Get ready to fall in love with Easy Chocolate Walnut Fudge, a dreamy treat that’s as rich and decadent as it is simple to make. This crowd-pleasing dessert comes together with just a handful of pantry staples—no fancy candy thermometer or endless stirring sessions required! With a silky chocolate base and plenty of crunchy walnuts in every bite, it’s the perfect sweet fix for holidays, special occasions, or cozy nights in. Whether you’re new to fudge or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become your go-to for something irresistibly chocolatey with a nutty twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love most about this Easy Chocolate Walnut Fudge is how each ingredient plays a starring role, giving you that perfect balance of creamy, chewy, and crunchy. There’s no guesswork here—each component truly matters for the flavor and texture we’re after.
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: These provide all the deep, classic chocolate flavor and a perfectly smooth melt.
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk: This magical ingredient sweetens the fudge and gives it that ultra-creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Butter adds richness and helps the fudge set with a silky finish.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Just a splash boosts the chocolate flavor and adds warmth.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: A little salt balances all that sweetness and draws out the best in both the chocolate and walnuts.
- 1 cup chopped walnuts: Walnuts bring wonderful crunch and a nutty, earthy note that pairs beautifully with chocolate. Toast them for extra flavor!
How to Make Easy Chocolate Walnut Fudge
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper or lightly greased foil. Make sure there’s some overhang on the sides—this will make lifting the finished fudge out of the pan a breeze, so you can slice those gorgeous squares without any sticking or mess.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Mixture
In a medium saucepan set over low heat, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter. Stir constantly with a spatula or wooden spoon. You’ll notice the chocolate and butter melting together into a glossy, thick mixture—it should be completely smooth, so don’t rush this step!
Step 3: Add Flavor and Crunch
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and chopped walnuts. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated. The vanilla and salt will awaken the chocolate, while the walnuts distribute their crunch throughout every bite.
Step 4: Pour and Chill
Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly into the corners and smooth the top. Pop the pan into the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is completely firm and set.
Step 5: Cut and Serve
Once the fudge is set, lift it out of the pan using the parchment or foil overhang. Grab your sharpest knife and cut the fudge into 36 bite-sized squares. Resist the urge to sneak a piece before sharing—though I won’t blame you if you do!
How to Serve Easy Chocolate Walnut Fudge
Garnishes
For a little extra flair, sprinkle the tops with more chopped walnuts, a dusting of cocoa powder, or even a pinch of flaky sea salt. These simple touches make each square look bakery-worthy and add layers of flavor and texture.
Side Dishes
Easy Chocolate Walnut Fudge is rich on its own, but it pairs beautifully with fresh berries, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a mug of strong coffee. These sides balance the sweetness and turn your fudge into a decadent dessert plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re gifting or entertaining, arrange the fudge squares in decorative paper cups or stack them in a festive tin. For a party platter, mix in other bite-sized treats like truffles or caramels. You can even skewer cubes of fudge with fresh fruit for a fun dessert kebab!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Easy Chocolate Walnut Fudge will stay fresh for up to two weeks when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply layer the squares with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking.
Freezing
Need to make it even further in advance? Fudge freezes beautifully! Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap, pop them in a zip-top bag, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
Fudge is usually best served chilled or at room temperature, but if you want a slightly softer, meltier bite, let the squares sit at room temp for 10–15 minutes before enjoying. No need to microwave—just a little patience does the trick!
FAQs
Can I use different nuts or leave them out entirely?
Absolutely! Pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts work just as well, or you can skip the nuts altogether for a smooth, nut-free fudge that’s still rich and satisfying.
How do I know when the fudge is set and ready to cut?
The fudge should feel firm to the touch and not sticky when pressed gently. If you’re unsure, chilling it a bit longer never hurts—overnight is perfect if you want to be extra sure.
Can I use milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips instead?
Yes, feel free to swap in your favorite chocolate chips! Milk chocolate will make a sweeter, creamier fudge, while dark chocolate will give you a deeper, more intense flavor profile.
How can I make this Easy Chocolate Walnut Fudge vegan?
Use dairy-free chocolate chips, plant-based butter, and a vegan sweetened condensed milk (which you can find in many stores or online). The result is a delicious vegan version of this classic treat!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as written, Easy Chocolate Walnut Fudge is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your ingredient labels to ensure everything is certified gluten-free if you’re serving someone with celiac or severe gluten intolerance.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’ll give this Easy Chocolate Walnut Fudge a try—once you see how simple and foolproof it is, you’ll want to make it for every occasion (and maybe just because). It’s rich, creamy, and full of chocolatey goodness with a satisfying walnut crunch. Share it with friends or keep a secret stash for yourself—either way, you’re in for a sweet treat!
