1. Melt the Base
Combine chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter in a heavy saucepan.
Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns silky and smooth (8–12 minutes).
🌟 Slow and steady keeps it from burning and makes the fudge extra creamy.
2. Add the Flavor
Remove from heat. Stir in the vanilla, salt, and optional nuts.
3. Pour and Set
Spread the fudge into a parchment-lined 8×8-inch pan. Smooth the top.
Let cool for 2–3 hours at room temperature, or refrigerate for 1 hour.
4. Slice Into Squares
Use the parchment to lift it out, then cut into 1-inch squares.
Wipe the knife between cuts for clean edges.
💡 For gifts: Wrap each square in wax paper or cellophane.
Tips for Mom-Level Fudge
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Use full-fat condensed milk—low-fat won’t firm up.
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Stir the whole time; chocolate scorches fast.
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Remove from heat as soon as it melts.
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Stores 2–3 weeks in an airtight container at cool room temp.
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Freezes beautifully for up to 2 months.
Fun Variations
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Peanut Butter Swirl: Marble spoonfuls of PB into the fudge.
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Peppermint: Add ½ tsp peppermint extract + crushed candy canes.
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Mocha: Stir in 1 tsp instant espresso.
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Cherry: Add ½ cup chopped dried cherries.
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Salted Caramel: Swirl in ¼ cup caramel sauce.
Why This Fudge Feels Like Love
This recipe isn’t just chocolate—it’s comfort.
It’s what my mom made when:
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My heart was broken
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I aced a test
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Grandma needed cheering up
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Or we just wanted something warm and sweet to share
Simple gestures often carry the deepest care.
Passing It On
My mom never wrote this recipe down—she showed me. Standing beside me at the stove, her hand guiding mine, stirring slow.
Now I’m passing it on to you.
Make a batch, share it with someone who needs a little kindness, and let the tradition keep going. Because the best recipes aren’t just made… they’re shared. 💛🍫✨