Indulge in the timeless delight of Old-Fashioned Chocolate Fudge, a rich and creamy treat that brings back nostalgic memories of simpler times. This recipe uses classic ingredients to create a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth fudge that is perfect for holidays, special occasions, or just satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups white sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, sliced and softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pan:
- Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the white sugar and unsweetened cocoa powder. Stir until well mixed.
- Add Milk:
- Pour in the whole milk and stir to combine with the dry ingredients. Make sure there are no lumps.
- Cook the Mixture:
- Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture comes to a boil.
- Boil to Soft-Ball Stage:
- Once boiling, stop stirring and allow the mixture to cook until it reaches the soft-ball stage (about 234-240°F or 112-116°C on a candy thermometer). This should take about 15-20 minutes. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test by dropping a small amount of the mixture into cold water – it should form a soft, pliable ball.
- Add Butter and Vanilla:
- Remove the saucepan from heat and add the softened butter and vanilla extract. Do not stir immediately; let the mixture cool slightly for about 5 minutes.
- Beat the Fudge:
- Using a wooden spoon, beat the fudge mixture until it thickens and loses its gloss. This can take about 5-10 minutes. The fudge is ready when it starts to hold its shape and becomes less shiny.
- Pour into Pan:
- Quickly pour the fudge into the prepared baking pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Cool and Cut:
- Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature until it is firm. Once set, cut it into squares.
Cook Notes:
- Consistency: Beating the fudge is crucial for achieving the right texture. If you beat it too little, it will be too soft; if you beat it too long, it will be crumbly.
- Testing Soft-Ball Stage: If you’re not using a thermometer, periodically drop a small spoonful of the mixture into a bowl of cold water to test the consistency.
- Storage: Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator.
Variations:
- Nutty Fudge: Add 1 cup of chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans) to the fudge mixture before pouring it into the pan.
- Marshmallow Fudge: Fold in 1 cup of mini marshmallows before the mixture sets for a fluffy texture.
- Peppermint Fudge: Add 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract along with the vanilla for a festive twist.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Sweetener Substitute: Replace white sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia.
- Milk Substitute: Use unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk instead of whole milk to reduce carbs.
- Butter Substitute: Use ghee or coconut oil in place of butter for a dairy-free, keto-friendly version.
Old-Fashioned Chocolate Fudge is a delightful treat that’s easy to make and always a hit. Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering, holiday gift, or just for yourself, this classic recipe delivers a rich and satisfying chocolate experience.
FAQs:
- Can I use a different type of milk?
- Yes, you can use any type of milk, but whole milk gives the best creamy texture. For a low-carb version, use unsweetened almond or coconut milk.
- How can I tell if the fudge is at the soft-ball stage without a thermometer?
- Drop a small amount of the mixture into cold water. If it forms a soft, pliable ball that flattens when removed from the water, it’s at the soft-ball stage.
- Why is my fudge grainy?
- Grainy fudge can result from not dissolving the sugar completely before boiling or not beating the mixture long enough after cooking. Ensure the sugar is fully dissolved and beat until the mixture thickens and loses its gloss.
- Can I add flavors or mix-ins to the fudge?
- Absolutely! Try adding nuts, marshmallows, or flavor extracts like peppermint or almond for a fun twist.
- How long does fudge take to set?
- Fudge usually takes about 1-2 hours to set at room temperature. You can speed up the process by refrigerating it for about an hour.
Enjoy creating and sharing this delicious Old-Fashioned Chocolate Fudge. It’s a treat that brings warmth and sweetness to any occasion!
