We Made the Original Fantasy Fudge Recipe—and It Still Stacks Up Decades Later
Updated: Feb. 08, 2024
Make this classic fudge recipe in three simple steps!
Whether you enjoy a piece of fudge during the holidays or have a favorite flavor at one of the best fudge shops in America, this old-fashioned sweet is the perfect treat. Its rich, creamy texture and delicious flavor are unmatched. Plus, there are so many types of fudge to experiment with.
But despite all the creative flavor options (such as birthday cake fudge or black cherry swirl), there’s one popular type of fudge that has stood the test of time. It’s fantasy fudge, a back-of-the-package recipe that became a family tradition for countless households. And after making this old recipe, we see why it’s a classic!
What Is Fantasy Fudge?
The original recipe for fantasy fudge made its debut on the back of a jar of marshmallow creme fluff. It combines chocolate chips with creamy marshmallow for a delicious bite. Even better? It’s dotted with chopped walnuts for added flavor and texture. The original recipe no longer lives on the marshmallow creme label, but it does live on in recipe boxes everywhere.
How to Make the Original Fantasy Fudge
Ingredients
- 3 cups sugar
- 3/4 cup margarine
- 2/3 cup evaporated milk
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 jar marshmallow creme
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Tools You’ll Need
- Dutch Oven: It’s important to heat the fudge base evenly. Use a heavy pot, such as a Dutch oven, for the best heat distribution while the sugar mixture is boiling.
- Silicone Spatula: You’ll only need one spoon or spatula throughout the process of making this fudge. Be sure to use a sturdy, heat-resistant option.
- 13×9 Pan: Spread your fudge into a prepared 13×9-inch pan as the ideal mold for this recipe.
Directions
Step 1: Boil the fudge base
Prep a 13×9-inch pan by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it with cooking spray. In a large pot over medium heat, add the sugar, margarine and evaporated milk. Stir to dissolve the sugar, and then bring the mixture to a boil for 5 minutes and stir constantly.
Step 2: Add the chocolate and marshmallow creme
Remove the pot from the heat and add in the chocolate chips. Stir until the chocolate chips are fully melted. Then mix in the marshmallow creme, walnuts and vanilla.
Step 3: Transfer and set
Spread the fudge into the prepared pan. Allow it to fully cool and set, about two hours, before cutting into small squares.
Here’s What I Thought
Truth be told, despite my love for baked goods, fudge has never been a treat I’ve had much interest in. I’ve often found it a bit too dense and rich for my liking, and I had never actually made my own batch at home. Until now! And I’m sure glad I did.
This no-fail fantasy fudge recipe 100 percent lives up to its name—and I can see why it has lived on for decades. The addition of the marshmallow creme makes it so fluffy, and it just melts in your mouth. It’s not too dense or too rich. The flavor is spot-on, and I love the addition of chopped walnuts for added texture. Even better? If you’re a novice fudge-maker, like me, it’s absolutely achievable in a few easy steps. No fancy tools, no candy thermometer required.
How to Store Fudge
Homemade fudge can last for quite a while when stored properly. Wrap up your extras and keep them in the fridge or freezer in an airtight container. That way, you’ll have delicious fudge ready and on hand to pull out for a sweet treat whenever a craving hits!
Originally Published: December 17, 2021
