There’s something magical about homemade fudge that store-bought versions simply can’t replicate. This Milky Way Fudge brings together the beloved flavors of the classic candy bar—rich chocolate, smooth caramel, and creamy nougat—in a decadent, melt-in-your-mouth treat. It’s the perfect project for a cozy weekend afternoon, requiring minimal ingredients but delivering maximum indulgence.
Whether you’re making it for a holiday gift exchange, a special dessert platter, or simply to satisfy your own sweet tooth, this celestial confection will transport your taste buds to another galaxy. The best part? No candy thermometer required!
Why You’ll Love This
- No special equipment needed—just a saucepan, a microwave, and a baking dish
- Makes an impressive homemade gift that friends and family will rave about
- The perfect balance of chocolate, caramel, and nougat flavors in every bite
- Can be made ahead and stored for up to two weeks
- Easily customizable with different candy bar flavors or add-ins
Ingredients
- 3 cups (18 oz) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 regular Milky Way bars, chopped
- ¼ cup caramel sauce (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- Line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Melt over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth and fully combined. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Reserve about ¼ of the chopped Milky Way pieces for topping. Fold the remaining Milky Way pieces into the chocolate mixture, working quickly while the mixture is still warm.
- Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Press the reserved Milky Way pieces onto the top of the fudge. If desired, drizzle with caramel sauce.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is completely set. Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into 1-inch squares with a sharp knife. Store in an airtight container.
Tips & Variations
- For a firmer fudge, add 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips to the base mixture
- Try using different candy bars like Snickers, Mars, or 3 Musketeers for unique flavor variations
- Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top for a sweet-salty contrast
- For a more pronounced caramel layer, let the caramel sauce cool slightly before drizzling
- If the fudge is too soft to cut cleanly, place it in the freezer for 10-15 minutes first
- Store in the refrigerator between layers of parchment paper to prevent sticking
Serving Suggestions
Serve these heavenly fudge squares on a dessert platter alongside fresh berries and whipped cream for an elegant presentation. For an extra indulgent treat, warm a piece slightly (about 5 seconds in the microwave) and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of warm caramel sauce.
These fudge squares also make a wonderful addition to a coffee or hot chocolate bar, where guests can enjoy them alongside warm beverages for the perfect sweet pairing.
Notes
- Fudge will keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or refrigerated for up to 2 weeks
- For gift-giving, wrap individual pieces in wax paper and package in decorative tins
- The fudge can be frozen for up to 3 months—thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving
- Properly set fudge should be firm but not hard, with a smooth, creamy texture when bitten into
FAQs
Can I use full-size Milky Way bars instead of fun-size?
Yes! You’ll need approximately 3-4 full-size Milky Way bars to equal 10 fun-size ones. Just chop them into small pieces before adding to the fudge.
Why did my fudge turn out grainy?
Grainy fudge usually happens when the chocolate mixture gets too hot. Be sure to melt everything over low heat and stir constantly to prevent overheating.
Can I make this recipe without dairy?
This particular recipe relies heavily on dairy products for its texture and flavor. For a dairy-free version, you would need to use dairy-free chocolate chips, condensed coconut milk, and dairy-free candy alternatives.
How do I know when the fudge is completely set?
The fudge should feel firm to the touch and not leave residue on your finger when gently pressed. If you insert a toothpick, it should come out clean with minimal stickiness.
[recipe_card]
