Easy Pantry Fudge Squares
Simple no-bake fudge made with pantry staples for a quick and satisfying sweet treat. This desserts-inspired desserts ready in about 20 minutes layers (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk, semisweet chocolate chips, unsalted butter into a dessert worth slowing down for — great for weekend baking, holiday tables, or any time you want a sweet payoff at the end of a meal. Each serving lands at about 150 calories and feeds 16, so it slots into a weekend bake or a special-occasion dessert tray. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup, optional chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Step 1: Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk, 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips, and 3 tbsp unsalted butter.
- Step 2: Stir continuously for 5-7 minutes until the mixture is smooth, glossy, and thickened, taking care not to scorch.
- Step 3: Remove the pan from heat and stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract and 1/2 cup chopped walnuts if using.
- Step 4: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm.
- Step 5: Lift the fudge out using the parchment overhang and cut into 1-inch squares. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Easy Pantry Fudge Squares take to make?
Total time is about 20 minutes (10 min prep + 10 min cook). Most home bakers find this fits a weekend afternoon; chill or store as the recipe directs before serving.
How do I store leftover Easy Pantry Fudge Squares?
Cool fully before storing. Most baked desserts keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cream- or custard-based desserts must go in the fridge within 2 hours; reheat gently or serve cold per the recipe.
Can I substitute ingredients in Easy Pantry Fudge Squares?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Easy Pantry Fudge Squares for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 16 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 16). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
What goes well with Easy Pantry Fudge Squares?
Desserts desserts like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
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