There’s something downright nostalgic and wonderfully rich about a fudge that marries creamy Velveeta and crunchy pecans in one bite. This Velveeta Fudge with Pecans Recipe is quick to whip up, yet feels like a special treat that everyone will ask you to make again.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
This Velveeta Fudge with Pecans Recipe has a special place in my kitchen — it’s a blend of convenience and delight. Using Velveeta in fudge might sound unconventional, but trust me, it creates a velvety smooth texture that melts in your mouth, perfectly balanced with buttery richness and the nutty crunch of pecans.
- Simple Ingredients: Just five ingredients make this fudge approachable and quick to make for any occasion.
- Unique Creamy Texture: Velveeta adds a luscious creaminess that sets this fudge apart.
- Crunchy Pecans: Pecans add a satisfying bite and a rich flavor contrast you won’t want to skip.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in minutes and have it ready after chilling, making it perfect for holidays or last-minute guests.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Every ingredient in this Velveeta Fudge with Pecans Recipe plays an important part in how it turns out — from flavor to texture to ease of preparation. Knowing a bit about why helps you shop smarter and customize if you want to.
- Velveeta: This processed cheese melts smoothly and lends a uniquely creamy richness that chocolate alone can’t deliver.
- Salted Butter: The butter enriches the fudge’s texture and adds a luscious mouthfeel that blends perfectly with Velveeta.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: These provide the classic chocolate flavor, balancing sweetness and depth without overpowering.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla adds warmth and rounds out the chocolate notes beautifully.
- Powdered Sugar: So fine it dissolves quickly, it sweetens and thickens the fudge to the perfect consistency.
- Pecans: Optional but highly recommended — they bring crunch and a nutty flavor contrast that’s irresistible.
Make It Your Way
One of my favorite things about this Velveeta Fudge with Pecans Recipe is how easy it is to tweak to your own taste or dietary needs. Whether you’re nut-allergic or love a bit of extra crunch, it’s a forgiving recipe that welcomes personalization.
- Nut-Free Version: I've made it without the pecans many times for family members with allergies — still just as creamy and delicious.
- Swap the Nuts: Try walnuts or almonds if you want a different nutty touch; they’re all lovely here.
- Chocolate Variations: Mixing dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet adds a richer cocoa flavor that some of my friends swear by.
- Mini Fudge Bites: Pouring into mini silicone molds makes fun bite-sized treats perfect for parties and gift-giving.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Velveeta Fudge with Pecans Recipe
Step 1: Melt Velveeta and Butter Gently
Start by placing diced Velveeta and salted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently to help everything melt evenly without scorching. I learned that stirring often is key here — it keeps the mixture smooth and prevents sticky burnt spots forming on the pan sides.
Step 2: Blend in Chocolate and Vanilla
Once melted, add your semi-sweet chocolate chips next. Keep stirring until the chips are completely melted and fully incorporated with the butter and cheese. Then stir in the vanilla extract for a rich, fragrant depth. I like to lower the heat a little now to avoid overheating and dulling the chocolate’s shine.
Step 3: Mix in Powdered Sugar Slowly
Turn the heat down to low or off, and start adding your powdered sugar a bit at a time—usually in increments of a cup or so. Stir very well between each addition so it incorporates smoothly. This gradual method helps avoid lumps and gives your fudge that perfect thick but creamy texture. You’ll notice it starts to pull together and firm up.
Step 4: Stir in Pecans and Set to Chill
Finally, mix in the chopped pecans thoroughly. Pour the fudge mixture quickly into a prepared pan — I usually line it with parchment for easy removal — then smooth it out evenly. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait that long. The chill sets the fudge into that firm, sliceable consistency we all love.
Top Tip
After making this fudge a handful of times, I’ve found a few tricks that really take it from good to wow. These small touches help ensure your Velveeta Fudge with Pecans Recipe comes out silky and perfectly sweet every time.
- Use Medium Heat for Melting: Rushing the melt on high heat risks burning the cheese or chocolate, which can lead to grainy fudge. I always keep it steady and patient.
- Sift Your Powdered Sugar: If you have lumps in your powdered sugar, sift it first to avoid clumps in the fudge mixture for the smoothest texture imaginable.
- Add Pecans Last: Add them right before pouring the fudge into the pan to keep them crunchy and prevent them from turning soggy.
- Quick Spreading: This fudge sets up fast once off the heat, so spread it evenly in the pan quickly to get smooth sides and top.
How to Serve Velveeta Fudge with Pecans Recipe

Garnishes
I like to sprinkle a few extra chopped pecans or even a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top after spreading the fudge in the pan. It adds a lovely finishing crunch and a hint of contrast to the sweet fudge. Sometimes, a light dusting of cocoa powder gives it a pretty, rustic look too.
Side Dishes
This fudge shines as a standalone treat, but it pairs beautifully with a cup of strong coffee or spiced tea for a comforting afternoon pick-me-up. During holiday parties, I like to set it alongside fruit platters or other nutty desserts for variety.
Creative Ways to Present
One year, I cut the fudge into bite-sized squares and dipped them halfway into melted chocolate before chilling again — the double-chocolate layer was a big hit. For gift giving, wrapping small batches in wax paper tied with ribbon makes for a charming homemade present everyone appreciates.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Velveeta fudge stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge. I usually layer pieces between sheets of parchment to keep them from sticking together. It keeps fresh and tasty for about 1-2 weeks if well wrapped.
Freezing
I’ve successfully frozen this fudge by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, just thaw it overnight in the fridge. The texture stays creamy and the pecans hold their crunch well.
Reheating
Because fudge is best enjoyed chilled, I don’t recommend reheating. But if you like your fudge softer, a few seconds in the microwave on low power does the trick. Just watch it closely so it doesn’t melt too much or get oily.
Frequently Asked Questions:
You can try using reduced-fat Velveeta, but it might affect the fudge’s creaminess and texture, resulting in a firmer product. For the best silky texture, regular full-fat Velveeta is recommended.
Velveeta melts smoothly and adds a unique creamy richness to the fudge that complements the chocolate and butter perfectly. It helps create a luscious, soft texture different from traditional fudge recipes.
Absolutely! Pecans are optional in this recipe. Omitting them will still give you delicious fudge but without the nutty crunch. You can also substitute other nuts if preferred.
The fudge needs to chill for at least 4 hours in the refrigerator to set properly, but overnight chilling gives the best firm, sliceable texture.
Final Thoughts
Making this Velveeta Fudge with Pecans Recipe always feels like a little celebration in my kitchen. It’s such a fun twist on traditional fudge that’s quick, forgiving, and utterly delicious. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do — and find yourself reaching for it again and again for gatherings, gifts, or just a cozy night in.
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Velveeta Fudge with Pecans Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 48 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Velveeta Fudge is a creamy and rich chocolate fudge made with just five simple ingredients. This easy no-bake fudge combines Velveeta cheese and butter for a smooth base, mixed with semi-sweet chocolate chips, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, and optional pecans for crunch. Ready to set in the refrigerator in just 4 hours, this classic nostalgic treat is perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you want a quick homemade dessert.
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 12 ounces Velveeta, diced
- 1 cup salted butter (2 sticks)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Sweetener and Add-ins
- 8 cups powdered sugar (2 pounds)
- 1 ½ cups pecans, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Melt Velveeta and Butter: In a saucepan, add the diced Velveeta and salted butter. Melt them over medium heat while stirring frequently to ensure the mixture melts evenly without burning.
- Add Chocolate and Vanilla: Once the Velveeta and butter have melted, add the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stir continuously until the chocolate chips are fully melted and incorporated into the mixture. Then add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Incorporate Powdered Sugar: Lower the heat to prevent scorching and add the powdered sugar in increments. Mix thoroughly after each addition until all powdered sugar is fully combined into the mixture, creating a smooth fudge base.
- Add Pecans: Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped pecans if using. Mix well to distribute evenly throughout the fudge.
- Pour and Spread: Pour the fudge mixture into a prepared baking dish. Quickly spread it evenly with a spatula before it begins to set.
- Set the Fudge: Place the baking dish in the refrigerator. Allow the fudge to chill and set for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
- Cut and Serve: Once fully set, remove from the refrigerator and cut the fudge into 48 pieces. Serve and enjoy your creamy, decadent Velveeta fudge.
Notes
- Use diced Velveeta for faster and more even melting.
- Stir frequently when melting to prevent burning or sticking.
- Powdered sugar must be added slowly and mixed well to avoid lumps in the fudge.
- For a nut-free version, omit pecans or substitute with other nuts like walnuts or almonds if preferred.
- Use a non-stick or lightly greased baking dish to make removal easier.
- Store leftover fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 140 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 110 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
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