How To Make Fudge, An Easy Recipe

Fudge is one of those treat staples that feels timeless: rich, creamy, and comforting. Its history stretches back centuries, evolving from early sugar syrups and milk bases into the dense squares we know today. While classic fudge often relies on dairy and refined sugars, this version keeps all the indulgence but skips the dairy entirely, sticking with paleo-friendly, gluten-free ingredients. It’s a modern take on an old favorite—pure in flavor, simple in method.

Making fudge usually involves cooking sugars to precise temperatures and stirring over heat. Here, we simplify: raw elements like cacao powder and almond butter melt together with coconut oil and honey, then set in the fridge. You don’t need stovetop candy making or thermometer precision—just a food processor (or strong blender), an hour of chilling, and you’ve got fudge that’s creamy, chocolatey, and perfect for satisfying a sweet craving without compromising your dietary choices.

Below is your easy homemade fudge recipe. Expect rich chocolate fudge with just five ingredients, suitable for paleo, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets. It’s perfect for cutting into shapes, gifting, or just enjoying one square at a time.

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Homemade Fudge that’s Paleo, Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free

Recipe Details

Yield: 4 servings
Active Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes

Recipe Ingredients

• 1/2 cup coconut oil
• 1/2 cup cacao powder
• 1/2 cup almond butter
• 1/4 cup honey (raw, if possible)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Recipe Instructions

1. Line an 8×8-inch square baking tin with parchment paper. Set aside.
2. Place all ingredients (coconut oil, cacao powder, almond butter, honey, vanilla) into the bowl of a food processor. Process until everything combines and the mixture comes together in a smooth mass.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the lined baking tin.
4. Refrigerate for **30 minutes to 1 hour**, until the fudge is firm.
5. Use cookie cutters to cut into desired shapes, or simply slice into squares.
6. Store the fudge in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

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Nutrition Facts for this Fudge Recipe

*Estimated per square (recipe yields 16 squares).

Serving Size	1 fudge square
Calories	≈ 130 kcal
Protein	≈ 1.5 g
Carbs	≈ 10 g
Sugar	≈ 8 g
Fiber	≈ 1 g
Fat	≈ 10 g

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Variations & Tips for Making Homemade Fudge

• More chocolate depth: Use darker chocolate (70%+) or add extra cocoa powder for richer taste.
• Nuts or seeds: Stir in chopped walnuts, pecans, pistachios, or pumpkin seeds for crunch and texture.
• Salted fudge: Top with flaky sea salt before chilling to enhance the sweetness and complexity.
• Fruit twist: Add dried cranberries, cherries, or orange zest to the fudge mixture for a bright contrast.
• Mini sizes: Use a mini-mold or silicone tray to create bite-sized fudge for portion control or gifting.
• Storage tip: Store in a cool, dry place or refrigerate for firm texture; separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

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Ways to Enjoy Your Fudge

• Sea salt or coffee — the bitterness and salt cut through the rich sweetness.
• Nut milks (almond, cashew, oat) — creamy beverage contrast to dense fudge.
• Fresh berries or orange slices — bright, acidic fruit to balance rich chocolate.
• Espresso or dark roast coffee — provides contrast and depth to dessert pairing.
• Vanilla bean ice cream or coconut ice cream — create a decadent fudge-ice cream combo.

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When to Show Off This Fudge Recipe

• Holiday treats & gift boxes — simple, classic fudge to share or gift.
• Potlucks and bake sales — easy to slice and serve, widely loved.
• Birthday dessert tables — add to a dessert spread alongside cookies and cakes.
• After-dinner dessert nights — fast treat that feels luxurious.
• Candy or chocolate tasting events — homemade fudge stands out in chocolate lineups.

Photo credit: Paul Delmont