Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Chocolate Pecan Fudge

Name: Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Chocolate Pecan Fudge
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, well drained; 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped; 1/4 cup pecans, finely chopped (plus extra for rolling); 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Additional finely chopped pecans for rolling

Author: Lora

Published: December 20, 2025

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Introduction to Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Chocolate Pecan Fudge

Hey there, fellow chocolate lovers! If you’re craving a sweet treat but find yourself short on time, you’re in for a delightful surprise with Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Chocolate Pecan Fudge. This recipe is like a hug in a square, offering rich chocolate and crunchy pecans to satisfy even the busiest sweet tooth. It’s perfect for those hectic days when you want to whip up something special without spending hours in the kitchen. So, gather around, and let’s dive into this quick and indulgent fudge that’s bound to impress your loved ones!

Why You’ll Love This Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Chocolate Pecan Fudge

Life can be a whirlwind, especially for busy moms and professionals. That’s why I adore Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Chocolate Pecan Fudge. It’s not just quick to make; it’s irresistibly creamy and has that wonderful nutty crunch. In just five minutes, you’ll have a dessert that feels like it took hours! Plus, it’s a sure hit at gatherings, making your life just a tad sweeter without the fuss.

Ingredients for Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Chocolate Pecan Fudge

Now, let’s gather our ingredients for this indulgent treat! Each component plays a vital role in creating that sinfully smooth fudge. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cream cheese: This is the secret to a rich and creamy texture. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Crushed pineapple: Adds a touch of sweetness and moisture, balancing the cocoa flavor beautifully.
Dried cranberries: These provide a pop of tartness, bringing depth to the sweetness of the fudge.
Pecans: Chopped, they add a delightful crunch. Plus, it’s always nice to have a few extra for rolling!
Powdered sugar: This sweetener blends well, ensuring your fudge is perfectly sweet without any grittiness.
Vanilla extract: A must for enriching flavor! It brightens every bite and complements the chocolate perfectly.
Ground cinnamon: Just a pinch gives warmth and enhances the overall taste. You won’t regret this addition!
Salt: A little bit elevates those sweet flavors. It’s surprising, but it makes all the difference!
Additional pecans: For rolling or garnishing, these make your fudge look even more delightful!

The exact quantities for these ingredients can be found at the bottom of the article for easy printing. Trust me, once you have these simple ingredients on hand, you’ll wonder why you ever went without this fudge in your life!

How to Make Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Chocolate Pecan Fudge

Now comes the fun part! Making Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Chocolate Pecan Fudge is straightforward and allows you to indulge in chocolatey goodness in no time. Let’s get started with the steps, shall we?

Prepare the Pan

First things first, grab an 8×8-inch pan. Line it with parchment paper or foil, making sure to leave some overhang. This will help you lift the fudge out easily later. You’ll want to take about 3 minutes on this step. Trust me, it’s worth it to avoid a sticky mess!

Create the Base

Next, in a medium saucepan, combine the evaporated milk, sugar, and salt. Place it over medium heat, stirring constantly until it reaches a rolling boil. This will take around 3–4 minutes. Keep your eyes on it—nobody likes a scorched treat!

Boil and Stir

Once your mixture is boiling, continue stirring for about 4–5 minutes. This step helps to thicken the base of our fudge, so don’t rush. The aroma wafting through your kitchen is absolutely divine!

Melt in the Goodness

Remove your saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract. This magical moment should take around 2 minutes. Keep stirring until everything is melted and smooth. I mean, who doesn’t love a melty chocolate concoction?

Add the Pecans

Now, let’s fold in those chopped pecans until they’re evenly distributed throughout the chocolatey goodness. This should only take about 1 minute. The pecans add that perfect crunch, making each bite exciting!

Pour and Smooth

Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared pan and use a spatula to smooth the top. This step should take another 2 minutes. You want it to look as good as it tastes because we eat with our eyes first, right?

Finish with Pecan Halves

To give it a bakery-style finish, gently press some pecan halves into the surface. Allot around 2 minutes for this. It adds a lovely touch and shows off those beautiful pecans!

Cool and Set

Now comes the waiting game! Let your fudge cool at room temperature or pop it into the fridge until it’s fully set, which will take about 2 hours. This is the hardest part, I know, but the anticipation makes it so much sweeter!

Slice and Enjoy

Finally, once your fudge is completely set, lift it out using the parchment paper overhang. Slice it into squares and enjoy every rich bite. This will take about 3 minutes, but you won’t regret it. Your taste buds will thank you!

Tips for Success

Always use softened cream cheese for easy blending and creaminess.
Make sure your evaporated milk is fresh to avoid any off-flavors.
Keep stirring diligently while boiling to prevent scorching.
Add a pinch of salt to elevate the sweetness of your fudge.
Be patient while cooling; this ensures the perfect texture.

Equipment Needed

8×8-inch pan: You can also use a similar-sized dish if you don’t have one.
Parchment paper or foil: Baking spray is another option if you prefer not to line the pan.
Medium saucepan: A larger pot works too, just be cautious with the boiling.
Spatula: A wooden spoon can serve just as well for mixing.
Measuring cups: Essential for accuracy; a kitchen scale can also help!

Variations of Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Chocolate Pecan Fudge

Nut-Free Option: Substitute pecans with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely for a nut-free treat.
Dark Chocolate Version: For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. It elevates the taste!
Flavored Fudge: Add a dash of peppermint extract during the melting process for a festive twist.
Fruit and Nut Medley: Mix in dried cherries or coconut for an exciting blend of flavors and textures.
Vegan Alternative: Use coconut cream instead of cream cheese and choose dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan-friendly fudge.

Serving Suggestions for Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Chocolate Pecan Fudge

Coffee: Pair your fudge with a strong cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.
Ice Cream: Serve alongside vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
Fruit Plate: Add fresh berries to balance the richness with a refreshing touch.
Gift Treats: Package in cute boxes for thoughtful homemade gifts!

FAQs about Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Chocolate Pecan Fudge

Can I use different nuts in this fudge?
Absolutely! While pecans are wonderful, you can swap them for walnuts, almonds, or even skip nuts altogether if you prefer a nut-free version.

How should I store Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Chocolate Pecan Fudge?
Store your fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, refrigeration will do the trick!

Can I freeze the fudge for later?
Yes, you can! Just cut it into squares and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It’ll stay fresh for around three months—perfect for those chocolate cravings!

What should I serve with this fudge?
You can enjoy it as is, alongside a warm cup of coffee, or even with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful combination. The options are endless!

Can I make this fudge without cream cheese?
While cream cheese adds that creamy texture, you can try using coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative. The fudge will be different but still delicious!

Final Thoughts

Every time I make Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Chocolate Pecan Fudge, it fills my kitchen with laughter and joy. It’s a beautiful reminder that even the busiest days can end on a sweet note. This no-bake recipe is so uncomplicated; it’s like having a secret weapon at my fingertips to impress family and friends. The delight on their faces as they savor each velvety square is simply priceless. So whether it’s a cherished dessert or a quick fix for a sweet tooth, this fudge is bound to bring smiles and satisfy cravings. Trust me, you won’t regret it!