Everyone knows that Christmas is prime dessert season! One of the most indulgent treats out there is good, old-fashioned chocolate fudge. Perfect for your dessert table, bundled as a party favor or beautifully boxed as a luscious Christmas gift, it’s hard to believe that this creamy homemade fudge is made with only three ingredients and baked in the microwave. Even better, you can top it with gooey, salted caramel, mix in your favorite chopped nuts or add crushed candy canes for a hint of peppermint. You won't believe how easy this recipe is to make!

This recipe was provided by Jamielyn Nye, who is a cookbook author and food blogger at I Heart Naptime.  For more easy family-friendly recipes visit IHeartNaptime.net 

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 3 minutes Total Time: 13 minutes

Servings: 32

Ingredients: 

For chocolate fudge:

3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (can also use milk chocolate)

14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk

1/4 cup butter

For caramel layer:

11 ounce package caramel bits 

2 tablespoons heavy cream

add sea salt or maldon (if desired)

Instructions:

1. Line a 8×8′′ baking dish with parchment paper. Lightly butter and set aside. 

Combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk and butter in a large, microwaveable bowl. Microwave for one minute at 50% power. Stir, and then microwave in 30 second increments until the chocolate has melted (about 2 minutes). Be careful not to over cook, or it will become grainy or burnt.

2. Quickly pour into the prepared baking dish and press down with a spatula. Refrigerate until set.

3. To add the caramel layer (make sure the fudge has hardened), microwave the caramel bits and cream in a microwave bowl for 1 minute. Stir and microwave for an additional 30 seconds if needed. Stir until smooth and then pour over the chocolate fudge. Tap the pan on the counter so it evenly distributes. Top with sea salt immediately (if desired).

4. Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve, and then slice into squares. (I find it easiest to cut with a plastic knife).

Variations:

• Fudge with nuts: Mix in 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans immediately after the chocolate has melted.

• Peppermint fudge: Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top immediately after you pour the chocolate in the pan.  

Find full recipe notes and reviews here: https://www.iheartnaptime.net/microwave-fudge/

Also for more simple recipes that are great for busy families that can be made in under an hour, check out the I Heart Naptime Cookbook!