Old Fashioned Fudge Recipe – glassika recipes

Old Fashioned Fudge Recipe: A Classic Sweet Treat

Chocolate lovers, get ready to indulge in a rich, creamy, and nostalgic dessert that has stood the test of time! This Old Fashioned Fudge is a decadent, melt-in-your-mouth treat that brings back warm childhood memories with every bite. Made with simple, high-quality ingredients like cocoa, butter, and vanilla, this classic recipe requires no special equipment and delivers the perfect balance of chocolatey sweetness and smooth texture.

Whether you’re making a batch for the holidays, a special occasion, or just because you’re craving a timeless homemade dessert, this easy fudge recipe is a must-try. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating the best Old Fashioned Fudge right in your own kitchen.

Introduction

Fudge is one of those classic homemade candies that never goes out of style. It has been a favorite dessert for generations, offering a dense yet creamy texture that satisfies any sweet tooth. Unlike modern fudge recipes that rely on condensed milk or marshmallow fluff, this traditional Old Fashioned Fudge is made the original way, using granulated sugar, cocoa, and milk, cooked to perfection until it reaches the ideal consistency.

The beauty of this classic chocolate fudge recipe is its simplicity—you only need a handful of ingredients and some patience to create a rich, velvety treat. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a first-time candy maker, this foolproof recipe will help you master the art of making perfect fudge every time.

Ingredients

To make this Old Fashioned Fudge, you will need the following ingredients:

Essential Ingredients

2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3/4 cup whole milk
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

These simple pantry staples come together to create a rich, chocolatey fudge that is smooth, creamy, and incredibly satisfying.

How to Make Old Fashioned Fudge

1. Prepare Your Pan

Before you start cooking, line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter. This will make it easier to remove the fudge once it has set.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt. Whisk them together until well blended. This helps distribute the cocoa evenly, ensuring a smooth, chocolatey flavor.

3. Add the Milk and Heat

Pour in the whole milk and place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar and cocoa dissolve, and the mixture begins to heat up evenly.

4. Bring to a Boil

Once the mixture is fully combined, bring it to a rolling boil, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat slightly and let it simmer without stirring until it reaches soft-ball stage (238°F on a candy thermometer). This process usually takes 10-15 minutes. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test by dropping a small amount of the mixture into a bowl of cold water—it should form a soft, pliable ball.

5. Add the Butter and Vanilla

Once the fudge reaches soft-ball stage, remove it from the heat and add the unsalted butter and vanilla extract. Do not stir yet—let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the temperature to drop slightly.

6. Beat the Mixture

After cooling slightly, begin beating the fudge vigorously with a wooden spoon. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens and loses its glossy sheen. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect creamy texture.

7. Pour and Set

Once the fudge starts to hold its shape, quickly pour it into the prepared pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula and let it cool at room temperature for 2-3 hours until fully set.

8. Slice and Serve

Once the fudge has completely cooled and firmed up, cut it into small squares and enjoy!

Helpful Tips

Use a Candy Thermometer: This ensures precise temperature control, helping you achieve perfectly set fudge every time.
Avoid Over-Stirring: Stirring too much while the mixture is boiling can cause sugar crystallization, making the fudge grainy instead of smooth.
Be Patient: Let the fudge cool slightly before beating—it helps develop the right consistency.
Cut with a Warm Knife: Dip a sharp knife in warm water before slicing for clean, smooth cuts.

Cooking Tips

To elevate your Old Fashioned Fudge, consider these pro tips:

Add Nuts: Mix in chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for a delicious crunch.
Make It Sweeter: If you prefer sweeter fudge, increase the sugar slightly or add a drizzle of honey.
Use Heavy Cream: For an extra creamy texture, replace part of the milk with heavy cream.
Enhance the Flavor: Try adding espresso powder, sea salt, or cinnamon for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

This rich, homemade fudge is delicious on its own, but here are some fun ways to serve it:

With Ice Cream: Crumble fudge pieces over vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a decadent treat.
As a Gift: Wrap individual squares in parchment paper and place them in a decorative tin for homemade gifts.
With Coffee or Hot Cocoa: Enjoy with a cup of hot chocolate or freshly brewed coffee.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a general nutritional breakdown per serving (per 1-inch square piece):

Calories: 120
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 30mg
Calcium: 2%
Iron: 4%

Storage & Leftovers

Room Temperature: Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Refrigerate: Keep in the fridge for up to 3 weeks for longer freshness.
Freeze: Wrap fudge in wax paper and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is my fudge grainy?
Grainy fudge usually happens if the sugar crystallizes too soon. Make sure to avoid stirring while the fudge is boiling.

Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes! While whole milk is best, you can use evaporated milk or heavy cream for extra richness.

Can I make this fudge dairy-free?
Yes! Swap out whole milk for coconut milk and use dairy-free butter for a plant-based version.

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Conclusion

This Old Fashioned Fudge is a true classic chocolate dessert that’s rich, creamy, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for the holidays, gifting it to friends, or simply treating yourself, this easy fudge recipe is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. Try it today and enjoy the delicious homemade taste of traditional fudge! 🍫