Rich, creamy, and melt-in-your-mouth smooth, Mom’s Fudge Recipe is a timeless treat that brings warmth and nostalgia in every bite. Whether it’s the holidays, a family gathering, or just a weekday pick-me-up, this fudge delivers a sweet dose of comfort. Made from simple ingredients and perfected with love, it’s the kind of recipe that gets passed down through generations.
This fudge is the one that disappeared first at bake sales and made appearances on every Christmas platter. Each square is silky, chocolatey perfection, balancing sweetness and richness just right. With its no-fail method and pantry staples, you’ll want to make it part of your own family’s tradition.
Why You’ll Love This Mom’s Fudge Recipe
- Ultra Creamy Texture: No graininess here—this fudge is smooth as silk.
- Time-Tested Perfection: A classic recipe that never goes out of style.
- Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of them already.
- Foolproof Method: Ideal for beginners and experienced cooks alike.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for gifting or storing.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into fudge-making, it’s essential to have your tools ready. Fudge comes together quickly, so preparation is key.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan: Prevents burning and ensures even heat distribution.
- Candy Thermometer: Critical for hitting the right temperature and achieving the perfect texture.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For smooth stirring without scratching your pan.
- 8×8 or 9×9 Baking Pan: Creates those thick, satisfying squares.
- Parchment Paper: Makes it easy to lift the fudge out for clean cutting.
Take a few minutes to line your pan and prep all your ingredients in advance. Once the fudge is on the heat, things move fast—you’ll thank yourself later.

Ingredients for the Mom’s Fudge Recipe
Each ingredient in Mom’s Fudge Recipe serves a specific role in creating that unforgettable texture and taste.
- Granulated Sugar: Provides the base sweetness and contributes to the creamy structure.
- Evaporated Milk: Adds richness and helps create the smooth, dense texture.
- Unsalted Butter: Brings flavor and aids in softening the fudge.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Offer a deep chocolate taste with just the right amount of sweetness.
- Marshmallow Creme: Key to the signature smoothness, it melts into the mixture to bind everything perfectly.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and enhances the chocolate flavor.
- Salt: A pinch of salt sharpens all the flavors and keeps the fudge from being overly sweet.
How To Make the Mom’s Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhangs on the sides for easy removal later.
Step 2: Combine the Base
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and butter. Stir continuously until the mixture begins to boil.
Step 3: Bring to the Right Temperature
Once boiling, attach your candy thermometer and let the mixture reach 234°F (soft-ball stage), stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Step 4: Add the Good Stuff
Remove from heat and quickly stir in chocolate chips, marshmallow creme, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until fully melted and smooth.
Step 5: Pour and Set
Immediately pour the fudge into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Let it cool at room temperature for several hours or until set.
Step 6: Slice and Enjoy
Once set, lift the fudge using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
How to Serve and Store Mom’s Fudge Recipe
Mom’s Fudge is a crowd-pleaser, and how you serve it can make all the difference. Cut into clean squares for gifting, plating, or setting out at gatherings. For a more rustic charm, break it into uneven chunks for a cozy dessert tray.
Serve it chilled or at room temperature—either way, the texture remains decadently smooth. Pair it with coffee for a comforting afternoon treat, or add it to a holiday dessert board alongside cookies and nuts.
Storing Tips:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Refrigeration: Keeps for 2 to 3 weeks in the fridge.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Keeps up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when the fudge is ready to pour?
The fudge is ready to pour when it reaches exactly 234°F (soft-ball stage). Use a candy thermometer for accuracy.
Can I use sweetened condensed milk instead of evaporated milk?
No, sweetened condensed milk will make the fudge overly sweet and change the texture. Stick with evaporated milk.
Why is my fudge grainy?
Grainy fudge usually means the sugar wasn’t fully dissolved or the mixture was overcooked. Stir consistently and avoid scraping the pan.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans make a delicious addition. Fold them in when adding the chocolate chips and marshmallow creme.
How long does it take for fudge to set?
At room temperature, it takes about 3 to 4 hours. You can speed it up by refrigerating it for 1 to 2 hours.
Is this fudge good for gifting?
Yes! Mom’s Fudge holds its shape well and packs beautifully into tins or treat bags, making it perfect for holidays and celebrations.
Want More Dessert Ideas with a Twist?
If you loved Mom’s Fudge Recipe, here are more crowd-favorite desserts to explore:
- Try the creamy, nostalgic flavor of the Old-Fashioned Egg Custard Pie.
- Add a fruity zing with the Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake.
- For a decadent experience, make Bonnie’s Blue Ribbon Chocolate Dream Cake.
- Craving crunch? Whip up Winter Brittle.
- Enjoy layers of indulgence with the Pecan Pie Lasagna.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time:
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Let me know how your batch turned out! Did you stick to the classic or add a twist like nuts or a drizzle of caramel on top?
I’d love to hear your variations or any tips you discovered while making it. Sharing ideas helps everyone sweeten their skills!

Mom’s Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 36 squares
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Mom’s Fudge Recipe is the ultimate classic fudge made with chocolate chips, marshmallow creme, and evaporated milk for a creamy, rich, and smooth texture. This easy homemade fudge is perfect for holiday trays, gifting, or whenever you crave a nostalgic chocolate treat. With pantry staples and foolproof steps, it’s a dessert recipe every home cook needs.
Ingredients
2 ½ cups granulated sugar
⅔ cup evaporated milk
½ cup unsalted butter
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 jar (7 oz) marshmallow creme
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhangs on the sides.
2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, evaporated milk, and butter over medium heat.
3. Stir constantly until mixture comes to a boil.
4. Attach a candy thermometer and continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the temperature reaches 234°F (soft-ball stage).
5. Remove from heat. Stir in chocolate chips, marshmallow creme, vanilla extract, and salt until fully melted and smooth.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
7. Allow fudge to cool at room temperature for several hours or until set.
8. Lift using parchment, slice into squares, and serve.
Notes
Make sure to stir constantly while boiling to avoid burning the sugar.
Do not scrape the bottom of the pan when pouring to keep texture smooth.
Use high-quality chocolate chips for the best flavor and consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 4.5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
