Indulge in Decadence: Old-Fashioned Fudge Recipe
Step into a world of nostalgic sweetness with our Old-Fashioned Fudge recipe. Crafted with simple ingredients and a whole lot of love, this classic treat will transport you back to cherished memories of grandma’s kitchen. With its rich chocolatey flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, this fudge is sure to become a beloved favorite for generations to come. So, roll up your sleeves and prepare to embark on a delicious journey down memory lane.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 tablespoons Hershey’s cocoa
- 1 stick of salted butter
- 5-ounce can of Carnation Evaporated Milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- Nuts (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
- Mix Ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, cocoa, butter, and evaporated milk over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a rolling boil.
- Boil: Once boiling, continue to cook and stir for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture reaches the soft-ball stage (about 234-240°F or 112-115°C on a candy thermometer).
- Cool and Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool for 1-2 minutes. Then, stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
- Beat Until Thickened: Using a wooden spoon or hand mixer, beat the fudge mixture vigorously until it thickens and starts to lose its gloss (this may take 5-10 minutes).
- Add Nuts (Optional): If desired, fold in chopped nuts of your choice at this stage.
- Pour and Set: Quickly pour the fudge into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
- Chill: Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours or until set.
- Cut and Serve: Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper or foil overhang. Cut into squares or rectangles and serve.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Texture Variation: For a creamier texture, substitute some of the sugar with brown sugar or add a few tablespoons of corn syrup to the mixture.
- Flavor Additions: Enhance the flavor of your fudge by adding a pinch of sea salt, a splash of espresso or rum extract, or a handful of mini marshmallows.
- Creative Toppings: Experiment with different toppings such as crushed candy canes, shredded coconut, or drizzled melted chocolate for added flair.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
For those seeking a keto or low-carb alternative, we’ve adapted this Old-Fashioned Fudge recipe to suit your dietary needs:
- Keto Version: Replace sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. Use unsweetened cocoa powder instead of Hershey’s cocoa. Substitute the evaporated milk with heavy cream or coconut cream. Be sure to use sugar-free vanilla extract.
- Low Carb Version: Use a combination of almond flour and coconut flour in place of sugar. Replace the evaporated milk with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk. Add chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture without adding significant carbs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: How do I store homemade fudge? A: Store your fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. You can also refrigerate it for longer shelf life, but let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Q: Can I freeze fudge? A: Yes, fudge freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Q: Can I double the recipe? A: Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and use a larger saucepan to accommodate the increased volume.
With its velvety texture and rich chocolate flavor, our Old-Fashioned Fudge recipe is a timeless indulgence that never goes out of style. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for holiday gatherings, gift-giving, or simply satisfying a sweet craving, this fudge is sure to delight. So channel your inner confectioner, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a taste of tradition with this irresistible homemade treat.
