Simple No-Bake Fudge Recipe

This rocky road fudge with pecans and marshmallows is the kind of dessert that gets everyone excited. Kids love the gooey marshmallows, adults enjoy the crunch of the nuts, and you’ll love how easy it is to make. It’s a win-win treat that turns any day into something special.

One of the main ingredients is sweetened condensed milk, one of my favorite dessert ingredient. This is what gives the fudge the creaminess you may expect. I’ve also found that using it adds so much flavor and richness to any dessert, including some of my favorite fudge recipes.

The Flavor Combo You Didn’t Know You Needed

Fudge is one of the easiest things you can make. It only takes a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of your time. Adding nuts and marshmallows takes this fudge to a whole new level of deliciousness!

As for the type of chocolate, I like to use semi-sweet chocolate. But you can also make it with milk chocolate. Or mix it for something in between. One of the ingredients provides the creamy rich texture you expect in any fudge. And that is the sweetened condensed milk.

There are so many different types of fudge, including my standard chocolate fudge and this delicious white fudge that you can decorate. Another favorite type of fudge is this yummy peanut butter fudge that sends my senses into orbit with every single bite.

I also enjoy this creamy orange fudge that reminds me of the flavor of Creamsicles. It has swirls of orange throughout, but the flavor is consistent.

What I like about the rocky road fudge is the texture and how each bite is a little bit different. You might get a bit more marshmallow in one and some extra nuttiness in another. Or you may get an equal amount both in one bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The list of ingredients is short for such a powerful delivery of flavor.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chocolate chips
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Butter
• Vanilla extract
• Marshmallows
• Nuts

I sometimes use peanuts, but I just happened to have a big bag of pecans. So that’s what I used for the nuts. If you don’t already have nuts, pick up what you like or what’s on sale.

Prepare to Make Fudge

It’s always a good idea to prepare for the final step at the beginning. That’s the reason I go ahead and line my pan with wax paper.

You can use parchment paper or foil, but I decided to use wax paper this time. It really doesn’t matter which one you use. Now it’s time to actually start making the candy. It goes quickly, so be ready.

Step-by-Step Directions

First, pour the sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and butter into your microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in the microwave for a full 2 minutes.

Remove it from the microwave and give it a good stir. If the chocolate chips haven’t all melted, put it back in the microwave for another 30 seconds.

That should be plenty of time to melt the chips. But if not, keep putting it back in the microwave for 30 seconds at a time.

Once they’ve melted, add the vanilla extract. Stir quickly. Next, add the nuts. Stir the mixture again.

Add the marshmallows. Stir them in carefully.

Finally, pour the mixture into the lined pan. If you’re concerned about the wax melting, you shouldn’t be. The fudge mixture should be warm but not hot enough to melt it. Spread it out evenly.

If you want to see more marshmallows on top, you can press a few more in before it sets. It’s completely up to you how “rocky” you want the top to look.

You’ve finished the “work” part of making fudge. Now all you have to do is stick the pan in the refrigerator so it can set. That’s probably the most difficult part about making fudge. The wait can seem like forever.

Or you can do what I sometimes do and just trim away a little of the edge for a quick nibble. Yes, I know that’s cheating, but what can I say?

The Reward

Once you’ve waited a couple of hours (or forever in my mind), pull the pan out of the fridge. Lift the block of fudge out by the wax paper and place it on a level surface.

Now carefully cut the fudge into squares according to how many servings you want. I like to cut small ones, but if you like huge pieces of fudge, who am I to judge?

Variations & Tips for Success in Making Rocky Road Fudge

The main thing to do is follow the instructions. Here are more tips for success:

• If you want a richer flavor, add more vanilla. Just a teaspoon will add some richness that takes it to the next level.
• Add a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavor even more.
• Before adding the nuts, toast them for a much richer and bolder flavor.
• Chop up some dried fruit and add it to the mixture for another delightful flavor surprise.
• Don’t overdo the nuts and marshmallows in the main part of the batter. If you put too many ingredients with texture, it is more difficult to cut and also more likely to fall apart.
• Let the fudge set at least as long as recommended. A bit longer is even better.

How to Store Fudge

If your house stays cool, you can store it on the counter. However, I like to keep it in the refrigerator to make sure it doesn’t melt. But then I live in the South. And even during the winter, we have a warm day now and then.

Can I Freeze Rocky Road Fudge?

My answer to this question is a resounding yes! You absolutely can freeze fudge. The best way to do this is to put it in an airtight container that’s labeled with the date.

How Do I Cut Fudge Without Breaking it?

Cutting fudge can be very tricky, especially when the fudge is less creamy. I’m sure there are several ways to cut it, but I’ve found one foolproof way that works for me.

I keep a glass of hot water and a paper towel beside me. I dip the knife into the hot water and then slide the knife through the fudge. After each cut, I wipe the blade of the knife and dip the knife back into the water.

How Long Does Fudge Last?

Not long at my house. That’s the quick answer. However, if you have leftover fudge, I recommend wrapping it to make it airtight and storing it in the refrigerator. Then it should last up to a week.

You can freeze it. Again, make sure it’s in an airtight container. Fudge should last a couple of months in the freezer.

Fun to Make and Eat

One of the things I love about fudge is how fun it is to make. Whether you’re making it for a gift or spending time in the kitchen with your kids or grandkids, the process is as fun as the results!

Have you tried rocky road fudge? Please share your thoughts in the comments!

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