No-Bake Fudge Squares with Sweetened Condensed Milk
A simple homemade fudge recipe combining chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk for a smooth, creamy treat that sets without baking. This american-inspired desserts ready in about 20 minutes layers semi-sweet chocolate chips, (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk, 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 180 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
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Line an 8x8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- Step 2: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk, and 2 tbsp unsalted butter, stirring constantly until the mixture is melted and smooth, about 5 minutes.
- Step 3: Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract and 1/2 cup chopped walnuts if using, mixing until evenly distributed.
- Step 4: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading evenly with a spatula.
- Step 5: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm before slicing into 16 squares.
Frequently asked questions
How long does No-Bake Fudge Squares with Sweetened Condensed Milk 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 No-Bake Fudge Squares with Sweetened Condensed Milk?
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 No-Bake Fudge Squares with Sweetened Condensed Milk?
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 No-Bake Fudge Squares with Sweetened Condensed Milk 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 No-Bake Fudge Squares with Sweetened Condensed Milk?
American 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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