CHOCOLATE WALNUT FUDGE is my go to treat when I need something sweet that feels a little special but still super doable on a regular day. You know those moments when you want dessert, but you do not want to bake a whole cake or deal with ten different bowls? This is exactly for that. It is rich, chocolatey, and the walnuts give it that cozy crunch that makes you keep sneaking “just one more” piece. I make it for holidays, last minute guests, and honestly, for random Tuesdays when the week needs help. Let me walk you through how I make it in my own kitchen, without stress. 
The Story Behind This Recipe
From my kitchen to yours—CHOCOLATE WALNUT FUDGE mixes everyday ingredients with bright flavor. Tested, tasted, and ready for your table. CHOCOLATE WALNUT FUDGE is my go to treat when I need something sweet that feels a little special but still super doable on a regular day.…
A TASTY FUDGE RECIPE
I love this recipe because it hits that perfect balance between creamy and firm. The chocolate melts into this smooth, dreamy base, and then you get little bites of walnut that make it feel homemade in the best way. I have made CHOCOLATE WALNUT FUDGE when I needed an easy edible gift, and I have also made it when I had a chocolate craving that was not going to wait.
Here is what I think makes it a keeper:
- It is quick, especially compared to baking cookies or brownies.
- It stores well, so you can make it ahead.
- It is flexible, you can adjust the nuts, the salt, and even the chocolate intensity.
If you are the kind of person who loves having a few chocolate desserts in rotation, you might also like my other chocolate obsessions. When I want something creamy and dramatic for a party, I look at this chocolate fudge truffle cheesecake. And if you are in a hurry and want a super straightforward version, this easy chocolate fudge is another good one to keep bookmarked.
I usually use walnuts because they are slightly bitter in a good way, so they cut through the sweetness. Pecans work too, but walnuts are my comfort choice. A small sprinkle of flaky salt on top also makes the chocolate taste deeper, like you bought it from a fancy shop.
“I made this for a family movie night and it disappeared before the opening credits were over. The walnuts made it feel less sugary and more grown up, even the kids loved it.”
HOW TO MAKE CHOCOLATE WALNUT FUDGE
This is the part where you get to feel like a dessert hero with minimal effort. I am going to keep it simple and practical, because that is how I actually cook at home. You do not need a candy thermometer for this version, and you do not need to panic about timing. Just read through once before you start, and you will be totally fine.
Ingredients and what you will need
- 2 cups semi sweet chocolate chips
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (plus a few extra for topping if you want)
- Pinch of salt
What you will need:
- 8×8 pan
- Parchment paper (highly recommended)
- Medium saucepan
- Spatula
Step by step directions
1) Line your pan with parchment paper. I leave a bit hanging over the sides so I can lift the fudge out later. This saves you from the “stuck to the pan” sadness.
2) In a saucepan on low heat, add the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir slowly and keep stirring. Low heat is key because chocolate can scorch if you rush it.
3) Once everything is melted and smooth, turn off the heat. Stir in vanilla, salt, and chopped walnuts.
4) Pour the mixture into your lined pan. Spread it out evenly. If you want it pretty, sprinkle a few walnut pieces on top and gently press them in.
5) Chill in the fridge for about 2 to 3 hours, or until firm. Then lift it out, slice into small squares, and try not to eat half of it while standing at the counter.
My best tips so it turns out right every time
Keep the heat low. This is the biggest difference between silky fudge and grainy fudge.
Do not skip the parchment. It makes cutting and serving so much easier.
Cut small pieces. CHOCOLATE WALNUT FUDGE is rich, so bite size squares feel perfect.
If you are in a mood to play around with variations, I totally get it. Around the holidays I love a fruity version like this white chocolate cranberry fudge. And if you want something with more crunch and candy bar vibes, you have to check out this Butterfinger caramel crunch fudge.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Let us be real, nobody eats fudge because it is a salad. But I still like having a general idea of what I am biting into, especially if I am sharing it at a gathering and someone asks. The exact numbers can change based on the chocolate brand and how big you cut the squares.
Here is a realistic estimate for 1 small square if you cut the pan into 25 pieces:
- Calories: 120 to 160
- Total fat: 7 to 10g
- Saturated fat: 3 to 5g
- Carbohydrates: 14 to 18g
- Sugars: 12 to 16g
- Protein: 2 to 3g
- Sodium: 25 to 50mg
Walnuts add a bit of protein and healthy fats, and they also make the sweetness feel less intense. For me, that means I am satisfied with one or two pieces instead of mindlessly going back for more. Sometimes.
Photos of Chocolate Walnut Fudge
I cannot hand you a piece through the screen, so here is what I look for when I know my CHOCOLATE WALNUT FUDGE turned out right.
In the pan: It should look glossy and thick when you spread it. If it looks oily or separated, it usually means the heat was too high.
After chilling: The top should be firm to the touch, and the parchment should lift cleanly. When you slice it, the knife should go through with a little resistance but not crumble.
Inside texture: Smooth chocolate with walnuts evenly scattered. You want the nuts in every bite, not all sunk to the bottom. If you chop them and fold them in at the very end, that helps.
Quick photo tip if you are taking your own: wipe the knife between cuts, and your squares will look so neat. Also, natural window light makes the chocolate look extra rich.
You’ll Also Love
If you are anything like me, once you make one chocolate treat, your brain starts planning the next one. So here are a few ideas depending on your mood and schedule.
If you want something no bake and snacky, these chocolate peanut butter no bake cookies are a lifesaver. If you want a dessert that feels a little fancy but still fun, try these chocolate covered cherries. And if you want a cute party bite that is great for sharing, I am obsessed with chocolate chip cookie dough brownie bites.
Also, if you ever feel like your dessert table needs something bigger than fudge squares, this chocolate pound cake is the kind of thing people slice “thin” and then go back for another slice anyway.
Common Questions
1) Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi sweet?
Yes, but it will be sweeter and softer. If you use milk chocolate, consider adding an extra pinch of salt and do not cut the pieces too big.
2) How do I keep the walnuts from sinking?
Chop them fairly small and stir them in after the pot is off the heat. The mixture thickens slightly as it cools, and that helps hold the nuts in place.
3) Can I freeze CHOCOLATE WALNUT FUDGE?
Absolutely. Wrap squares tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Let them sit at room temp for 15 to 20 minutes before eating so the texture is creamy again.
4) Why is my fudge grainy?
Most of the time it is from overheating. Keep the heat low and stir gently. Also make sure you are using sweetened condensed milk, not evaporated milk.
5) How long does it last on the counter or in the fridge?
At cool room temp, about 3 to 4 days in a sealed container. In the fridge, about 1 to 2 weeks. I prefer fridge storage so the squares stay neat and firm.
A sweet little wrap up
If you have been looking for a treat that feels homemade without taking over your whole day, CHOCOLATE WALNUT FUDGE is the answer. It is simple, reliable, and honestly kind of addictive in that rich chocolate way. If you want to compare versions or pick up extra tips, I have also enjoyed reading Chocolate Walnut Fudge – The Country Cook and Best Ever Chocolate Walnut Fudge | The Domestic Rebel. Make a batch, stash a few squares for later, and share the rest if you are feeling generous. Then tell me how it went, especially if you added extra walnuts or a little salt on top.
Chocolate Walnut Fudge
Ingredients
Method
- Line your 8×8 pan with parchment paper, letting some hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a saucepan on low heat, combine chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir constantly until melted and smooth.
- Once melted, turn off the heat and stir in vanilla, salt, and chopped walnuts.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly, and top with additional walnut pieces if desired.
- Chill in the fridge for 2 to 3 hours or until firm. Remove from the pan and slice into small squares.
