Galaxy Caramel Fudge

Indulge in Irresistible Milky Way Fudge: The Easiest 3-Ingredient Recipe You’ll Ever Make!

Prepare to be amazed! Who would have thought that one of the simplest dessert recipes imaginable could also be the one that garners the most enthusiastic compliments? This incredibly easy Milky Way Fudge is a true culinary marvel, requiring just three basic ingredients to create a rich, creamy, and utterly decadent treat. Forget complicated confectionery techniques; with this recipe, you’ll be whipping up batches of luscious fudge that will have your friends and family raving – just like mine did! It’s the perfect solution for busy schedules, impromptu gatherings, or simply when a powerful chocolate craving strikes. Get ready to impress everyone with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

This delightful creation came to life as part of another installment of our beloved “Two Sweetie Pies” series, where my friend Danielle and I challenge ourselves to try out recipes from each other’s blogs. This time, I dove into her blog, and her Easy Fudge Recipe was an absolute triumph! It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can yield extraordinary results.

Decadent Milky Way Fudge squares stacked on a small white plate, adorned with fun-sized Milky Way candy bars, showcasing the smooth chocolate and nougat swirl.

Why You Must Make This Incredible Milky Way Fudge

There are countless reasons why this 3-ingredient Milky Way Fudge deserves a prime spot in your recipe collection. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience waiting to happen. Here’s why this recipe will become your new go-to:

  • Unforgettable Compliments Guaranteed: I first made this microwave candy bar fudge for a New Year’s Eve gathering. By the time the party wound down, I wasn’t just sharing goodbyes, but also promising to email the recipe to eager friends. One friend’s husband even hinted (not so subtly!) at how much he’d appreciate a second batch delivered straight to his mailbox. This fudge doesn’t just get eaten; it gets requested again and again!
  • Effortless Decadence with Just 3 Ingredients: Imagine creating a dessert that tastes like it took hours, but only required three simple items: quality chocolate chips, one can of sweetened condensed milk, and delightful Milky Way candy bars. These humble components combine to form a truly dreamy fudge with a rich chocolate base and hints of caramel and nougat from the candy bars. It’s a magical transformation from pantry staples to gourmet-level indulgence.
  • A Breeze to Prepare: This isn’t just an easy recipe; it’s practically foolproof. You don’t need specialized equipment, advanced baking skills, or even a lengthy ingredient list. The entire process takes mere minutes in the microwave, making it one of the quickest and most satisfying desserts you’ll ever master. It’s perfect for beginner bakers or anyone looking for a quick fix for their sweet tooth without compromising on flavor.
  • Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a grand holiday feast, planning a casual potluck, preparing a thoughtful homemade gift, or simply craving a sweet treat for yourself, this Milky Way Fudge fits the bill. Its rich flavor and satisfying texture make it a crowd-pleaser for any event, big or small, proving that simplicity can indeed lead to spectacular results.

Essential Ingredient Notes for Perfect Fudge

While this recipe is incredibly simple, selecting the right ingredients can make all the difference in achieving that perfect creamy texture and rich flavor. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: You’ll need 1 (14-ounce) can of sweetened condensed milk. I personally recommend using a trusted brand like Eagle Brand for consistent results. This ingredient is key to the fudge’s creamy texture and sweetness, as it provides both the liquid and sugar needed without requiring additional crystallization steps. Do not confuse it with evaporated milk; they are not interchangeable in this recipe.
  • Semisweet Chocolate Chips: A 12-ounce bag of semisweet chocolate chips works wonderfully here. I often opt for Ghirardelli brand for its quality and flavor, but any good quality semisweet chocolate chip will suffice. While you can chop them for quicker melting, I’ve found it’s not strictly necessary as they melt easily in the microwave. If you prefer a richer, less sweet fudge, feel free to experiment with bittersweet chocolate chips. For a softer, sweeter fudge, milk chocolate chips can be used, but be aware it will alter the final texture slightly.
  • Fun-sized Milky Way Candy Bars: You’ll need approximately 6 ounces of Milky Way candy bars, which usually translates to about 10 fun-sized bars. These should be chopped and divided. A portion of the chopped candy bars will be melted into the fudge mixture, infusing it with that signature Milky Way caramel and nougat flavor. The remaining chopped pieces will be stirred in just before spreading, adding delightful pockets of chewy texture and visual appeal to the finished fudge. Make sure they are truly fun-sized, not miniature or full-sized, for accurate measurements.
Close-up of freshly made Milky Way Fudge squares, neatly stacked on a white plate set against a festive red and white checkered napkin, highlighting their smooth texture.

Simple Steps to Master This Easy Fudge Recipe

Making this Milky Way Fudge is so straightforward, you’ll wonder why you haven’t tried it sooner. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the minimal effort required:

  1. Prepare Your Pan: First, ensure your pan is ready. An 8-inch square pan is ideal for the thickness of this fudge. Line it with non-stick foil or parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This thoughtful step will be your best friend when it comes time to lift the cooled fudge out for easy slicing. Lightly grease the foil/parchment for extra assurance.
  2. Combine Ingredients in Microwave-Safe Bowl: In a generously sized microwave-safe bowl, combine your full bag of chocolate chips, the entire can of sweetened condensed milk, and about half of your chopped fun-sized Milky Way bars. Give them a quick stir to loosely combine everything before microwaving.
  3. Microwave and Stir Until Smooth: Place the bowl in the microwave and heat for 1 minute. Carefully remove the bowl (it will be hot!) and stir the mixture vigorously. The chocolate chips and candy bars will begin to soften and melt. Return it to the microwave and continue heating in additional bursts of 20 seconds, stirring thoroughly after each burst. This gradual heating prevents scorching and ensures even melting. Keep going until the mixture is beautifully smooth and glossy. Don’t worry if there are a few tiny unmelted pieces; they often dissolve with continued stirring from residual heat.
  4. Incorporate Remaining Candy Bars: Once your fudge mixture is smooth and perfectly melted, stir in the remaining half of your chopped Milky Way candy bars. These pieces won’t melt entirely but will add delightful chunks of chewy caramel and nougat throughout the fudge, enhancing both texture and flavor.
  5. Spread into Prepared Pan: Promptly scrape the mixture into your greased, foil-lined pan. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to gently spread and smooth the top evenly. Don’t press too hard; just ensure it’s a uniform layer.
  6. Cool and Set: This is arguably the hardest part – waiting! Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for at least an hour, or until it has firmed up completely. For quicker setting, you can place it in the refrigerator. Pinky swear, the wait is worth it for perfectly set fudge!
  7. Slice and Serve: Once fully set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the foil overhang and transfer it to a cutting board. For the cleanest, most precise squares, use a sharp knife and cut the fudge when chilled. If you prefer a creamier, softer texture, let it come back to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade masterpiece!
Perfectly cut Milky Way Fudge squares arranged artfully on a white dessert plate, ready to be enjoyed.

Pro Tips for the Best Milky Way Fudge

Elevate your homemade Milky Way Fudge with these expert tips, ensuring every batch is a resounding success. From ingredient variations to serving suggestions, these insights will help you customize and perfect your sweet creation:

  • Chocolate Chip Choices: While I typically use semisweet chocolate chips for a balanced flavor, don’t hesitate to experiment. Milk chocolate chips will yield a softer, sweeter fudge, which is wonderful if you have a significant sweet tooth. If you prefer a richer, more intense chocolate flavor that isn’t overly sweet, bittersweet chocolate chips are an excellent choice. The key is to use a good quality brand for the best melting and flavor.
  • Candy Bar Customization: The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. If Milky Way isn’t your favorite, or if you simply want to try something new, you can easily substitute them with the same amount of fun-sized 3 Musketeers or Snickers bars. 3 Musketeers will offer a lighter, fluffier nougat experience, while Snickers will add peanuts and more caramel chewiness. Feel free to mix and match or even try other caramel-nougat based candy bars!
  • The Non-Stick Foil Trick: Lining your pan with non-stick foil is a game-changer. This simple step makes it incredibly easy to lift the entire slab of fudge from the pan once it has cooled and set. You can then transfer it effortlessly onto a cutting board, which allows for clean, precise slicing without any sticking or mess. If you don’t have non-stick foil, regular foil works too, but ensure you grease it well.
  • Achieving Perfect Squares: For the cleanest, most professional-looking squares, always cut this fudge when it’s thoroughly chilled. Pop it into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or longer) before slicing. A sharp, warm knife can also help; run your knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and then slice. For a creamier, melt-in-your-mouth texture when serving, bring the cut squares back to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes.
  • Storage and Shelf Life: Store your homemade Milky Way Fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If refrigerated, allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. Fudge also freezes wonderfully for up to 3 months; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
  • Gifting Ideas: This fudge makes an exceptional homemade gift! Package squares in decorative boxes or cello bags tied with a ribbon. It’s perfect for holiday gift baskets, teacher appreciation, or just a thoughtful gesture for a friend. Add a small tag with the ingredients and a note about how easy it was to make.

The Two Sweetie Pies Collaboration: A Recipe Exchange Journey

The “Two Sweetie Pies” series is a delightful collaboration where Danielle and I explore and share each other’s culinary creations. It’s a wonderful way to discover new recipes, inspire creativity, and connect with a wider community of food enthusiasts. You can find all our shared recipes by searching for the #TwoSweetiePies hashtag across social media and blogs. Be sure to dive into Danielle’s delicious world by following her on her social media sites and blog:

  • Hugs & Cookies XOXO
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

For this specific installment, Danielle created my Caramel Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars. Thank you, my dear friend, for another successful and delicious exchange! xoxo

Explore More Delicious Fudge Recipes You May Also Like

Fudge is more than just a holiday staple in our house; it’s a versatile treat perfect for gifting or enjoying year-round. If you’ve loved this Milky Way Fudge, you’re in for a treat with these other irresistible fudge creations from my kitchen:

  • My family absolutely adores this Double Decker Oreo Fudge, a layered delight featuring a creamy chocolate base topped with a vanilla Oreo-studded layer.
  • Embrace the festive spirit with these charming Fudge Snowflakes, perfect for holiday gifting or winter gatherings.
  • For a classic combination, you can’t go wrong with my rich and gooey Chocolate Marshmallow Fudge, a perennial favorite.
  • Looking for a seasonal twist? This smooth and subtly spiced Pumpkin Fudge is a perfect autumnal indulgence.
  • And for an even wider array of sweet delights, browse through more of my Dessert and Candy Recipes – you’re sure to find your next favorite treat!
Milky Way Fudge | That Skinny Chick Can Bake
The Recipe:

Milky Way Fudge Recipe

Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
3 minutes
Total Time
8 minutes
Yield
64 squares

Milky Way Fudge – Who knew one of the easiest recipes I’ve ever made would be the recipient of the most compliments?  This Milky Way Fudge was made from just three ingredients.

Ingredients

  • 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
  • 6 ounces of Milky Way candy bars, chopped, divided (I used 10 Fun Sized Milky Way bars)

Instructions

  1. Line an 8-inch pan with nonstick foil.
  2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the condensed milk, chocolate chips, and HALF the candy bar chunks.
  3. Microwave for 1 minute and then stir. Microwave for additional bursts of 20 seconds (stirring after each burst) until the mixture is smooth. (It won’t matter if there are a few unmelted pieces).
  4. Stir in the rest of the Milky Way chunks.
  5. Spread mixture into pan, using an offset spatula to smooth the top. Let cool for at least an hour.
  6. Take the fudge out of the pan by lifting up the foil and transferring it to a cutting board. Cut into small pieces.

Notes

Recipe adapted from Hugs & Cookies XOXO via RecipeBoy.com. Total time does not include 1 hour cooling time.

Recommended Products

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

  • Silicone Spatula
  • Set of Glass Mixing Bowls
  • Small Offset Spatula

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

32

Serving Size:

2 squares

Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 80Total Fat: 4gSaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 1mgSodium: 12mgCarbohydrates: 11gFiber: 1gSugar: 10gProtein: 1g

HOW MUCH DID YOU LOVE THIS RECIPE?

Please leave a comment on the blog or share a photo on Pinterest

© Liz Berg


Cuisine:

American

/
Category: Chocolate

There you have it – a truly simple yet spectacularly delicious recipe for Milky Way Fudge that promises to be a hit with everyone who tastes it. This easy 3-ingredient dessert is proof that you don’t need complex techniques or a long list of ingredients to create something truly special. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and prepare for the compliments to roll in!