Chocolate Pistachio Fudge

Name: Chocolate Pistachio Fudge
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 16
Ingredients: 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Pistachio Fudge, especially during the holiday season. The irresistible combination of rich chocolate and crunchy pistachios creates a delightful treat that’s hard to resist. I often find myself snacking on it or giving it as gifts to friends and family. The best part is how simple it is to prepare, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of patience, I can whip up this indulgent dessert in no time.

Created by

Anya Coleman

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:19:11.137Z

I remember the first time I made this Chocolate Pistachio Fudge. I had a craving for something sweet, and I wanted to make something special for my family. I experimented with different nuts before settling on pistachios, and the result was phenomenal! The added crunch complements the gooey chocolate perfectly.

When preparing this fudge, I like to gently fold in the pistachios rather than stir vigorously. This technique helps maintain their shape and prevents them from breaking down too much. Trust me, the visual appeal and texture are significantly enhanced when you take this extra care!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent chocolate flavor with a nutty crunch
Easy to make with minimal ingredients
Perfect for gifting or enjoy at gatherings

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this Chocolate Pistachio Fudge is, of course, the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Their rich flavor is essential, and quality matters here. Opting for a high-quality brand will yield a smoother, creamier fudge. If you prefer, you can substitute with dark chocolate for a more intense flavor or even white chocolate for a sweeter treat. Just be mindful that different chocolates may slightly alter the melting time and final texture.

Sweetened condensed milk plays a crucial role in achieving the fudge's smooth, creamy consistency. It acts as a binding agent, helping to meld the chocolate and nuts together. Be sure to use the canned version as the sugar content and moisture level can't be matched by regular milk or cream. For a dairy-free version, look for sweetened condensed coconut milk in specialty stores, which will lend an exotic twist to the flavor.

Perfecting the Technique

When melting the chocolate, it's essential to work over low heat to prevent burning. Stir continuously to ensure even melting; this not only keeps the texture silky but also encourages uniform incorporation. If you notice the chocolate starting to seize or harden, lowering the heat immediately can help salvage it. If needed, adding a small splash of milk can also help restore its creamy state.

The refrigeration step is critical for achieving the right firmness for cutting. I recommend letting the fudge chill for at least two hours, but if you're short on time, it can set in as little as one hour. Keep it covered to prevent odors from seeping in while it cools. If your fudge isn’t setting properly, it could be due to insufficient refrigeration or a short melting time; it should be glossy and fully blended before cooling.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make the perfect Chocolate Pistachio Fudge:

Ingredients

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure all your ingredients are measured and ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your fudge:

Melt the Chocolate

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and salt. Stir continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.

Add Vanilla and Nuts

Once melted, remove the mixture from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Gently fold in the chopped pistachios until evenly distributed.

Pour and Set

Pour the chocolate mixture into a greased or lined 8x8-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly and smooth the top with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.

Cut and Serve

Once set, remove the fudge from the dish and cut it into squares. Serve and enjoy!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle melted white chocolate over the top of the fudge before chilling.

Serving and Storage

Storing your Chocolate Pistachio Fudge properly is key to keeping it fresh. I like to keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week; however, you can refrigerate it if you prefer a firmer texture. If you decide to freeze it, slice it into squares first and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe container. This way, you can enjoy a piece whenever you crave something sweet!

When serving, consider garnishing with additional chopped pistachios or a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the flavors. You can also drizzle some melted chocolate over the top for a decorative touch. Pairing the fudge with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk can contrast beautifully with its rich texture and flavor.

Variations and Customizations

There’s room for creativity with this fudge! Adding a swirl of peanut butter or almond butter to the top before it sets can introduce an irresistible flavor contrast. For a fruity twist, try folding in dried cranberries or cherries along with the pistachios for added texture and color. If you’re looking for something a bit different, mixing in a pinch of sea salt can elevate the sweetness and intensify the chocolate flavor.

Adjusting this recipe for dietary needs is also simple. For those looking to reduce sugar, dark chocolate with a higher cocoa content can offer a satisfying taste without all the sweetness. Additionally, feel free to swap out pistachios for other nuts like almonds or walnuts, or even for seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds to accommodate nut allergies.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate! Keep in mind the fudge will be sweeter.

→ How do I store leftover fudge?

Store leftover fudge in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.

→ Can I add other nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts for variation.

→ Is there a way to make it vegan?

Yes, use dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut condensed milk as a substitute.