Description
Rich chocolate Old Fashioned Fudge melts smoothly on palates with nostalgic charm. Sweet memories swirl through each silky square, inviting you to savor classic dessert perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Chocolate Base:
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2/3 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
Binding Agents:
- 1 jar (7 oz) marshmallow creme
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Finishing Ingredients:
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare a 9×9-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring overhang for easy removal, and lightly grease the exposed sides.
- In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, butter, evaporated milk, and cocoa powder, stirring to create a smooth mixture.
- Position a candy thermometer in the pan and heat the mixture over medium-high heat, continuously stirring to prevent scorching and ensure even heating.
- Cook the chocolate base until it reaches exactly 234°F (soft-ball stage), which typically takes 10-12 minutes of careful monitoring.
- Immediately remove the pan from heat and quickly fold in marshmallow creme, stirring vigorously to create a uniform, glossy texture.
- Incorporate vanilla extract and salt, mixing thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly throughout the fudge.
- If using nuts, gently fold them into the mixture, ensuring they are well-distributed.
- Pour the molten fudge into the prepared pan, using a silicone spatula to spread it evenly and eliminate any air pockets.
- Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for 2-3 hours, or until it sets completely and becomes firm to the touch.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the fudge from the pan and transfer to a cutting board.
- Slice into precise squares, wiping the knife clean between cuts for neat, professional-looking pieces.
- Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Notes
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to distribute heat evenly and prevent burning, avoiding potential scorching during the cooking process.
- Monitor the temperature precisely with a reliable candy thermometer, as reaching exactly 234°F is crucial for achieving the perfect fudge consistency.
- Stir continuously while cooking to prevent sugar crystallization and ensure a smooth, creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
- For nut-free or alternative dietary needs, easily swap out nuts or omit them completely without compromising the fudge’s rich chocolate flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 205
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 20 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 31 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg