Mamie Eisenhower’s Fudge is a nostalgic treat that has been delighting taste buds for decades. This rich, creamy fudge is a testament to the simple pleasures of homemade sweets, combining milk chocolate, semisweet chocolate chips, and marshmallow creme for a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Named after Mamie Eisenhower, the former First Lady of the United States, this fudge recipe has become a classic favorite for family gatherings, holidays, and special occasions. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious confection at home.
Ingredients
- 9 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 3 milk chocolate candy bars (15.5 oz total), broken into pieces
- 4 cups (23 oz) semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 (7 oz) jar marshmallow creme
- 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
- 2½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Prepare Your Baking Pan:
- Start by preparing your baking pan. Line a 9×13-inch pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Make sure to leave an overhang of about 1-2 inches on the sides. This will help you lift the fudge out of the pan easily once it’s set. Lightly grease the foil or paper with non-stick spray to ensure the fudge doesn’t stick.
- Melt the Chocolates and Butter:
- In a large saucepan, melt 5 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir the butter frequently to prevent it from browning. Once the butter is melted, add the milk chocolate pieces to the saucepan. Continue to stir until the milk chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Next, add the semisweet chocolate chips to the melted milk chocolate. Keep stirring until the chips are fully melted and the mixture is smooth and well combined. This step is crucial for achieving a silky texture in your fudge.
- Combine the Remaining Ingredients:
- While the chocolate mixture is melting, take a medium-sized bowl and combine the remaining 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, marshmallow creme, evaporated milk, and granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture is smooth and the sugar is evenly distributed.
- Cook the Mixture:
- Pour the mixture from the bowl into the saucepan with the melted chocolate. Stir everything together until well combined. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. It’s important to keep stirring to prevent the fudge from burning and to ensure an even consistency.
- Once the mixture starts boiling, reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, continuing to stir constantly. This step helps the fudge to set properly and develop its rich texture.
- Add Walnuts:
- After the fudge has simmered, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the chopped walnuts until they are evenly distributed throughout the fudge mixture. The nuts add a delightful crunch and complement the creamy chocolate flavor beautifully.
- Pour and Set:
- Carefully pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly in the pan. Smooth the top of the fudge to ensure it sets evenly.
- Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for several hours, or until it is completely set. If you’re in a hurry, you can place the pan in the refrigerator for about 2 hours to speed up the setting process.
- Cut and Serve:
- Once the fudge is fully set, lift it out of the pan using the overhang of foil or parchment paper. Place the fudge on a cutting board and cut it into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference.
- Serve the fudge immediately or store it in an airtight container. If you have leftovers, keep them in a cool, dry place or refrigerate them to maintain their freshness.
Tips for Perfect Fudge
- Stir Constantly: To avoid a gritty texture, it’s essential to stir the fudge mixture constantly while it’s cooking. This ensures that the sugar dissolves completely and the fudge remains smooth.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and other ingredients are at room temperature for the best results. This helps them combine more easily and evenly.
- Avoid Overheating: Be careful not to overheat the fudge mixture, as this can cause it to become too thick or grainy. Keep the heat at medium or low to maintain a consistent texture.
- Customize Your Fudge: Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins such as dried fruits, toffee bits, or different types of nuts. You can also use different types of chocolate for a unique flavor.
Mamie Eisenhower’s Fudge is a timeless treat that offers a deliciously creamy and chocolatey experience. With its blend of milk chocolate, semisweet chocolate chips, and marshmallow creme, this fudge is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday gathering, a special occasion, or just because, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your household. Enjoy making and sharing this classic confection!
