Fudge is one of those sweet treats that instantly brings joy to any occasion. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday party, looking for a last-minute dessert, or simply craving something rich and chocolatey, Paula Deen’s 5-minute fudge recipe is here to save the day. This no-fuss recipe combines simplicity with decadence, resulting in a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth confection that tastes like it took hours to make.
The most surprising twist? This fudge uses cream cheese as a key ingredient, adding a subtle tanginess that balances the sweetness perfectly. Let’s explore how to whip up this chocolate delight in just a few minutes!
The Charm of a 5-Minute Fudge
Fudge has a long-standing reputation as a classic homemade candy, but traditional recipes often involve candy thermometers and precise timing. Enter Paula Deen’s version, which ditches the hassle without sacrificing flavor. Using only a handful of ingredients, this recipe allows even novice bakers to create a crowd-pleasing dessert that tastes like it came straight from a professional candy shop.
Whether you’re gifting a batch to friends or indulging in a square (or two) at home, this fudge is a surefire hit.
Ingredients
This recipe keeps it simple with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen:
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (16-ounce) box powdered sugar (about 3¾ cups)
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional, such as pecans or walnuts)
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Prepare Your Pan
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving a slight overhang for easy lifting later. Lightly grease the lining with butter or cooking spray.
2. Cream the Cheese
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using a hand mixer or stand mixer until it’s smooth and creamy. This step is essential for achieving a silky texture in your fudge.
3. Add the Sweetness and Cocoa
- Gradually sift in the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, beating continuously to combine. Sifting prevents lumps and ensures the mixture is smooth.
4. Flavor with Vanilla
- Stir in the vanilla extract for an added layer of flavor. At this point, your fudge base will have a rich, chocolatey aroma that’s hard to resist.
5. Incorporate the Nuts (Optional)
- If you’re a fan of crunchy textures, gently fold in your chopped nuts. Pecans and walnuts work particularly well, adding a nutty depth to the fudge.
6. Transfer and Smooth
- Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Press it down gently to create a flat, uniform surface.
7. Chill to Set
- Refrigerate the fudge for at least 1–2 hours, or until it’s firm enough to cut into squares.
8. Cut and Serve
- Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the overhanging parchment or foil. Slice into bite-sized squares and enjoy!
Why Cream Cheese Fudge is a Game-Changer
Unlike traditional fudge recipes that rely on heavy cream and butter, this version uses cream cheese to create a rich and smooth texture. The slight tanginess from the cream cheese perfectly complements the sweetness of the cocoa and powdered sugar, making this fudge indulgent but not overly sugary. Plus, the use of cream cheese eliminates the need for stovetop cooking, making this a perfect beginner-friendly recipe.
Tips for Perfect Fudge
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps in your fudge. Leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwave it for 10–15 seconds.
- Use High-Quality Cocoa: The flavor of your fudge will depend on the cocoa powder you choose. Opt for unsweetened, high-quality cocoa for a deep chocolate flavor.
- Customize the Add-Ins: Don’t stop at nuts! You can mix in dried fruits (like cranberries or cherries), mini marshmallows, or even crushed candy canes for a seasonal twist.
Serving and Storage Suggestions
Serving Ideas
- Gifting: Wrap individual squares in wax paper and place them in a decorative tin for a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Dessert Platters: Arrange fudge squares on a dessert board alongside cookies, truffles, and fresh fruit for a show-stopping presentation.
- Pair with Coffee or Hot Chocolate: The richness of the fudge pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa, making it the perfect afternoon treat.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: Freeze fudge squares in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months—just thaw in the fridge before serving.
Recipe Variations
- Peanut Butter Fudge
- Replace ¼ cup of cocoa powder with ¼ cup of creamy peanut butter for a chocolate-peanut butter twist.
- White Chocolate Fudge
- Swap out the cocoa powder for melted white chocolate to create a creamy, vanilla-flavored fudge.
- Festive Holiday Fudge
- Stir in crushed candy canes and top with holiday sprinkles for a festive treat.
- Salted Caramel Fudge
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the fudge before it sets and sprinkle with sea salt for a decadent sweet-and-salty combo.
