Name: Fantasy Fudge Recipe: Creamy and Chocolatey
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 140 min
Ingredients: 3 cups granulated sugar; 3/4 cup unsalted butter; 2/3 cup evaporated milk; 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 jar (7 oz Kraft Marshmallow Creme); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp kosher salt; 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional); Optional: Powdered sugar (extra nuts); Suggested Pairings: Coffee (hot cocoa)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Fantasy Fudge is a classic dessert, perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or indulgent snacks. This creamy, chocolatey fudge, featuring a smooth, velvety texture and rich flavor, delivers a sweet, satisfying treat that melts in your mouth. Presented on a white ceramic platter, optionally dusted with powdered sugar or topped with chopped nuts, this original Fantasy Fudge recipe offers a rich, appetizing aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides the classic version using Kraft Marshmallow Creme, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing treat that brings decadent warmth to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Fantasy Fudge:

3 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup unsalted butter
2/3 cup evaporated milk (5 oz can)
12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 jar (7 oz) Kraft Marshmallow Creme
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp kosher salt
1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For Serving:

Optional: Powdered sugar, extra chopped nuts
Suggested Accompaniments: Fresh berries, whipped cream
Suggested Pairings: Coffee, hot cocoa
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve on a white ceramic platter
Suggested Equipment: 9×9-inch baking pan, heavy-bottomed saucepan, candy thermometer, wooden spoon, parchment paper or foil, measuring cups/spoons

Step-by-Step Process

Prepare Pan: Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease.
Cook Base: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, butter, and evaporated milk. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil. Continue boiling for 5 minutes, stirring, until it reaches 234°F (soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
Add Chocolate and Creme: Remove from heat. Stir in chocolate chips until melted and smooth. Add Marshmallow Creme, vanilla extract, and salt; stir until fully combined. Fold in nuts (if using).
Taste and Adjust: Taste a small amount of the mixture (carefully, as it’s hot) and adjust with a pinch of salt or a drop of vanilla for balanced flavor.
Pour and Set: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Let cool at room temperature for 2–3 hours until set, or refrigerate for 1 hour to speed up the process.
Serve: Lift fudge from the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into 1-inch squares. Arrange on a white ceramic platter, optionally dusted with powdered sugar or topped with extra nuts. Serve with fresh berries, whipped cream, coffee, or hot cocoa.

Tips for Better Fantasy Fudge

Use a candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches 234°F for the perfect fudge texture.
Taste the mixture cautiously before pouring to balance sweet and rich flavors; adjust sparingly.
Stir constantly while boiling to prevent scorching and ensure a smooth consistency.
Line the pan with parchment for easy removal and clean cuts.
Present on a white ceramic platter to highlight the glossy fudge and vibrant garnishes.
Make ahead: Prepare fudge up to 1 week in advance; store in an airtight container.
Cut with a sharp knife for neat, uniform squares.
Enhance aesthetic: Dust with powdered sugar for a snowy effect or add nuts for texture.

Variations and Customization

Nut-Free Fantasy Fudge: Omit walnuts or pecans for a smooth, nut-free version.
Gluten-Free Fantasy Fudge: Naturally gluten-free; ensure all ingredients (e.g., chocolate chips) are gluten-free certified.
Vegan Fantasy Fudge: Replace butter with vegan margarine, evaporated milk with coconut milk, and use vegan chocolate chips and marshmallow creme (or make a vegan marshmallow substitute).
Dark Chocolate Fantasy Fudge: Use 12 oz dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer flavor.
Peppermint Fantasy Fudge: Add 1/2 tsp peppermint extract and top with crushed candy canes.
Peanut Butter Fantasy Fudge: Swirl in 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter before pouring into the pan.
Salted Caramel Fantasy Fudge: Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with flaky sea salt after setting.
White Chocolate Fantasy Fudge: Replace semi-sweet chips with white chocolate chips and reduce sugar to 2 3/4 cups.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or in the fridge for up to 1 month; layer with parchment to prevent sticking.
Freeze fudge in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
Serve at room temperature for the best creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Use as a dessert or giftable treat for holidays or special occasions.
Pair with coffee or hot cocoa to complement the rich, chocolatey flavors.
Present on a white ceramic platter with garnishes for an appetizing, indulgent charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 32 servings (1-inch square each, with nuts):

Calories: 150 kcal
Total Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 30mg
Total Carbohydrates: 22g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 20g
Protein: 2g
Vitamin A: 2% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 0% Daily Value
Calcium: 2% Daily Value
Iron: 4% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (vegan options reduce cholesterol to 0mg). High in sugar; enjoy as an occasional treat.

Conclusion

This original Fantasy Fudge recipe delivers a creamy, chocolatey treat perfect for any occasion, transforming simple ingredients into a classic indulgence. Its straightforward preparation and rich presentation make it a favorite. The velvety texture and sweet flavor delight every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its crowd-pleasing decadence.