Every holiday table, potluck, and family gathering deserves a little piece of chocolate heaven. And when it comes to easy, fail-proof desserts, nothing beats 3 Minute Fudge. This recipe has been around for decades, passed down from grandmothers and shared among busy parents who wanted something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen. With just three ingredients and three minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a batch of smooth, creamy fudge ready to chill, slice, and serve.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. No candy thermometer. No complicated sugar stages. No special skills required. Just melt, stir, and set—it’s really that easy. Whether you’re making it for the holidays, a bake sale, or a last-minute dessert craving, this fudge is a lifesaver.
Why This Recipe Works
Sweetened Condensed Milk – Provides richness, sweetness, and the perfect creamy texture without needing added sugar.
Chocolate Chips – Semi-sweet chocolate is the base, melting into a velvety smooth mixture that firms up perfectly.
Vanilla Extract – Rounds out the flavor and enhances the chocolate.
Quick Prep Time – Just three minutes of cooking means anyone can make this dessert, even beginners.
No Fail – Unlike traditional fudge, there’s no worrying about sugar crystallizing or grainy textures.
Ingredients You’ll Need
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk – This is key. Don’t substitute evaporated milk; it won’t set correctly.
3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips – You can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate depending on preference.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For depth and balance.
Optional add-ins: Chopped nuts, crushed candy canes, marshmallows, or a swirl of peanut butter.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy lifting later. Lightly spray with cooking spray if desired.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Milk
In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and fully melted. This usually takes about 2–3 minutes total.
Step 3: Add Vanilla
Stir in the vanilla extract (and any mix-ins you’d like, such as nuts or candy). Mix until evenly combined.
