Paula Deen, the queen of Southern comfort food, brings us a fudge recipe that’s as quick to make as it is delicious. Her 5-Minute Fudge is a delightful treat that combines simple ingredients to create a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth experience.

With a handful of pantry staples and a few minutes on the stove, you can whip up a batch of this irresistible fudge. In this article, we’ll explore the ingredients, the speedy preparation process, and why Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge is a go-to recipe for satisfying sweet cravings in no time.

Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge relies on a straightforward lineup of ingredients, each contributing to the fudge’s rich and indulgent flavor:

For the Fudge:

• White Sugar (1 and 1/2 cups): Sweetens the fudge and provides its signature texture.
• Evaporated Milk (2/3 cup): Adds creaminess and body to the mixture.
• Unsalted Butter (1 tablespoon): Enhances the fudge’s richness.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and highlights the chocolate flavor.
• Milk Chocolate Chips (1 package – 6 ounces): The star ingredient, contributing the luscious chocolatey goodness.
• Large Marshmallows (16): Bring a hint of marshmallow sweetness and contribute to the fudge’s silky texture.
• Pure Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses the fudge with aromatic warmth.
• Chopped Nuts (1 cup): Optional, but they add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge lives up to its name with its remarkably swift preparation process. Follow these steps to create this delectable treat:

Cooking the Fudge:

1. Gather and Combine: In a saucepan, combine the white sugar, evaporated milk, unsalted butter, and salt. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook for exactly 5 minutes, stirring continuously. This step ensures the sugar fully dissolves, and the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.
2. Add Chocolate Chips: After the 5 minutes, add the milk chocolate chips to the mixture. Stir continuously as the chocolate chips melt and combine with the other ingredients. The result is a luscious, chocolaty fudge base.
3. Marshmallows and More: Remove the saucepan from the heat and promptly stir in the large marshmallows, pure vanilla extract, and chopped nuts (if desired). The marshmallows become beautifully integrated into the fudge, contributing both flavor and texture.

Setting and Serving: 4. Pour and Cool: Transfer the fudge mixture into an 8-inch pan, spreading it evenly. Allow it to cool at room temperature, which usually takes about an hour. This step is crucial for the fudge to set and achieve the perfect consistency.

5. Cut and Enjoy: Once the fudge has cooled and solidified, cut it into squares or your preferred shape. Each square is a bite-sized piece of heavenly sweetness, ready to be savored.

Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients and efficient preparation. In just a matter of minutes, you can create a batch of rich, creamy fudge that captures the essence of indulgence. This recipe is perfect for last-minute dessert cravings, holiday gatherings, or thoughtful homemade gifts. The combination of sweet white sugar, luscious chocolate chips, and airy marshmallows creates a flavor and texture symphony that’s truly delightful. So, the next time you find yourself in need of a quick and satisfying treat, turn to Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge, and relish every bite of its sweet simplicity.