Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Hot Fudge

 

Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Hot Fudge

This Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Hot Fudge is the kind of nostalgic dessert recipe that feels like it belongs on a handwritten index card tucked inside Grandma’s recipe box. Rich, glossy, and unbelievably smooth, this homemade hot fudge sauce transforms any simple bowl of ice cream into a special treat.

In many families, hot fudge is more than just a topping — it’s a tradition. Whether served during holiday dessert trays, weekend ice cream nights, or comforting moments after a long day, this slow cooker version keeps things incredibly easy while delivering bakery-quality flavor and texture.

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. With just four ingredients and a slow cooker doing most of the work, you’ll end up with a decadent chocolate sauce that tastes like it simmered for hours on the stovetop.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Only four simple pantry ingredients
• Hands-off slow cooker preparation
• Perfect make-ahead dessert topping
• Freezer and fridge friendly
• Silky, rich, and intensely chocolatey

Ingredients

• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

Directions

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker

Lightly spray the inside of a small slow cooker (2–4 quart size) with nonstick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

2. Combine Ingredients

Add the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, cubed butter, and heavy cream directly into the slow cooker.

3. Slow Cook

Cover and cook on LOW for 1 1/2 to 2 hours. During the final hour, stir every 20–30 minutes, scraping the sides and bottom to ensure even melting and prevent scorching.

4. Check Consistency

Once the mixture becomes smooth, glossy, and thick, switch the slow cooker to the WARM setting. Stir thoroughly until silky.

5. Optional Flavor Boost

If desired, stir in a pinch of salt or a splash of vanilla extract for extra depth of flavor.

6. Jar the Fudge

Carefully ladle the hot fudge into clean heat-safe mason jars placed on a towel. Leave headspace at the top and wipe any drips from the rims.

7. Cool & Store

Allow jars to cool uncovered until slightly thickened and glossy. Seal with lids and refrigerate.

Serving Suggestions

• Drizzle over ice cream sundaes
• Use as brownie topping
• Serve with waffles or pancakes
• Dip fresh strawberries or bananas
• Layer into milkshakes

Storage Tips

Refrigerate in airtight jars for up to 2 weeks. The fudge will thicken when chilled.

Reheating

• Microwave in 15–20 second bursts, stirring between intervals
• Place jar in warm water until pourable

Helpful Tips for Perfect Hot Fudge

• Use high-quality chocolate chips for richer flavor
• Stir regularly during cooking to avoid scorching
• Add extra cream if sauce becomes too thick
• Use a silicone spatula to scrape edges cleanly

Variations

• Add espresso powder for mocha flavor
• Stir in peanut butter for chocolate peanut butter fudge
• Mix chopped nuts for texture
• Add caramel swirl for layered dessert sauce

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use milk chocolate?

Yes, but the sauce will be sweeter and less intense in flavor.

Can I freeze hot fudge?

Yes, freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.

Why is my fudge grainy?

This can happen if overheated. Stir gently and cook on LOW heat.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Hot Fudge is a simple yet luxurious dessert staple that belongs in every recipe collection. Whether you’re preparing holiday gift jars, elevating weeknight desserts, or creating nostalgic ice cream sundaes, this foolproof recipe delivers rich chocolate indulgence with minimal effort.