Old Fashioned Fudge is a beloved treat that has stood the test of time. With its rich, velvety texture and bold chocolate flavor, this classic fudge recipe has been a staple for generations. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday celebration, looking for a heartfelt gift, or simply indulging in a sweet craving, this delightful fudge is the perfect choice. Made from simple pantry ingredients like sugar, butter, and cocoa, this recipe evokes the nostalgia of homemade treats, requiring only a touch of patience to achieve that perfect melt-in-your-mouth consistency.

Why It’s Great

What sets Old Fashioned Fudge apart is its essence of traditional candy-making, relying on just a handful of ingredients and precise techniques. Unlike contemporary shortcuts, this method involves boiling the mixture to a specific temperature, resulting in the signature smooth and creamy texture that everyone loves. It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience, whether you’re gifting it, sharing it at gatherings, or enjoying it at home. Once you’ve tasted this fudge, you’ll find that nothing compares to its authentic, homemade charm!

Ingredients

• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the pan: Start by greasing an 8×8-inch baking dish with butter or line it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
3. Cook the fudge: Add the milk to your dry mixture and stir gently to combine. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat slightly and stop stirring. Let it cook until it reaches 234°F (112°C) on a candy thermometer, known as the soft-ball stage. This process should take about 10-15 minutes.
4. Remove from heat: After the mixture hits the soft-ball stage, carefully remove it from heat. Add in the butter and vanilla extract, but resist the temptation to stir just yet. Allow it to sit undisturbed for about 10 minutes to cool slightly.
5. Beat the fudge: Once cooled, take a wooden spoon and beat the mixture vigorously for about 5-8 minutes until it thickens and loses some of its shine. This beating step is crucial for achieving that classic fudge texture.
6. Set the fudge: Pour the fudge into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Allow it to sit at room temperature until fully set, which usually takes about 2 to 3 hours. Once firm, cut it into squares and enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Old Fashioned Fudge shines at room temperature. Cut it into small, delightful squares and serve it as a sweet treat during holidays, parties, or family gatherings. For an extra indulgence, enjoy it with a steaming cup of coffee or tea.
• Storage: To keep your fudge fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a month or freeze it for up to three months. When freezing, wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap to guard against moisture that could affect its texture.

Helpful Notes

• Soft-ball stage: A candy thermometer is key to ensuring the mixture reaches the precise temperature of 234°F. If you lack a thermometer, you can drop a small amount of the mixture into cold water: if it forms a soft ball that flattens when removed, it’s ready.
• Beating the fudge: This step is vital for achieving the signature smooth texture. Be patient! Continue beating until the mixture thickens and takes on a matte finish, signaling it’s ready to set.
• Flavor variations: Want to mix things up? Consider adding chopped nuts, marshmallows, or chocolate chips to the fudge just before pouring it into the pan for added texture and flavor.

FAQs

1. What if I don’t have a candy thermometer?

You can still find out if the fudge is ready by dropping a small amount into cold water. If it forms a soft ball that flattens slightly, then you’ve reached the soft-ball stage.

2. Why didn’t my fudge set?

If your fudge didn’t set, it may not have reached the soft-ball stage (234°F). It’s important to monitor the temperature with a candy thermometer for the right consistency.

3. Can I use a different type of milk?

While whole milk is recommended for the best texture, you can substitute it with 2% milk. Just steer clear of non-dairy or low-fat milk, as it may alter the fudge’s consistency.

4. Can I add flavors to the fudge?

Absolutely! You can introduce additional flavors like vanilla extract, peppermint extract, or other flavorings to craft the fudge to your liking. Just mix them in during the final steps.

5. Can I make this fudge without butter?

Butter is what gives the fudge its rich, creamy texture. If you leave it out, the fudge might lack the same depth of flavor and smoothness.