Oh my gosh, let me tell you about the magic of making old fashioned fudge! It’s one of those classic treats that instantly brings me back to my childhood. I remember my grandmother whipping up a batch on rainy days, filling the house with that irresistible chocolate aroma. The way it melts in your mouth is pure bliss! This recipe is rich and creamy, and honestly, it’s so simple that anyone can make it. Plus, it’s perfect for sharing—if you can resist sneaking a piece (or three) before it sets! Trust me, once you taste this fudge, you’ll be hooked for life, just like I was!
Ingredients for Old Fashioned Fudge
Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to create your own batch of delicious old fashioned fudge:
- 2 cups granulated sugar – This is the sweet base that makes the fudge rich and delightful.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – For that deep, chocolatey flavor that we all crave.
- 1/2 cup milk – This helps to create that creamy texture that makes fudge so irresistible.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter – Adds richness and helps with that smooth mouthfeel.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A splash of vanilla elevates the flavor beautifully.
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional) – I love adding walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch, but it’s totally up to you!
How to Prepare Old Fashioned Fudge
Making old fashioned fudge is a delightful process that’s both fun and rewarding! Follow these steps closely, and you’ll have a batch of luscious fudge ready to enjoy in no time:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, and milk. Stir gently to mix everything together.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil. This is where the magic starts!
- Once boiling, stop stirring and let it boil for 4-5 minutes. This is crucial—overcooking can lead to a grainy texture, so keep an eye on the clock!
- After 4-5 minutes, remove the saucepan from heat. Add the unsalted butter and vanilla extract, then beat the mixture vigorously with a wooden spoon until it thickens and loses its glossy sheen. This should take a minute or two.
- If you’re adding nuts, stir them in at this point. I love the extra crunch they bring!
- Pour the fudge into a greased pan, spreading it evenly. Let it cool at room temperature before cutting into squares. The waiting is the hardest part, but trust me, it’s worth it!
Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Fudge Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it a perfect last-minute treat!
- Classic Flavor: The rich, chocolatey taste is a nostalgic favorite that never goes out of style.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or even experiment with different extracts for a unique twist.
- Perfect for Sharing: Cut it into squares and share with friends and family, or keep it all for yourself—no judgment here!
- Memorable Moments: Making fudge is a delightful experience that creates sweet memories, just like my grandma did with me.
Tips for Success with Old Fashioned Fudge
Here are some of my best tips to ensure your old fashioned fudge turns out perfectly every time:
- Watch the Time: Timing is everything! Don’t overcook the fudge once it reaches a boil—4-5 minutes is all you need for that perfect texture.
- Use a Candy Thermometer: If you have one, aim for around 234°F (112°C) for soft-ball stage. This way, you’ll avoid any guesswork!
- Beat It Right: When you add the butter and vanilla, make sure to beat the mixture well until it thickens. This step is crucial for that smooth finish!
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add a splash of peppermint or almond extract for a fun twist. You can even try adding a pinch of sea salt for a delightful contrast!
- Cool Completely: Let the fudge cool completely before cutting it. I know it’s tempting to dive in early, but patience pays off!
Nutritional Information for Old Fashioned Fudge
Now, I want to share a bit about the nutritional side of this delicious old fashioned fudge. Keep in mind that nutrition can vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just a general guide. Each piece of fudge typically contains:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 7g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
Enjoying this treat in moderation is key, and trust me, it’s worth every bite of that creamy, chocolatey goodness!
FAQ About Old Fashioned Fudge
Got questions about making old fashioned fudge? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I’ve run into:
Can I use sweetened cocoa powder instead of unsweetened?
Nope! Stick to unsweetened cocoa powder for the best results. Sweetened cocoa can throw off the balance of sugar in the recipe.
What if my fudge didn’t set?
If your fudge didn’t set properly, it may need a bit more heat. You can re-cook it gently, bringing it back to a boil for a minute or two, then let it cool again. But be careful not to overdo it!
Can I add other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Feel free to throw in some chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even crushed candy canes for a festive twist. Just keep in mind that adding too many extras can affect the texture!
How long does old fashioned fudge last?
When stored in an airtight container, your fudge can last up to two weeks at room temperature. You can also refrigerate it for longer storage, but it might change the texture a bit.
Is it possible to double the recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to use a larger saucepan to accommodate the extra ingredients. And remember to keep an eye on the cooking time—it may vary slightly with a bigger batch!
Storage & Reheating Instructions for Old Fashioned Fudge
Storing your delicious old fashioned fudge is super easy! Just place the cooled fudge in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to two weeks, but if you want it to last longer, pop it in the fridge. Just remember, refrigeration might change the texture a bit, making it firmer. If you prefer it softer, let it sit at room temperature for a bit before enjoying.
Now, if you find yourself wanting to indulge in that dreamy fudge again, there’s no need to reheat it! It’s best enjoyed at room temperature, but if you do want to warm it up slightly, just pop a piece in the microwave for about 10 seconds. Happy snacking!
Serving Suggestions for Old Fashioned Fudge
Oh, the possibilities are endless when it comes to serving old fashioned fudge! You can enjoy it on its own, of course, but why not elevate the experience? Try pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful sundae—trust me, the contrast of warm fudge and cold ice cream is heavenly! You can also crumble some fudge over a bowl of fresh berries for a decadent dessert or layer it between slices of cake for an extra chocolatey treat. And for a fun twist, chop it up and mix it into your favorite cookie dough. The sky’s the limit—get creative and enjoy every bite!
Z nadrukami
Old Fashioned Fudge: 5 Steps to Irresistible Bliss
- Całkowity Czas: 25 minutes
- Ustępować: 24 pieces 1x
- Dieta: Wegańskie
Opis
Classic old fashioned fudge recipe for a rich and creamy treat.
Składniki
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instrukcje
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, cocoa powder, and milk.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Boil for 4-5 minutes without stirring.
- Remove from heat and add butter and vanilla extract.
- Beat the mixture until it thickens and loses its gloss.
- Stir in nuts if desired.
- Pour into a greased pan and let it cool before cutting into squares.
Uwagi
- Store fudge in an airtight container.
- For a smoother texture, avoid overcooking.
- Experiment with different flavors by adding extracts.
- Czas Przygotowania: 15 minutes
- Czas gotowania: 10 minutes
- Kategoria: Dessert
- Sposób: Stovetop
- Kuchnia: American
Zasilanie
- Wielkość porcji: 1 piece
- Kalorie: 150
- Cukier: 20g
- Sód: 10mg
- Kwasy: 7g
- Nasycony tłuszcz: 4g
- Tłuszcze Nienasycone: 2g
- Tłuszcze trans: 0g
- Węglowodany: 20g
- Włókno: 1g
- Białko: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Słowa kluczowe: old fashioned fudge, chocolate fudge, dessert recipe
