolproof fudge that uses marshmallows for a creamy, no-fail texture every time.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper.
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and salt.
- Bring to a rolling boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Boil for exactly 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat. Stir in chocolate chips until melted.
- Quickly stir in vanilla, pecans, and marshmallows until the marshmallows are melted.
- Pour into the prepared pan and let cool completely until firm before cutting into squares.
Notes
- The 5-minute boiling time is critical for the fudge to set properly; use a timer.
- Stir the mixture constantly while it boils to prevent scorching and ensure a smooth texture.
- The fudge needs to cool for several hours at room temperature to set fully.
- Walnuts can be used as a substitute for pecans, or they can be omitted entirely.