Decadent Old Fashioned Fudge Recipe

This Decadent Old Fashioned Fudge recipe brings the rich, chocolatey goodness of classic homemade fudge right to your kitchen. With its creamy texture and melt-in-your-mouth flavor, this fudge is perfect for special occasions, holiday treats, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.

Made with simple ingredients like sugar, cocoa, and butter, it’s an easy-to-follow recipe that results in delightful squares that everyone will love. Indulge in this timeless treat and share the joy with friends and family!

Decadent Old Fashioned Fudge Recipe

Ingredients

Servings: 24 squares (approximately)

2 cups sugar

4 tablespoons Hershey’s cocoa

1 stick of salted butter

5-ounce can of Carnation Evaporated Milk

1 teaspoon of vanilla

Nuts (optional, but they add a delightful crunch!)

Instructions:

Prepare Your Pan: Before starting, line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

This will make it easy to remove the fudge later.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a heavy saucepan, combine the 2 cups of sugar and 4 tablespoons of Hershey’s cocoa. Whisk together until well blended.

Add Butter and Milk: Incorporate the stick of salted butter and the 5 ounces of Carnation Evaporated Milk into the sugar and cocoa mixture. This is where the magic begins!

Cook the Mixture: Heat over medium, stirring constantly. Bring to a rolling boil and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes. Aim for the soft ball stage; you can test by dropping a small amount into cold water—if it forms a soft ball, it’s ready.

Add Vanilla: Once off the heat, stir in the teaspoon of vanilla. This will elevate the flavor of your fudge!

Incorporate Nuts: If you like nuts, fold them into the mixture now for a crunchy contrast to the creamy fudge.

Set the Fudge: Pour the mixture into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Allow it to cool for several hours. For best results, let it set overnight.

Cut and Enjoy: Once fully set, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper and place it on a cutting board. Cut into squares and enjoy your delicious creation!

Notes:

Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pan: A heavy saucepan helps distribute heat evenly, reducing the risk of burning the fudge.

Soft Ball Stage: To achieve the perfect consistency, monitor the boiling time carefully. Testing in cold water is key; if it forms a soft ball, it’s ready to remove from heat.

Ingredient Temperature: Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier mixing. This will help the ingredients blend more smoothly.

Optional Nuts: If adding nuts, consider toasting them lightly beforehand to enhance their flavor and crunch.

Storage: Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer freshness, refrigerate it.

Variations: Feel free to experiment with mix-ins like chocolate chips, dried fruit, or different types of nuts for unique flavor combinations.

Cutting Fudge: For cleaner cuts, use a sharp knife and lightly oil it before slicing.

Setting Time: While it’s tempting to taste it early, allowing the fudge to set overnight will yield the best texture and flavor.

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Gifting: Wrap the fudge in decorative packaging for a thoughtful homemade gift during holidays or special occasions.

Flavor Enhancements: Adding a pinch of salt or a splash of coffee can deepen the chocolate flavor, giving the fudge an extra layer of richness.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 24 squares | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use unsweetened cocoa powder instead of Hershey’s cocoa?

Yes, you can use any high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder.

Just be aware that different brands may have varying flavor profiles.

What can I substitute for evaporated milk?

You can use condensed milk for a sweeter fudge or substitute with whole milk mixed with a bit of cream for a similar texture.

How do I know when the fudge is done?

The fudge is ready when it reaches the soft ball stage, which you can test by dropping a small amount into cold water.

It should form a soft ball.

Can I make this fudge without nuts?

Absolutely! The nuts are optional, and the fudge will still be delicious without them.

What’s the best way to store leftover fudge?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, or refrigerate it for longer freshness.

Can I freeze fudge?

Yes, fudge can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

How can I cut the fudge neatly?

For cleaner cuts, use a sharp knife and lightly oil it before slicing.

You can also refrigerate the fudge briefly to firm it up before cutting.

Can I add other flavors to the fudge?

Yes! You can enhance the fudge with flavors like peppermint extract, almond extract, or even a bit of espresso powder.

Why did my fudge turn out grainy?

Graininess can occur if the sugar doesn’t dissolve completely or if it’s stirred too much during cooking.

Make sure to stir gently and avoid excessive agitation.

Is this fudge suitable for gifting?

Definitely! Wrap the fudge in decorative packaging or a tin for a thoughtful homemade gift for holidays or special occasions.