Description
This Old Fashioned Chocolate Fudge recipe offers a rich, creamy, and classic treat made from simple ingredients like sugar, cocoa, milk, butter, and vanilla. Slow-cooked to perfection and beaten to a smooth finish, this decadent fudge makes for a perfect sweet indulgence that can be enjoyed fresh or stored for weeks.
Ingredients
Fudge Ingredients
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup unsweetened Dutch-processed cocoa powder
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup butter (salted, room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8-inch square pan with buttered parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the fudge once set.
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Add the whole milk and stir thoroughly with a wooden spoon, avoiding metal spoons or whisks to preserve texture.
- Initial Cooking: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously until the mixture comes to a strong boil, which should take about 15 minutes.
- Continue Cooking: Reduce heat to medium-low and cook without stirring until the temperature reaches 234°F (112°C), approximately 30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect fudge consistency.
- Add Flavor: Remove the pot from heat, then add the softened butter and vanilla extract. Do not stir immediately; allow the mixture to cool down to around 110°F (43°C), which will take about 30 minutes.
- Beat the Fudge: Once cooled, beat the mixture with a wooden spoon until it begins to lose its glossy appearance, roughly 6-8 minutes. This step aerates the fudge and helps it set correctly.
- Set the Fudge: Quickly spread the fudge evenly into the prepared pan. Let it cool completely at room temperature, ideally overnight, to allow it to firm up fully.
- Store and Serve: Cut the fudge into squares. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or refrigerate for 3-4 weeks. For longer storage, freeze well-wrapped in double bags for up to 3 months.
Notes
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent burning.
- Do not use a whisk or metal spoon when stirring to maintain the right texture.
- Temperature accuracy is key; use a candy thermometer to monitor the fudge mixture.
- Beating the fudge after cooling ensures proper crystallization for a smooth texture.
- Fudge keeps best stored in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
- Frozen fudge should be thawed gradually at room temperature before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
