Transport yourself to the quaint charm of Mackinac Island with our delicious Mackinac Island Fudge recipe! This beloved confection is a timeless favorite, known for its rich chocolate flavor and smooth, creamy texture. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can recreate this iconic treat in the comfort of your own kitchen. Join us as we explore the ingredients, instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions of this delightful recipe.
Ingredients:
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pan:
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the paper or foil with cooking spray.
- Melt the Butter:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add Milk and Sugars:
- Once the butter is melted, add the milk, granulated white sugar, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
- Bring to a Boil:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. Let it boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Add Vanilla and Cocoa:
- Stir in the vanilla extract and unsweetened cocoa powder until smooth and well incorporated.
- Incorporate Confectioners’ Sugar:
- Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar to the mixture, stirring vigorously until smooth and creamy. The mixture should be thick and glossy.
- Pour into Pan:
- Quickly pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Chill and Set:
- Place the pan in the refrigerator and let the fudge chill for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
- Cut into Squares:
- Once the fudge is firm, use the parchment paper or foil overhang to lift it out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and cut it into squares using a sharp knife.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Mackinac Island Fudge at room temperature and enjoy its rich, chocolaty goodness!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Nuts: For a classic touch, fold in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans before pouring the fudge mixture into the pan.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different flavor extracts such as almond, peppermint, or orange to create unique variations of this classic fudge recipe.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: To make this recipe keto-friendly, replace the granulated white sugar and brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. Use unsweetened almond milk instead of regular milk.
- Low-Carb Version: Follow the keto substitutions mentioned above and ensure that all other ingredients used are low in carbohydrates. Adjust the sweetness level to taste and enjoy in moderation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: How should I store the fudge? A: Store the Mackinac Island Fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.
Q: Can I freeze the fudge? A: Yes, you can freeze the fudge in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Q: Can I customize the texture of the fudge? A: Yes, you can adjust the texture of the fudge by varying the cooking time. For a softer, creamier fudge, cook the mixture for a shorter time. For a firmer, more set fudge, cook it for a longer time.
Treat yourself to a taste of Mackinac Island with our irresistible Mackinac Island Fudge! Whether enjoyed as a sweet indulgence or gifted to friends and family, this classic treat is sure to delight with its rich chocolate flavor and creamy texture. So gather your ingredients and whip up a batch of this iconic fudge today. It’s the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth and bring a little taste of paradise into your home!
