Prepare to indulge in the ultimate chocolate lover’s delight with our exquisite Chocolate Fudge Recipe. This decadent treat is the perfect combination of rich, creamy chocolate and velvety smoothness, making it an irresistible temptation for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a sweet treat to satisfy your dessert cravings or looking for the perfect homemade gift, this chocolate fudge is sure to impress. Join us as we embark on a culinary journey to discover the secrets of creating this heavenly confection!
Ingredients:
- 24 ounces chocolate (2 bags of chips or 6 4-ounce bars), roughly chopped
- 28 ounces (793.79 ml) sweetened condensed milk (2 cans)
- 1/2 teaspoon (1 teaspoon) kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chocolate:
- Begin by roughly chopping the chocolate into small pieces. This will help it melt evenly when mixed with the other ingredients.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large saucepan, combine the chopped chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, and kosher salt.
- Melt Chocolate:
- Place the saucepan over low heat and stir continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Add Vanilla Extract:
- Once the chocolate is melted, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This will add a delicious hint of vanilla flavor to the fudge.
- Pour into Pan:
- Line a square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Chill:
- Transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill the fudge until it is firm and set, typically for about 2-3 hours.
- Slice and Serve:
- Once the fudge is completely set, use the parchment paper to lift it out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut it into squares or bars.
- Enjoy!
- Serve the chocolate fudge immediately and enjoy its rich, creamy texture and intense chocolate flavor. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Nutty Addition: For added texture and flavor, stir in chopped nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or pecans before pouring the fudge mixture into the pan.
- Flavor Infusion: Experiment with different flavors by adding extracts such as peppermint, almond, or coconut for a unique twist on classic chocolate fudge.
- Creative Toppings: Sprinkle the top of the fudge with sea salt, crushed candy canes, or colorful sprinkles before it sets for a festive touch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate? A: Absolutely! You can use any type of chocolate you prefer, whether it’s dark, milk, or even white chocolate, to customize the flavor of your fudge.
Q: Can I make this fudge ahead of time? A: Yes, this chocolate fudge can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Simply cut it into squares or bars and store them in an airtight container for freshness.
Q: Can I freeze this fudge? A: Yes, this chocolate fudge can be frozen for longer storage. Wrap the individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For Keto Version:
- Substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a keto-friendly alternative, such as a combination of heavy cream and low-carb sweetener.
- Use sugar-free chocolate chips or unsweetened chocolate to reduce the carb content.
For Low-Carb Version:
- Choose a dark chocolate with higher cocoa content and lower sugar content.
- Use a low-carb sweetener in place of sweetened condensed milk.
In conclusion, our Chocolate Fudge Recipe is a celebration of indulgence and decadence, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience that will satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth. With its rich chocolate flavor, creamy texture, and simple preparation, this fudge is a true delight for chocolate lovers everywhere. Whether enjoyed as a special treat for yourself or shared with friends and family, this homemade fudge is guaranteed to bring joy and happiness with every bite. So, gather your ingredients and prepare to be transported to chocolate heaven with this irresistible confection!