Rich, velvety, and incredibly easy to make, this hot fudge sauce with sweetened condensed milk is a must-have for dessert lovers. Whether you’re drizzling it over ice cream, brownies, or pancakes, this sauce elevates any sweet treat to indulgent perfection. With simple ingredients and just a few minutes of preparation, it’s the ultimate homemade topping.
What Is Hot Fudge Sauce?
Hot fudge sauce is a thick, chocolatey topping perfect for desserts. Made with sweetened condensed milk, butter, chocolate, and cocoa, this recipe results in a silky texture and deep chocolate flavor. The addition of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt enhances its richness, making it irresistible for chocolate lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes.
- Versatile: Perfect for ice cream, cakes, pancakes, and more.
- Rich and Creamy: The sweetened condensed milk ensures a silky smooth texture.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Ingredients
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter
- ½ cup (85 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ¼ cup (20 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Combine the Base Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, add the sweetened condensed milk, unsalted butter, and semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Set the saucepan over low heat to prevent burning.
- Stir continuously until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
2. Add Cocoa Powder and Salt
- Whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder until fully dissolved.
- Add a pinch of salt to enhance the chocolate flavor.
3. Finish with Vanilla Extract
- Remove the saucepan from heat.
- Stir in the vanilla extract for a fragrant, sweet finish.
4. Cool and Store
- Let the hot fudge sauce cool slightly.
- Pour into a clean jar or container.
Serving Suggestions
- Drizzle over vanilla ice cream or a sundae.
- Use as a topping for brownies, pancakes, or waffles.
- Swirl into a glass of warm milk for an instant hot chocolate.
- Dip fresh fruits like strawberries or bananas for a decadent treat.
Storing and Freezing
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring each time, or warm gently on the stove.
Freezing Instructions
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Recipe Variations
- Dairy-Free Version: Substitute sweetened condensed coconut milk and vegan butter.
- Dark Chocolate Lovers: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet.
- Peppermint Twist: Add a few drops of peppermint extract for a festive flavor.
- Spicy Chocolate: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a subtle kick.
FAQs
1. Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, but the sauce will be sweeter and less intensely chocolatey. Adjust to taste.
2. How can I thin out the sauce if it’s too thick?
Add a splash of milk or cream while reheating to reach your desired consistency.
3. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure you use a larger saucepan and stir continuously to avoid burning.
This hot fudge sauce with sweetened condensed milk is the perfect homemade indulgence to elevate any dessert. Simple, versatile, and absolutely delicious, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Try it today and enjoy the rich, chocolatey goodness!
PrintHot Fudge Sauce with Sweetened Condensed Milk
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: About 1½ cups
Description
This rich and creamy hot fudge sauce is a simple yet decadent dessert topping made with sweetened condensed milk, butter, and chocolate. Perfect for drizzling over ice cream, brownies, or pancakes, it’s quick to prepare and stores well for later use.
Ingredients
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter
- ½ cup (85 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ¼ cup (20 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Combine Base Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, butter, and chocolate chips. Stir constantly until melted and smooth.
- Incorporate Cocoa Powder and Salt: Whisk in cocoa powder and a pinch of salt until fully dissolved.
- Finish with Vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Cool and Store: Let cool slightly before transferring to a jar or container.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
- Add a splash of milk or cream if the sauce thickens too much during storage.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert Topping
- Method: Stove
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: Approximately 120 per serving