Paula Deen's 5 Minute Fudge

Paula Deen's 5 Minute Fudge is a quick and easy recipe that promises to deliver the rich, sweet, and creamy delight of traditional fudge without the usual fuss. This recipe is perfect for those sudden cravings or when you need a last-minute dessert for a gathering. The combination of milk chocolate chips, marshmallows, and nuts creates a wonderfully textured and flavorful treat that's sure to please any crowd. Let's dive into how you can whip up this delectable fudge in just minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 ⅔ cups white sugar
• ⅔ cup evaporated milk
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 (6 ounce) package milk chocolate chips
• 16 large marshmallows
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped nuts (any variety you prefer)

Directions

1. Prepare the Pan: Before you begin cooking, prepare an 8-inch square pan by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it. This will make it easier to remove the fudge once it's set.
2. Combine the Basics: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the white sugar, evaporated milk, unsalted butter, and salt. Place the saucepan over medium heat.
3. Bring to a Boil: Stirring constantly, bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, continue to cook and stir for 5 minutes. This process is crucial as it dissolves the sugar completely and prevents the fudge from being grainy.
4. Melt the Chocolate: After the 5 minutes have passed, add the milk chocolate chips to the saucepan. Continue cooking and stirring until the chocolate chips have completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
5. Add Marshmallows and Flavor: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Quickly stir in the marshmallows, pure vanilla extract, and chopped nuts. Continue stirring until the marshmallows have fully melted and the mixture is well combined.
6. Pour and Cool: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared 8-inch pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top and ensure the mixture is evenly distributed.
7. Set the Fudge: Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature. For quicker setting, you can place the pan in the refrigerator. Once the fudge is firm, cut it into squares.

Serving Suggestions

Paula Deen's 5 Minute Fudge is delicious on its own but can also be served as part of a dessert platter alongside cookies, brownies, and other small treats. For a festive touch, sprinkle the top of the fudge with crushed candy, sea salt, or more chopped nuts before it sets.

Tips

• For a smoother fudge, ensure that the sugar mixture doesn't boil too vigorously. A gentle yet constant boil is key.
• You can customize this fudge by using different types of nuts, such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds, depending on your preference.
• If you prefer a less sweet fudge, you can substitute semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for the milk chocolate chips.

Paula Deen's 5 Minute Fudge is a testament to the simplicity and joy of making homemade sweets. With its creamy texture, rich chocolate flavor, and the crunch of nuts, this fudge recipe is a quick and easy way to satisfy your sweet tooth or impress your guests. Whether you're a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a go-to for delicious, homemade fudge in no time.