Nutella Fudge

If traditional stovetop candy recipes feel a little intimidating, Nutella fudge proves that homemade treats don’t have to be complicated. This easy fudge recipe uses a secret ingredient—sweetened condensed milk—to create silky smooth, melt-in-your-mouth fudge with zero cooking required. The milk and Nutella add just the right amount of sweetness and help the fudge set with a perfectly creamy texture.

The best part? Nutella fudge comes together in minutes and is ideal for holiday gifting and parties. Simply melt chocolate chips and hazelnut spread in the microwave, stir in a can of condensed milk and a splash of vanilla, and you’re basically done. Finish it with a pinch of flaky sea salt, mix in your favorite add-ins or top it with colorful sprinkles to make each batch your own. The hardest part is waiting for it to chill so you can slice it and sneak a taste.

Ingredients for Nutella Fudge

• Butter: Just a tablespoon of butter helps the chocolate melt smoothly, plus use a bit extra for greasing the foil-lined pan to prevent sticking. Either salted or unsalted works here, so use what you have on hand.
• Chocolate chips: A mix of semisweet and milk chocolate chips gives the fudge balanced sweetness and plenty of chocolaty goodness. Feel free to use all semisweet chocolate or swap in dark chocolate chips for a slightly less sweet fudge.
• Nutella: This chocolate-hazelnut spread gives the fudge its signature nutty flavor and ultra-smooth texture. Store-brand spreads work just as well if you’re looking for a budget-friendly swap.
• Sweetened condensed milk: This thick caramel-sweet milk acts as a binder, perfectly thickening and setting the fudge without cooking. Make sure you’re grabbing sweetened condensed milk not evaporated milk, which is thinner and won’t set the fudge properly.
• Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla rounds out the chocolate and hazelnut flavors with a warm, floral sweetness.

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the pan

Line an 8-inch square pan with foil, leaving some overhang on two opposite sides to make it easier to lift the fudge out. Lightly grease the foil with 1 teaspoon of butter.

Step 2: Melt the fudge base

Combine the chocolate chips, Nutella and the remaining tablespoon of butter in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 1 minute, then pause to stir the mixture. Continue microwaving in 30-second bursts, stirring after each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.

Editor’s Tip: Stop heating as soon as the mixture is mostly melted—residual heat will finish the job and keep the chocolate from scorching.

Step 3: Add the milk and vanilla

Pour the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla into the melted chocolate mixture and stir until well combined.

Step 4: Spread, then chill

Working quickly (the mixture thickens as it cools), spread the fudge into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Refrigerate the fudge until firm.

If desired, sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top before chilling for a sweet and salty dessert.

Step 5: Slice and store

Use the foil to lift the fudge out of the pan. Peel away the foil, then cut the fudge into 1-inch squares. Store the pieces in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Editor’s Tip: Run your knife under warm water and wipe it dry between cuts for the cleanest edges.

Nutella Fudge Variations

• Make it nutty: Stir in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, pecans or hazelnuts for a crunchy contrast. Toast the nuts first on the stovetop or in the oven to enhance their flavor.
• Add peanut butter: Drop small spoonfuls of creamy peanut butter over the fudge before it sets, then gently swirl them together with a knife.
• Try a mix-in or two: Stir in your favorite extras, such as crushed cookies, dried fruit or candies, to add extra texture and flavor to the fudge. Just keep mix-ins to about 1/2 cup—too many add-ins can make the fudge harder to cut or affect its smooth texture.
• Change the chocolate: Swap in dark, white or a combination of chocolate chips for the semisweet or milk chocolate to adjust the sweetness and chocolaty depth to your liking.
• Include a topping: Scatter crushed peppermints, sprinkles or seasonal M&M’s on top before chilling for a fun twist.

How to Store Nutella Fudge

Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks. Before serving, let the fudge sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes to soften slightly for the perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Can you freeze Nutella fudge?

Yes! You can freeze Nutella fudge for several months up to a whole year, so it is ideal for making ahead or getting a head start on homemade gifts. Freeze the entire slab, or cut it into squares and wrap each piece tightly in storage wrap or waxed paper. Place the wrapped fudge in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Nutella Fudge Tips

Can I make Nutella fudge on the stove?

Sure! If you don’t have a microwave, the stovetop works just as well for making this Nutella fudge recipe. Melt chocolate chips, butter and Nutella in a saucepan or double boiler over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching.

Can I double this Nutella fudge recipe?

Yes! You can easily double the ingredients to make a larger batch of Nutella fudge. Spread the fudge in a 9×13-inch pan instead of the 8-inch pan. Keep in mind it may take a little longer for the fudge to chill and set in a larger pan.

How do I get clean, neat squares of fudge?

For the cleanest cuts, run a long, sharp knife under warm water, then wipe it dry before each slice. The warm blade will glide smoothly through the chilled fudge without dragging or crumbling for picture-perfect squares. If the fudge is very firm, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cutting for smoother, more even squares.