Hot fudge is the perfect topping for ice cream sundaes and other desserts. It only calls for two ingredients, and it's technically not hot fudge. But, I think it tastes even better! This easy hot fudge recipe makes a rich, delicious sauce that's ready in minutes!
This recipe doesn't call for any unsalted butter, light corn syrup, unsweetened cocoa powder, or condensed milk. But it still tastes just like old-fashioned fudge sauce!
Hot Fudge Ingredients
You'll only need two ingredients for this no-frills, easy "hot fudge" sauce.
- A giant Hershey's milk chocolate bar (you can also use bittersweet chocolate or unsweetened chocolate)
- ¼ cup heavy cream
Recipe Tips
- This simple recipe uses just tw ingredients: a big Hershey's milk chocolate bar and heavy cream. You can use any kind of chocolate you like, but I really prefer Hershey's because it's easy to find at any store. If your chocolate doesn't have enough cocoa, it won't be as thick or creamy when melted.
- If you want to make a double batch of hot fudge, simply melt more chocolate bars and add more cream. Basically, double the recipe. For best results, let the chocolate and cream melt together on low heat. Do not increase the temperature to medium heat. The highest you should heat this mixture is on medium-low heat.
- If you don't have a candy thermometer, you can tell if the mixture is done by tasting it. When it reaches about 160 degrees, it should taste sweet and smooth. If it's too warm, it will taste grainy.
- Use a large pot with high sides. The bottom of the bowl shouldn't touch the bottom of the pot.
- Stir constantly while melting so that the chocolate doesn't burn.
- You can skip the double boiler method and just use a medium saucepan instead. Just be extra careful and keep an eye on the mixture. It's easier to burn this way!
- I sometimes add a teaspoon vanilla extract or a teaspoon salt.
- In a pinch, you can use chocolate chips.
What I Love About Homemade Hot Fudge Sauce
I love this hot fudge sauce recipe because it's so easy! Who knew 5-minute hot fudge could taste so delicious? And, I love that I don't need to use a bunch of ingredients.
What You'll Need
- A candy thermometer
- Heavy whipping cream
- Chocolate bars
- Measuring cups
- Rubber spatula
- Medium-sized pot
- Medium-sized mixing bowl
PARTY IDEA: An Ice Cream Sundae Bar
- Make an ice cream sundae bar using different flavors of cold ice cream, caramel sauce, strawberry syrup, whipped cream, and hot fudge.
- Put out little bowls filled with sprinkles, fresh strawberries, bananas, nuts, marshmallows, and red cherries. Some people like to top their sundaes with a sprinkle of brown sugar or granulated sugar, so have those options available, too!
- Make sure to have a couple of options for any dairy-free guests. I LOVE Oatly's vegan ice cream, but there are tons of vegan options available at most grocery stores.
Common Questions
How to Store Hot Fudge Sauce
Store any leftover hot fudge sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 2 weeks.
Can I Use Other Chocolate?
Yes, you can use any type of chocolate you like. Just remember that darker chocolates tend to melt faster than lighter ones. So, if you're combining chocolates, start with dark chocolate first. Then, once it melts, add the light chocolate.
How Much Heavy Cream Should I Use?
I recommend ¼ cup heavy cream. This gives the sauce a nice consistency.
Do I Need To Use Corn Syrup?
Not in this recipe!
Are There Any Substitutes for Heavy Cream?
Yes, you can use dairy, almond, soy, or oat milk instead of heavy cream. Almond milk has a slightly nutty flavor, which works well here.
What else can I do with this?
You can use hot fudge on cakes, cookies, a chocolate milkshake, or stir it into some frosting. Or, make homemade chocolate milk or hot chocolate! This would also be wonderful in chocolate cake, chocolate cheesecake pie, chocolate chip cookie dough, and other chocolate desserts.
Easy "Hot Fudge" Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 king-size milk chocolate Hershey bar
- ¼ cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Chop the chocolate in large chunks.
- Put the chocolate into a medium-sized mixing bowl set over a pot filled with simmering water. Stir until all the pieces are melted and smooth.
- Add Cream
- When the chocolate has completely melted, remove from the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let sit for 2-3 minutes.
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