Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Milky Way Fudge is a rich, decadent treat that combines the creamy nougat and caramel flavors of Milky Way candy bars with smooth, chocolatey fudge. It’s an indulgent dessert that’s quick to prepare and perfect for parties, holidays, or as a homemade gift. With minimal ingredients and no baking required, it’s a go-to recipe for satisfying a sweet tooth.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Milky Way candy barsbuttergranulated sugarsweetened condensed milkmarshmallow crèmevanilla extractsemi-sweet chocolate chips
directions
Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper or foil and lightly grease it.
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and chopped Milky Way bars, stirring frequently until smooth.
Add the granulated sugar and sweetened condensed milk to the mixture, stirring constantly until fully incorporated and slightly thickened.
Stir in the marshmallow crème and continue cooking for a few minutes until well blended.
Remove from heat and mix in the chocolate chips and vanilla extract until the fudge is smooth and glossy.
Quickly pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Let the fudge cool at room temperature for about 2 hours, or refrigerate to speed up the process.
Once firm, cut into squares and serve.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 36 pieces of fudge.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesCooling time: 2 hoursTotal time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Variations
Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
Add chopped nuts for crunch and texture.
Top with a caramel drizzle or extra Milky Way pieces for decoration.
Swirl in peanut butter or cookie butter for an extra layer of taste.
storage/reheating
Store Milky Way Fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.Refrigerate for longer freshness up to 2 weeks.Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.No reheating necessary; serve chilled or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I use other candy bars instead of Milky Way?
Yes, you can substitute similar bars like 3 Musketeers or Snickers for different flavor profiles.
Why is my fudge grainy?
Graininess usually comes from undissolved sugar—stir thoroughly and keep the heat consistent.
Do I need a candy thermometer?
No, this recipe doesn’t require one, making it beginner-friendly.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, just use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust the cooling time accordingly.
Is this fudge gluten-free?
Check the candy bar packaging, but most Milky Ways contain gluten. Use gluten-free alternatives if needed.
Can I microwave the ingredients instead of using the stove?
Yes, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
How do I cut clean squares?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. Chilling the fudge first helps.
What if I don’t have marshmallow crème?
You can substitute with mini marshmallows melted into the mix, but the texture may vary.
Can I add sea salt on top?
Yes, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can enhance the flavor and add a nice contrast.
How do I make it firmer?
Chill it longer or reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk slightly.
Conclusion
Milky Way Fudge is an irresistibly creamy, chocolatey dessert that captures the essence of your favorite candy bar in every bite. Simple to make and even easier to enjoy, it’s a crowd-pleaser that fits any occasion—from holiday trays to casual indulgences. Once you try it, you’ll be tempted to make it a staple in your sweet treat repertoire.
PrintMilky Way Fudge
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 36 squares
- Category: Candy / Dessert
- Method: Stovetop melting, Layered, Chilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Rich and creamy fudge inspired by the Milky Way candy bar—layers of nougat and caramel in a chocolate fudge base.
Ingredients
- 2 cups semi‑sweet chocolate chips
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1¼ cups caramel bits or soft caramel chews, unwrapped and chopped
- 1 cup nougat candy bits or chopped nougat bars
- Sea salt flakes, for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions
- Line an 8×8‑inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir constantly until melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour half the chocolate mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle caramel bits evenly over the first layer.
- Pour the remaining chocolate mixture to cover the caramel layer.
- Evenly sprinkle nougat bits on top, gently pressing into the fudge.
- Optionally sprinkle sea salt flakes over the top for contrast.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
- Use the parchment overhang to lift out the fudge; cut into 1‑inch squares and serve.
Notes
- Use soft caramel chews melted slightly if caramel bits are unavailable.
- Substitute milk chocolate chips for a sweeter fudge.
- Make them peanut‑butter fudge bars by adding a swirl of creamy peanut butter before refrigerating.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for longer storage.
- Allow fudge to sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving for easier cutting.