Creamy Chocolate Fudge Squares

Name: Creamy Chocolate Fudge Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp salt; Optional: Sea salt for topping

Highlighted under: Chocolate Recipes | Cocoa Treats

I absolutely love making Creamy Chocolate Fudge Squares, especially when I want to treat my friends or family to something decadent. This recipe is incredibly easy, requiring just a handful of ingredients. Each square offers a rich and smooth chocolate experience that simply melts in your mouth. I still remember the first time I made these; the excitement on my loved ones’ faces when they took their first bite was priceless. With the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess, it's hard to resist reaching for just one more square!

Created by

Mia

Last updated on 2026-02-11T14:49:28.269Z

As I stood in my kitchen surrounded by the rich aroma of melting chocolate, I knew I had stumbled upon something special with this creamy fudge recipe. The trick, I discovered, was in the gentle melting of the chocolate and butter together, which creates that luxurious glaze that feels like silk on the tongue. Making these squares has become a delightful ritual for me!

Over the years, I've tried various mix-ins and toppings, but I find that keeping it simple with just a sprinkle of sea salt enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully. This attention to detail is what has turned my simple fudge into a beloved treat for gatherings!

        Why You'll Love These Fudge Squares
        Rich chocolate flavor that satisfies any sweet tooth
Silky texture that melts in your mouth effortlessly
Perfect for sharing at any gathering or celebration

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of these Creamy Chocolate Fudge Squares lies in the ingredients used. Semi-sweet chocolate chips provide that rich chocolate flavor, while unsweetened cocoa powder amplifies the chocolate intensity, creating a deep, indulgent taste. It's essential to use high-quality chocolate, as this directly affects the final flavor of your fudge. If you're inclined to experiment, dark chocolate chips could be swapped in for a slightly more intense, bittersweet flavor that complements the sweetness of the condensed milk.

Unsalted butter plays a crucial role, contributing to the smooth texture of the fudge. By using unsalted butter, you can better control the seasoning of the recipe. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, substituting coconut oil in equal amounts can achieve a similarly creamy texture while keeping it dairy-free. Additionally, the sweetened condensed milk is the secret ingredient that not only sweetens the fudge but also provides a luxurious creaminess that helps it set beautifully.

Perfecting Your Technique

When melting the chocolate and butter, be patient and maintain a low heat. This prevents the chocolate from seizing or becoming grainy. Stirring constantly is key; watch for a glossy and smooth consistency before removing it from the heat. If you accidentally overheat your chocolate and it becomes thick or lumpy, you can add a small splash of milk or cream to rescue it and regain that silky finish.

Once you incorporate the condensed milk and cocoa powder into the melted chocolate, it's vital to mix thoroughly. This ensures all ingredients are well combined and prevents any cocoa clumps from forming. The mixture should be uniform and smooth, making it easier to spread in your baking dish. Additionally, don’t skip the refrigeration step—it allows the fudge to set properly, achieving the perfect texture that you want in every bite.

Serving and Storage Tips

These fudge squares are incredibly versatile in serving. They can be enjoyed as is or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture. For a festive touch, consider drizzling melted white chocolate over the squares before cutting them, which not only adds visual appeal but a new layer of flavor that complements the rich chocolate.

If you have leftovers, store the fudge squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator; they can last for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Simply layer them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they will keep well for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator for a couple of hours for the best texture.

Ingredients

Fudge Ingredients

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt
Optional: Sea salt for topping

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a medium saucepan, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and unsalted butter. Heat over low, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.

Combine Ingredients

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.

Pour and Set

Spread the mixture evenly into a lined 8x8 inch baking dish. If desired, sprinkle sea salt on top. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.

Slice and Serve

Once set, remove from the baking dish and slice into squares. Enjoy your delicious creamy chocolate fudge!

Pro Tips

For a fun twist, try adding chopped nuts or dried fruits to the fudge mixture before pouring it into the baking dish.

Flavor Variations

If you want to switch things up, consider adding flavors like espresso powder or a splash of almond extract to the fudge mixture. Espresso powder will enhance the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee, while almond extract gives a beautiful nutty note that pairs wonderfully with chocolate. You can also mix in chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans before spreading the mixture into the baking dish for added texture.

For a fruity twist, try stirring in a handful of dried cherries or cranberries. This addition not only provides a pop of color but also a chewy texture that complements the silky fudge. Experimenting with these variations can make your fudge squares uniquely yours and get your friends asking for your secret!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your fudge doesn't set properly, it may be because it wasn’t refrigerated long enough or it was not heated sufficiently during cooking. Make sure to allow the fudge to chill for a full two hours, or even longer if your kitchen is warmer. If you find your fudge is still too soft, you can return it to the saucepan, gently reheat it, and add a bit more cocoa powder while stirring until it reaches the right consistency before pouring it back into the dish to set again.

Another common issue is chocolate seizing. If you notice your melted chocolate has a gritty texture, it may have been cooked at too high a temperature or had too much moisture. To prevent this, ensure you are using a dry bowl and utensil while melting and keep the heat low. Always stir gently until melted and shiny.

Scaling the Recipe

This fudge recipe is easily scalable, allowing you to double or triple it for larger gatherings. If you decide to scale up, use a larger baking dish (such as a 9x13 inch) to ensure even thickness. Keep in mind that spray or line the dish with parchment paper will still be necessary to easily lift the fudge out once it’s set.

When scaling, pay attention to the cooking time as well; larger batches may require an additional few minutes of refrigeration to fully firm up. Also, consider enhancing the flavor by adding additional toppings, like crushed cookies or candy pieces, to cater to the size of your crowd. This customization can make each batch feel special and exciting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Yes, dark chocolate will give a richer flavor to the fudge.

→ How long can I store these fudge squares?

They can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

→ Can I freeze the fudge?

Absolutely! Place the squares in a single layer between sheets of parchment paper and store in a freezer-safe container.

→ Is it necessary to use unsweetened cocoa powder?

Yes, unsweetened cocoa powder balances the sweetness from the condensed milk for a perfect flavor.