If you’re searching for a dessert that melts hearts and disappears from plates in record time, Easy Chocolate Walnut Fudge is your new go-to! This rich, creamy, nut-studded delight hits the perfect balance of chocolatey decadence and crunchy goodness. It’s incredibly simple to make, requires no fancy equipment, and is a showstopper whether you’re baking for the holidays, a potluck, or simply to treat yourself. Nothing beats the magic of homemade fudge, especially when it comes together with so little fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in Easy Chocolate Walnut Fudge serves a special purpose, creating the irresistible taste and melt-in-your-mouth texture folks rave about. With just six straightforward ingredients, your kitchen is about to smell like a chocolate lover’s dream come true!
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (3 cups): These provide a balanced chocolate flavor—not too bitter, not too sweet, just absolutely luscious when melted.
- Sweetened condensed milk (1 can, 14 oz): The secret to super smooth, creamy fudge; it also adds just the right amount of sweetness.
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup): Adds richness and brings that silky mouthfeel that sets great fudge apart.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavor and gives the fudge a deeper, bakery-style warmth.
- Chopped walnuts (1 1/2 cups): For crunch, flavor, and a classic nutty twist; you can chop them large or small depending on your texture preference.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances the chocolate flavor and keeps the fudge from tasting flat or overly sweet.
How to Make Easy Chocolate Walnut Fudge
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, making sure to leave an overhang on two sides. This gives you convenient “handles” for lifting the finished fudge out neatly and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate, Butter, and Milk
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter. Stir constantly—gently but consistently—until everything has melted into a silky, unified mixture. Low heat is your friend here; it prevents burning and delivers the smoothest fudge base.
Step 3: Stir in Vanilla, Salt, and Walnuts
Take the pan off the heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and those crunchy chopped walnuts. Mix just until everything looks even—overmixing can make your fudge grainy, so stop as soon as it’s combined.
Step 4: Spread and Chill
Pour the warm fudge mixture into your parchment-lined baking dish. Use a spatula to nudge it into the corners and flatten out the top. For extra flair (and texture), sprinkle a few reserved walnuts on top. Pop the dish in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours: the hardest part is waiting for it to set!
Step 5: Slice and Serve
When the fudge is firm, use the parchment overhang to lift it onto a cutting board. Cut into small squares—this batch yields about 36 bite-sized pieces. Each square is a perfect balance of creamy chocolate and crunchy nutty goodness, ready to delight whoever’s lucky enough to grab a piece.
How to Serve Easy Chocolate Walnut Fudge
Garnishes
For an extra pop of elegance, sprinkle the finished fudge with flaky sea salt or a dusting of cocoa powder right before serving. A handful of finely chopped walnuts on top not only looks beautiful but adds an inviting texture.
Side Dishes
Pair your Easy Chocolate Walnut Fudge with fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert platter. These additions provide freshness and lightness, complementing the richness of the fudge beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Easy Chocolate Walnut Fudge shines at bake sales, family gatherings, and holiday parties. You can wrap individual squares in wax paper for sweet homemade gifts, stack pieces in a decorative tin as a host present, or build an eye-catching tiered dessert tray for special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Fudge is wonderfully forgiving! Store leftover squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Layer parchment or wax paper between layers to keep the pieces from sticking together and to maintain their lovely texture.
Freezing
Want to savor Easy Chocolate Walnut Fudge even longer? Freeze it! Place cut squares in a single layer on a lined baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. The fudge will keep for up to 3 months—just bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Reheating
Fudge is meant to be enjoyed cool or at room temperature, so reheating is rarely needed. If you prefer a slightly softer bite, let refrigerated fudge sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving. Don’t microwave the fudge, as it can melt and lose its classic, firm-but-creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use different nuts in this Easy Chocolate Walnut Fudge?
Absolutely! Pecans, almonds, pistachios, or even a nut-free mix-in like dried cherries or mini marshmallows can be delicious. Just keep the total quantity close to 1 1/2 cups for the right ratio of mix-ins to chocolate.
Do I need a candy thermometer for this recipe?
No thermometer required! That’s part of the beauty of Easy Chocolate Walnut Fudge; the recipe is almost foolproof and doesn’t demand precision equipment—the stovetop and a good spatula are all you need.
How do I get super clean, even slices?
For perfect squares, use a sharp knife warmed under hot water (then dried), and clean the blade between cuts. Chilling the fudge thoroughly also makes slicing a snap, so don’t rush the cooldown step.
Can I make this fudge dairy-free?
Yes—you can find dairy-free chocolate chips and sweetened condensed coconut milk at many grocery stores. Substitute vegan butter for the unsalted butter and follow the same steps. The results are decadent and completely plant-based!
What’s the best way to gift Easy Chocolate Walnut Fudge?
Wrap individual squares in parchment or wax paper for charming party favors, or layer them in a lined gift box or decorative tin with ribbon for a heartfelt homemade present. Add a handwritten note with storage tips for a thoughtful touch.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried your hand at homemade fudge, Easy Chocolate Walnut Fudge is the recipe to start with—simple, rewarding, and always a crowd-pleaser. Every rich, chocolatey square is pure joy, so share a batch with loved ones (or keep a secret stash for yourself). Happy fudge making!
Print
Easy Chocolate Walnut Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 36 small squares 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of this Easy Chocolate Walnut Fudge that requires no baking and just a few simple ingredients. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or as a delightful homemade gift!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups chopped walnuts
- pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish: Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang.
- Melt Ingredients: In a saucepan over low heat, melt chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter, stirring until smooth.
- Combine and Chill: Stir in vanilla, salt, and walnuts. Pour into dish, spread evenly, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Serve: Lift fudge out using parchment, cut into squares, and enjoy!
Notes
- For added crunch, top with reserved walnuts before chilling.
- Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Candy
- Method: No-Bake, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 30 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 17 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
