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Make rich and creamy fudge in no time with this simple small batch microwave fudge recipe! Perfect for sharing or keeping for yourself, it’s made with just a few ingredients and no candy thermometer or stovetop required. Mix, microwave, and chill for a quick, decadent treat everyone will love.
If you’re a fan of rich, creamy chocolate treats, don’t miss our indulgent Chocolate Lava Cake, our dreamy mini Chocolate Pie with a buttery shortbread crust, our irresistible Oreo Balls, and our quick and satisfying Deep Dish Brownie!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Simple: Skip the stovetop and candy thermometer—this microwave fudge comes together with minimal effort. Just mix, microwave, and chill for a no-fuss treat.
- Perfectly Sized: Designed to make a small batch, this easy fudge recipe is just the right amount for satisfying a sweet craving without leaving you with too much.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer it smooth, loaded with nuts, or with a fun twist like dried fruit or coconut, this chocolate fudge recipe adapts easily to suit your taste.
Microwave fudge offers a quick and simple way to enjoy this classic treat without the need for traditional stovetop cooking. Using the microwave, you can make rich, creamy fudge in a fraction of the time, with no compromise on flavor or texture.
This small batch recipe keeps it simple with just three key ingredients: chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and a splash of vanilla extract. For added crunch, mix in some chopped nuts, or leave them out for a smooth, creamy fudge. In just minutes, you’ll have a delicious, homemade treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
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Ingredients
If you have any ingredients leftover from this small batch fudge recipe, check out our Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (3 ounces / ½ cup): Semi-sweet chocolate chips strike the perfect balance of sweetness and richness, making them ideal for fudge. Feel free to substitute with dark or milk chocolate chips based on your preference. I like using brands like Guittard, Ghirardelli, or Nestle Toll House. If you have leftover chocolate chips, try them in small batch Chocolate Chip Cookies, Blondies, or a mini Flourless Chocolate Cake.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk (3 ounces): This key ingredient adds creaminess and sweetness to your fudge. For a vegan or dairy-free option, substitute with coconut condensed milk. Use any leftovers in recipes like mini Tres Leches Cake, Vanilla Ice Cream, Chocolate Ice Cream, or Key Lime Pie!
- Chopped Walnuts or Pecans (¼ cup): Optional but highly recommended for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. You can swap them for dried fruit or shredded coconut for a unique twist. Leftover nuts are perfect for recipes like small batch Butter Pecan Granola or in a Mini Pecan Pie.
- Vanilla Extract (¼ teaspoon): A small splash of pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the fudge. It’s a simple addition that makes a big difference.
Recipe Variations
This small batch microwave fudge recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
- Dark Chocolate Walnut Fudge: Replace the semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor. Add chopped walnuts for a satisfying crunch and a slightly bitter edge that complements the dark chocolate.
- Milk Chocolate Pecan Fudge: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for milk chocolate chips to create a creamier, sweeter fudge. Add chopped pecans for a buttery crunch that pairs beautifully with milk chocolate.
- Dairy-Free Coconut Almond Fudge: Use dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut condensed milk for a subtle coconut flavor. Replace the nuts with chopped almonds for a delicious pairing.
- Vegan Fudge with Dried Fruit: Combine dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut condensed milk for a vegan option. Stir in chopped dried fruits like cherries, apricots, or dates for a sweet, tangy, and chewy twist.
How To Make Microwave Fudge
Refer to the recipe card below for precise ingredient measurements and detailed step-by-step instructions.
- Prepare the Dish: Line a 5×5-inch baking dish with aluminum foil or parchment paper, leaving enough overhang on the edges to easily lift the fudge out later. Lightly butter or spray the foil with oil spray and set the dish aside.
Note: This dish will not go in the microwave.
Pro Tip for Easy Removal: Use foil or parchment paper with extended edges to make removing the fudge hassle-free once it sets. This step ensures clean edges and easy handling.
- Melt the Chocolate: Combine the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 30 seconds, then stir. Repeat for another 30 seconds, stirring until the chocolate chips are fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Mix the Add-Ins: Stir in the chopped walnuts and vanilla extract until evenly distributed.
- Spread and Chill: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the fudge is firm.
- Cut into Squares: Once the fudge has hardened, lift it out of the dish using the overhanging foil. Cut the fudge into squares and enjoy!
Expert Tips
- Microwave Carefully: Heat the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in short intervals, stirring well after each round. This prevents the mixture from burning and ensures a smooth melt.
- Customize the Texture: For perfectly smooth fudge, skip the nuts or opt for finely chopped ones if you prefer just a hint of crunch.
- Let It Set: Refrigerate the fudge until it’s fully firm. This step is essential for achieving the rich, classic fudge texture you’re looking for.
RELATED: 15 Easy Single Serving Dessert Recipes
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! Double the ingredients and use a larger microwave-safe bowl and a 6×8-inch dish.
Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Yes, use dairy-free chocolate chips and a can of coconut condensed milk as substitutes for the traditional ingredients.
Graininess can happen if the chocolate isn’t fully melted and mixed properly. Stir thoroughly after each microwave interval to ensure a smooth mixture.
Yes, combine the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and melted.
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water, wiping the blade clean between cuts for sharp, neat edges.
Ways To Use Leftover Ingredients
If you have any ingredients leftover from this recipe, check out our Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder or you might like to consider using them in any of these single serving and small batch recipes:
If you’ve tried this small batch chocolate fudge recipe or any recipe on One Dish Kitchen please let me know how you liked it by rating the recipe and telling me about it in the comment section below.
Also, if you take a picture please tag us on Instagram (@onedishkitchen) we’d love to see it!
Small Batch Microwave Fudge
Equipment
Ingredients
- 3 ounces semi sweet chocolate chips (1/2 cup)
- 3 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dish: Line a small baking dish with aluminum foil or parchment paper, leaving enough overhang on the edges to easily lift the fudge out later. Lightly butter or spray the foil with oil spray and set the dish aside.Note: This dish will not go in the microwave.Pro Tip for Easy Removal: Use foil or parchment paper with extended edges to make removing the fudge hassle-free once it sets. This step ensures clean edges and easy handling.
- Melt the Chocolate: Combine the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 30 seconds, then stir. Repeat for another 30 seconds, stirring until the chocolate chips are fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Mix the Add-Ins: Stir in the chopped walnuts and vanilla extract until evenly distributed.
- Spread and Chill: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the fudge is firm.
- Cut into Squares: Once the fudge has hardened, lift it out of the dish using the overhanging foil. Cut the fudge into squares and enjoy!
Notes
- Microwave Carefully: Heat the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in short intervals, stirring well after each round. This prevents the mixture from burning and ensures a smooth melt.
- Customize the Texture: For perfectly smooth fudge, skip the nuts or opt for finely chopped ones if you prefer just a hint of crunch.
- Let It Set: Refrigerate the fudge until it’s fully firm. This step is essential for achieving the rich, classic fudge texture you’re looking for.
Nutrition
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
I started out with a plan to make 3 batches for gifts. It was a big hit! Really fun to do different twists. Cranberry walnut, cherry almond, 5 nut, cherry pistachio…. We obviously made a LOT more than 3 but so well worth it. So simple and delicious!
Thank you! I highly recommend it!
I haven’t had the finished product yet, but if licking the bowl is any indicator, this will be amazing!!! I love these small-batch dessert recipes. My boyfriend is diabetic but has an insatiable sweet tooth. It’s great to find recipes like these that I can whip up for him without a bunch of leftovers that we can’t resist eating!
Enjoy one dish cooking so much! Live alone Senior. Glad I found your recipes!
This is very yummy! I used the one in the cookbook I received in my email. It says to use butter or spray on the foil… I didn’t do that so I did have to peel the foil off the bottom.. BUT, it turned out really good! I am so glad to have small disserts… keeps me from eating too many sweets. Perfect!
I’m glad you enjoyed the fudge. Thank you so much for your feedback.
Can you please give the amount of condensed milk in tablespoons or cups? I don’t have a kitchen scale.
Thanks.
3 ounces is 6 tablespoons.
I’m so excited to have found you, Joanie. This fudge recipe is not only easy to make it’s so creamy delicious. I used milk chocolate. I can’t stop making and eating this.
Thank you much
Sherrie
Sherrie, I’m so happy you found us and I’m thrilled to know you are enjoying the fudge recipe. Thanks so much for taking the time to let me know.
What size pan does this make?
The one shown and mentioned in the recipe measures 5-inches by 5-inches (25 square inches). A 4-inch by 6-inch will work well too.
I made this with home made condensed milk and it never firmed up.
Did you use 1/2 cup (3-ounces) of chocolate chips? Did you refrigerate the fudge? If so, I cannot think of a reason why it did not firm up for you.
Joanie you are a genius! Sitting at home (Covid-19 quarantine) and wanting something sweet, preferably chocolate. I only had half a bag of chocolate chips, so checked out Pinterest for a recipe. Along came yours, I had all of the ingredients except walnuts which was fine with me. This was the fastest, easiest fudge I have ever made and living alone it was the perfect size for one. Although I know it will be gone by tomorrow. When the fudge cooled a bit I threw in a small amount of mini marshmallows, Perfect!