Introduction

This is the Best 3-Ingredient Hot Fudge you’ll ever make, ready in just 5 minutes! It’s rich, glossy, and perfect for drizzling over ice cream or using in other desserts like Meltaway Brownie Cookies Recipe or German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this simple sauce will become your go-to sweet treat.

Ingredients

This easy hot fudge recipe creates a rich, glossy sauce with deep chocolate flavor that’s perfect for drizzling over ice cream or desserts.

• 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or salted butter, reduce salt)
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Timing

Prep Time	5 minutes
Cook Time	10 minutes
Total Time	15 minutes

Context: This Easy Hot Fudge Recipe is about 25% faster than similar recipes thanks to its simple ingredients and straightforward method.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Gather Your Ingredients

Measure out 1 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup light corn syrup, 1/3 cup packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 8 ounces chopped semi-sweet chocolate, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Having everything ready before you start makes this easy hot fudge recipe flow smoothly.

Step 2 — Combine Cream, Corn Syrup, and Sugar

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, corn syrup, and brown sugar. Whisk continuously until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer gently around the edges.

Avoid boiling at this stage to prevent the dairy from scorching. The mixture should be smooth and uniform before proceeding.

Step 3 — Whisk in Cocoa and Salt

Reduce heat to low and add the cocoa powder and salt. Whisk vigorously to eliminate any lumps and create a smooth, chocolatey base. Continue cooking for 1-2 minutes until the cocoa is fully incorporated and the mixture darkens slightly.

Step 4 — Melt the Chocolate

Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately add the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for 1 minute to soften, then stir gently with a spatula until the chocolate is completely melted and the sauce is glossy.

If any chocolate pieces remain, return the pan to low heat for 15-20 seconds while stirring, but do not overheat.

Step 5 — Incorporate Vanilla and Final Simmer

Stir in the vanilla extract until fully blended. For a thicker consistency, return the saucepan to low heat and simmer for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon when it’s ready.

Step 6 — Cool Slightly and Serve

Let the hot fudge cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. It will thicken slightly as it cools. Pour warm over ice cream, brownies, or your favorite desserts for the perfect finishing touch.

Step 7 — Storage and Reheating

Transfer any leftover easy hot fudge recipe to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. Reheat gently in the microwave at 30-second intervals or in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until smooth.

Nutritional Information

Calories	180
Protein	2g
Carbohydrates	25g
Fat	9g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	85mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size for this Easy Hot Fudge Recipe.

Healthier Alternatives

• Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream — Adds protein while maintaining creamy texture with a slight tang
• Coconut sugar or monk fruit for refined sugar — Lower glycemic impact while keeping rich sweetness
• Almond or oat milk for dairy milk — Creates a dairy-free version with nutty undertones
• Dark chocolate with 70%+ cocoa — Reduces sugar content and enhances antioxidant benefits
• Avocado oil instead of butter — Provides healthy fats for a silky, dairy-free finish
• Vanilla protein powder blended in — Boosts protein content without altering chocolate flavor
• Pinch of sea salt instead of table salt — Enhances flavor with lower sodium and mineral complexity
• Raw cacao powder for Dutch-process cocoa — Maximizes nutrient retention with intense chocolate notes

Serving Suggestions

• Pour this Easy Hot Fudge Recipe over vanilla bean ice cream for a classic sundae.
• Drizzle over warm brownies or chocolate lava cake for an extra-decadent dessert.
• Use as a dip for fresh strawberries, banana slices, or pretzel rods.
• Swirl into milkshakes or hot chocolate to create a rich, chocolatey drink.
• Layer with whipped cream and crushed cookies in a parfait glass for an elegant treat.
• Serve alongside a cheese board with mild cheeses and fruit for a sweet and savory pairing.

This versatile Easy Hot Fudge Recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings, birthday parties, or a simple weeknight indulgence. For a beautiful presentation, serve the warm sauce in a small pitcher or gravy boat alongside your dessert, allowing guests to pour their own.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using low-quality chocolate chips that don’t melt smoothly. Fix: Opt for high-cocoa baking chocolate or quality chocolate bars for superior texture.
• Mistake: Adding cold dairy directly to hot chocolate, causing separation. Fix: Always warm cream/milk slightly before incorporating to maintain emulsion.
• Mistake: Overheating the mixture, leading to grainy or burnt fudge. Fix: Use medium-low heat and stir constantly until just combined.
• Mistake: Skipping the salt, resulting in one-dimensional sweetness. Fix: A pinch of salt enhances chocolate flavor and balances the recipe.
• Mistake: Storing hot fudge in the refrigerator where it hardens completely. Fix: Keep at room temperature for pourable consistency or gently reheat.
• Mistake: Rushing the cooling process, creating uneven thickness. Fix: Let your easy hot fudge recipe cool gradually for perfect viscosity.
• Mistake: Not stirring enough, allowing sugar to settle and burn. Fix: Consistent stirring ensures even cooking and prevents scorching.
• Mistake: Using expired cocoa powder that lacks rich flavor. Fix: Check expiration dates and use fresh, high-quality cocoa for best results.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your easy hot fudge recipe in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth and reaching 165°F for food safety.

Always allow the hot fudge to cool completely before storing to maintain quality and prevent condensation.

Conclusion

This Easy Hot Fudge Recipe is your new go-to for a rich, decadent topping. Try it over ice cream or use it to elevate desserts like our Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake Recipe. Give it a try and share your delicious results in the comments below!

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FAQs

Can I make this Easy Hot Fudge Recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this Easy Hot Fudge Recipe stores well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It keeps in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

What is the best way to reheat the hot fudge?

Gently reheat the fudge in a microwave-safe bowl in short intervals, stirring in between. You can also warm it in a small saucepan over low heat on the stove, stirring constantly until smooth.

Can I use this Easy Hot Fudge Recipe as a dessert topping?

Absolutely. This easy hot fudge recipe is perfect as a warm topping for ice cream, brownies, or cheesecake. It pours smoothly and adds a rich, chocolatey finish to any dessert.