Old-Fashioned Homemade Hot Fudge Sauce

There’s something timeless about hot fudge sauce. Just one spoonful can transport you back to cozy Sunday afternoons, perched at your grandmother’s kitchen table, watching her stir a bubbling pot of chocolatey magic on the stove. That’s where my love for this old-fashioned hot fudge recipe began.

Inspired by my Nonna’s traditional dessert sauce, this homemade hot fudge is rich, glossy, and deeply chocolatey — exactly what you want drizzled over a scoop of vanilla ice cream or tucked into a late-night sundae. And the best part? You don’t need fancy ingredients or culinary training. Just a handful of pantry staples and about 10 minutes of your time.

This easy hot fudge sauce recipe brings old-school flavor into the modern kitchen — and it’s even customizable for dairy-free or vegan versions!

Why You’ll Love This Hot Fudge Recipe

• Thick and glossy – Not runny like chocolate syrup, this sauce clings beautifully to ice cream.
• Quick to make – Ready in under 10 minutes.
• Pantry-friendly – Uses basic ingredients like cocoa powder and chocolate.
• Versatile – Perfect for sundaes, brownies, pancakes, or dipping fruit.
• Adaptable – Easily make it a vegan hot fudge sauce or microwave it for convenience.

Whether you’re making dessert for guests or treating yourself, this 3 ingredient hot fudge (plus a few optional goodies) is a classic worth mastering.

Ingredients

Here’s What You’ll Need:

• 1 cup heavy cream (240ml)
• ½ cup granulated sugar (100g)
• ¼ teaspoon salt (optional, but balances sweetness)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (113g)
• 6 oz semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped (170g)
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (20g) — Use natural cocoa for a deeper chocolate flavor
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Want to make it dairy-free? Use coconut cream and vegan butter. For chocolate, go with a dairy-free brand like Enjoy Life.

Instructions

Step-by-Step Guide to Hot Fudge Heaven

1. Combine and Simmer

In a small saucepan, add the cream, sugar, salt, and butter. Set over medium heat, stirring frequently until the butter is melted and the mixture starts to simmer.

2. Melt the Chocolate

Once simmering, lower the heat to medium-low. Add the chopped chocolate, stirring gently until it’s completely melted and smooth.

3. Whisk in Cocoa & Vanilla

Remove the pot from the heat. Whisk in the cocoa powder and vanilla extract until the sauce is silky and lump-free.

4. Final Gloss

Return to low heat for just 30 seconds, whisking continuously. This extra step gives the sauce its signature glossy finish.

5. Store or Serve

Pour into a clean glass jar and let it cool. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Reheat in a small saucepan over low heat before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Over classic vanilla ice cream (hello, sundae night!)
• Drizzled on warm brownies
• As a dip for strawberries or marshmallows
• Swirled into a milkshake
• Poured over pancakes or waffles

Hot tip: Add a pinch of espresso powder to the mix for a mocha twist.

Recipe Variations

Vegan Hot Fudge Sauce

• Swap heavy cream for full-fat coconut cream
• Use vegan butter
• Choose dairy-free chocolate

Microwave Hot Fudge Recipe

• Combine all ingredients (except vanilla) in a microwave-safe bowl
• Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, until smooth
• Add vanilla at the end

3 Ingredient Hot Fudge

• Skip the butter and cocoa powder for a super-simple version:
  • 1 cup cream
  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • 1 tsp vanilla

When I want a quick treat, I make chocolate-covered strawberries and drizzle them with this hot fudge — it’s easy, elegant, and perfect for last-minute dessert cravings.

Storage Tips

• Fridge: Store in an airtight jar for up to 2 weeks
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months in small containers
• Reheat: Gently warm on the stovetop or microwave in short intervals

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

This old fashioned hot fudge recipe is my go-to chocolate sauce — and I hope it becomes yours too. Whether you’re topping a scoop of ice cream or surprising guests with a show-stopping dessert, this sauce never fails to impress.