Description
Enjoy the delightful taste of homemade old-fashioned fudge, featuring a perfect blend of chocolate and sweetness. This creamy treat can be customized with crunchy nuts for added texture, making it ideal for sharing or indulging on your own!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional, walnuts or pecans recommended)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Gather Your Ingredients: Lay out all your ingredients on the counter for easy access.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized saucepan, mix together the granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
- Add Milk and Butter: Pour in the whole milk and add the unsalted butter, cutting the butter into smaller pieces for quicker melting.
- Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
- Bring to a Boil: Once bubbling, continue stirring until it reaches a full rolling boil (about 5-7 minutes).
- Cook to Soft Ball Stage: Let it cook without stirring for 4-5 minutes until it reaches the soft ball stage (234°F or 112°C).
- Remove from Heat: Carefully take the saucepan off the heat.
- Add Vanilla and Nuts: Stir in the vanilla extract and optional chopped nuts.
- Beat the Mixture: Beat the fudge mixture vigorously with a wooden spoon for 5-10 minutes until it thickens and loses its glossy sheen.
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly with butter.
- Pour into the Pan: Pour the thickened fudge into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- Let it Set: Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for 2-3 hours, or refrigerate to speed up the process.
- Cut the Fudge: Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan and cut it into squares.
- Store the Fudge: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for a week, in the refrigerator for two weeks, or freeze for up to three months.
- Enjoy: Savor your delicious homemade fudge!
Notes
- For a smoother fudge, omit the nuts.
- Ensure to beat the fudge until it thickens for the best texture.
- Use a candy thermometer for precise cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes