How to Make 4-Ingredient Chocolate Fudge

Step 1 - Prepare the pan: Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and leave some paper hanging over the sides. This gives you handles later, which makes it easy to lift the fudge out in one piece once it is fully set.

Step 2 - Melt gently: Add the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter to a medium saucepan. Warm everything over low heat, stirring constantly until the mixture becomes smooth and completely melted. Keep the heat low so the chocolate does not scorch.

Step 3 - Add the vanilla: Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Vanilla does not change the structure of the fudge, but it deepens the chocolate flavor and makes the final taste feel fuller and more balanced.

Step 4 - Pour and spread: Transfer the warm mixture to the prepared pan and spread it into an even layer. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to release air bubbles and smooth the top.

Step 5 - Chill until firm: Refrigerate the fudge until it is completely set. Once it feels firm to the touch, lift it from the pan using the parchment, place it on a cutting board, and slice it into squares with a sharp knife.