Description
This Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Hot Fudge is a rich, glossy chocolate sauce made with pantry staples and almost no effort. Melted low and slow in the crockpot, it turns into a smooth, pourable fudge sauce that transforms ordinary ice cream into a bakery-style dessert. With deep chocolate flavor and a silky texture, this recipe delivers classic homemade hot fudge without standing over the stove.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This hot fudge recipe is perfect for:
- Busy home cooks who want easy dessert sauces
- Chocolate lovers craving rich, old-fashioned flavor
- Families looking for nostalgic treats
- Holiday gift-givers making homemade edible gifts
- Anyone who loves slow cooker desserts
Why It’s Great
- Uses only 4 simple ingredients
- No stovetop stirring or double boiler
- Foolproof slow cooker method
- Perfect texture every time
- Easily doubled for parties or gifts
- Stores beautifully for later use
Ingredients
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cubed
- ½ cup heavy cream
Optional additions (after cooking): a pinch of salt or a splash of vanilla extract
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Small slow cooker (2–4 quart)
- Silicone spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Heat-safe jars or containers
How to Make Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Hot Fudge
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker
Lightly coat the inside of a small slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Add Ingredients
Place chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, cubed butter, and heavy cream directly into the slow cooker.
3. Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on LOW for 1½ to 2 hours. During the last hour, stir every 20–30 minutes, scraping the sides and bottom to ensure even melting.
4. Finish the Sauce
Once the mixture is completely smooth, thick, and glossy, switch the slow cooker to WARM. Stir well. Taste and optionally add a pinch of salt or vanilla.
5. Cool and Store
Carefully pour the hot fudge into clean, heat-safe jars or containers. Let cool uncovered until thickened, then seal and refrigerate.
Storage
- Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 2 weeks
- Reheat gently in the microwave in 15–20 second bursts, stirring between intervals
- Can also be warmed by placing the jar in a bowl of warm water
- Not recommended for freezing (texture may change)
FAQ
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, but the sauce will be sweeter and less intense. Semi-sweet provides the best balance.
Why use a slow cooker instead of the stove?
The slow cooker prevents scorching and allows gentle, even melting with minimal supervision.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just use a larger slow cooker and stir more frequently.
Is this fudge thick or pourable?
Warm, it’s pourable. Chilled, it thickens into a spoonable fudge sauce.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Hot Fudge is proof that the best recipes are often the simplest. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it delivers a rich, nostalgic chocolate sauce that feels special every time you serve it. Whether drizzled over ice cream, brownies, or fruit, this homemade hot fudge turns everyday desserts into something unforgettable.
