5-Ingredient Fudge

What are the basic ingredients for fudge?

The basic ingredients required for old-fashioned fudge are sugar, butter and milk, which is then heated to the soft-ball stage. Quick fudge, like this recipe, typically includes marshmallow fluff or condensed milk. Other ingredients—chocolate, caramel, fruits, nuts and more—are commonly added, too, like in these irresistible fudge recipes.

Why is my fudge not hardening?

Quick fudge typically sets well, as long as you follow the simple steps on how to make fudge. But if you're struggling with old-fashioned fudge not setting up, it might be because it wasn't heated to a high enough temperature during cooking. This is likely a result of either user error or an inaccurate candy thermometer. Be sure to heat your fudge to the right temperature, usually between 237°F and 240°, and double-check your candy thermometer.

Why is my fudge crumbly?

If you're having issues with your fudge coming out crumbly, it's likely that you're overcooking the sugar. Doing so will make the mixture unable to retain enough water, resulting in fudge that has a dry, crumbly texture. Here are more common fudge mistakes and how to fix them.

How do you make fudge more quickly?

The speediest way to whip up fudge is opting for a shortcut method, like the microwave, with shortcut ingredients, like condensed milk or marshmallow fluff, rather than the slow, traditional stovetop technique.

How long will fudge last?

When layered in between pieces of waxed paper and stored in an airtight container, fudge will last for 1 to 2 weeks at room temperature and 2 to 3 weeks in the refrigerator. If you want to freeze fudge, wrap it up in waxed paper and aluminum foil, and then keep in an airtight container, where it will last for up to a year. Here's more about how to store fudge properly.

—Annamarie Higley, Taste of Home Associate Print Editor and Sammi DiVito, Taste of Home Assistant Editor