Equipment Needed
- Medium microwave-safe bowl (for flour)
- Large mixing bowl & electric hand mixer
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk and rubber spatula
- 8×8 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
We start with the most important safety step: heat-treating the flour. In your microwave-safe bowl, spread the 1 cup of all-purpose flour in an even layer. Microwave it on high for 60-90 seconds, stopping to stir every 30 seconds, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, just ensure it’s steaming hot all the way through. I learned the hard way that skipping this step isn’t worth the risk, even for a cooked fudge base. This process kills any potential bacteria and also gives the flour a slightly toasted, nutty flavor that’s actually delicious. Let it cool completely before using.
Now, let’s make the dreamy cookie dough. In your large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes. You want it light and fluffy. Beat in the milk and vanilla extract. Gradually add the cooled, heat-treated flour and the ¼ teaspoon salt, mixing on low until just combined. The dough will be soft and perfect. Finally, fold in the ½ cup of mini chocolate chips with a spatula. Set this glorious bowl of safe-to-eat dough aside while we make the fudge foundation.
Time for the rich, velvety fudge base. In your medium saucepan, combine the 3 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips, the entire can of sweetened condensed milk, and the 2 tablespoons of butter. Place it over the lowest possible heat. Stir constantly and patiently with a spatula until everything is melted, smooth, and glossy. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Do not let it boil or simmer—low and slow is the key. Once smooth, remove it from the heat and stir in the teaspoon of vanilla and a tiny pinch of salt. You’ll have a pot of the most luxurious, silky chocolate mixture imaginable.(See the next page below to continue…)