This See’s Candy Fudge recipe is the perfect way to recreate that iconic treat at home. Made with rich chocolate, evaporated milk, and a touch of vanilla, this fudge is as decadent as the classic See’s original recipe we all know and love.
Ideal for holiday gifting, special occasions, or when you simply crave something sweet, this smooth creamy fudge comes together quickly and makes a big batch perfect for sharing.
It's the perfect treat for make-ahead planning, as it stores well in the fridge and even freezes well. Whether you're enjoying it with family or giving it as a gift, this chocolate fudge is a guaranteed hit every time.
Since you love copycat dessert recipes, check out this Cracker Barrel Banana Pudding Recipe, this Copycat Krispy Kreme Doughnut Recipe, or this Starbucks Brownies Recipe.
Ingredients for this See's Fudge Recipe
Here are the ingredients you will need to make the best fudge recipe. Scroll down to the recipe card at the bottom of the page for the detailed ingredient measurements.
- Granulated Sugar: provides sweetness and structure.
- Evaporated Milk: adds richness and creaminess to the fudge without adding too much moisture, helping create a velvety consistency.
- Unsalted Butter: adds a rich flavor and helps the ingredients melt together smoothly.
- Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips: is the main chocolate component that gives the fudge its deep, rich chocolate flavor.
- Marshmallow Creme: contributes to the fudge’s light, fluffy texture and helps stabilize it, preventing graininess.
- Vanilla Extract: enhances the overall sweetness and adds a warm, aromatic depth to the fudge.
- Chopped Walnuts: adds a crunchy texture and a nutty contrast to the smooth chocolate that makes the fudge even more indulgent.
How to make this See's Candy Fudge Recipe
This is how you can make this perfect fudge recipe. Make sure to scroll down to the recipe card at the end of this post for the full step-by-step instructions!
- Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or foil, leaving extra on the sides to easily lift the fudge out later. Lightly grease the lined pan to ensure the fudge doesn’t stick.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, evaporated milk, and butter. Stir frequently until the butter is fully melted and the sugar has dissolved. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly.
- Once it comes to a rolling boil, continue stirring for about 9-10 minutes with a wooden spoon, or until the mixture reaches 234°F–240°F (the soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
- Remove the large pan from the heat. Mix chocolate chips and marshmallow creme into the hot mixture, stirring until everything is smooth and fully melted.
- Add the vanilla extract and, if desired, the chopped walnuts, and stir to combine.
- Pour the fudge into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Allow the fudge to cool completely at room temperature or refrigerate until set, which will take about 2-3 hours.
- Once set, use the overhanging parchment or foil to lift the homemade fudge out of the pan. Cut pieces into squares, and enjoy!
Why do you need to make this recipe?
- This good recipe delivers a deep, creamy chocolate taste, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
- This old-fashioned fudge is perfect for gifting and makes thoughtful and delicious gift for any special occasion.
- Add your favorite mix-ins like walnuts or even drizzle with caramel or sea salt for a personalized touch.
- This easy fudge recipe only requires a few basic ingredients that you can find at any grocery store.
Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ
Can I use a different type of chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips?
Yes, you can substitute the semi-sweet with milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips, depending on your preference. Just keep in mind that milk chocolate will result in a sweeter fudge, while dark chocolate will give it a richer, more intense flavor. If you don't want to use any chocolate at all, I love this brown sugar fudge recipe!
What is the purpose of the marshmallow creme?
Marshmallow creme helps give the fudge a smooth, creamy texture and prevents it from becoming grainy. It also adds a touch of sweetness. It's part of the secret recipe that gives the fudge from See's Family Candy Shops its iconic flavor.
How do I know if my fudge has reached the soft-ball stage?
The soft-ball stage is when the sugar mixture reaches 234°F–240°F. If you don’t have a candy thermometer, you can drop a small amount of the mixture into ice cold water. If it forms a soft, pliable ball, then it’s ready.
Can I add other ingredients like nuts or dried fruit?
Absolutely! Walnuts are a classic addition, but you can also mix in pecans, almonds, or dried fruits like cranberries for extra texture and flavor.
How should I store leftovers of this See's candy fudge recipe?
Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Don't let it stay out or else it will get hard. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for 2-3 weeks or freeze it for up to 3 months. Be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving.
Why is my fudge grainy?
Grainy fudge can occur if the sugar wasn’t fully dissolved or if the mixture wasn’t stirred constantly. Make sure to stir thoroughly and consistently during the cooking process to prevent crystallization.
Copycat See's Candy Fudge Recipe
See’s Candies Fudge Copycat Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 & 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 12 oz evaporated milk
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 18 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 7 oz marshmallow creme (or fluff)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or foil, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the lining to prevent sticking.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, evaporated milk, and butter. Stir frequently until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly.4 & 1/2 cups granulated sugar, 12 oz evaporated milk, 1 cup unsalted butter
- Once boiling, continue to stir constantly for about 9-10 minutes (or until the mixture reaches 234°F–240°F on a candy thermometer for soft-ball stage).
- Remove from heat and quickly stir in the chocolate chips, and marshmallow creme until smooth and fully melted.18 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips, 7 oz marshmallow creme (or fluff)
- Stir in the vanilla extract and the chopped walnuts.2 tsp vanilla extract, 1 ½ cups chopped walnuts
- Immediately pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. You can top it with a few more walnut pieces for a beautiful finish.
- Let the fudge cool completely at room temperature or refrigerate it until set. This could take about 2–3 hours.
- Once the fudge is firm, lift it out of the pan using the overhanging parchment or foil. Cut into squares and enjoy your creamy, rich fudge!
Notes
• Don’t skip the marshmallow creme: It helps give the fudge that signature creamy texture.
• Customize: You can omit the walnuts or replace them with other nuts, such as pecans or almonds, for a variation.
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