Old Fashioned Fudge

Introduction

There’s something magical about making fudge that brings back memories of my childhood. The rich, chocolatey aroma wafting through the kitchen, the sound of the saucepan gently bubbling on the stove, and the joy of sharing a sweet treat with family and friends are all part of the experience. This Old Fashioned Fudge recipe has been a staple in my home for years, passed down through generations, and it never fails to impress. In less than 20 minutes, you can whip up a batch of creamy, delicious fudge that rivals any store-bought version. Each bite is a perfect blend of sweetness and richness, making it a beloved treat for both kids and adults.

Ingredients

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

• 2 cups sugar
• 4 tablespoons Hershey’s cocoa powder
• 1 stick of salted butter
• 1 (5-ounce) can of Carnation evaporated milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Nuts (optional)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of Old Fashioned Fudge:

1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients and measure them out. This will make the cooking process smoother.
2. Mix Sugar and Cocoa: In a medium-sized saucepan, mix together the sugar and cocoa powder. This step ensures that the cocoa is evenly distributed throughout the fudge.
3. Add Butter and Evaporated Milk: Add the stick of salted butter and the can of evaporated milk to the dry mixture. Stir well until everything is combined.
4. Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir continuously to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
5. Boil and Stir: Once the mixture reaches a boil, continue stirring for 7 minutes. This is crucial for achieving that perfect fudge texture.
6. Remove from Heat: After 7 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, and if you desire, fold in the nuts at this stage.
7. Cool and Set: Continue stirring the mixture for another 3 minutes to help it cool slightly. Then, pour the fudge into a buttered baking dish, spreading it evenly. Allow it to set at room temperature until firm.
8. Cut and Serve: Once set, cut the fudge into squares and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: Approximately 16 pieces
• Calories: 120 kcal per piece
• Sugar: 17 g
• Sodium: 50 mg
• Fat: 6 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

How to Serve

Enjoy your Old Fashioned Fudge in various ways:

• As a Dessert: Serve it on its own for a sweet treat after meals.
• Gift Giving: Wrap pieces in decorative boxes for gifts.
• With Coffee: Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Ice Cream Topping: Crumble over vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
• At Parties: Cut into bite-sized squares for easy sharing at gatherings.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your cocoa powder and evaporated milk are fresh for the best flavor.
2. Stir Continuously: Stirring is crucial to prevent the fudge from burning and to achieve the right texture.
3. Add Flavor Variations: Experiment with flavors by adding a pinch of salt or a splash of almond extract for a different twist.
4. Watch the Time: Stick to the boiling times for perfect fudge; too short and it won’t set properly, too long and it may become grainy.
5. Grease the Dish Well: Ensure your baking dish is well-buttered to make removing the fudge easier.

Recipe Variations

• Nutty Fudge: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Marshmallow Fudge: Stir in mini marshmallows before pouring into the dish for a gooey texture.
• Mint Chocolate Fudge: Add peppermint extract for a refreshing twist.
• Peanut Butter Fudge: Swirl in some peanut butter before setting for a delicious combo.
• Dark Chocolate Fudge: Substitute half the cocoa with dark chocolate for a richer taste.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some ideas to elevate your fudge experience:

• Presentation: Serve the fudge on a decorative platter with fresh strawberries or raspberries.
• Themed Treats: Make seasonal variations by adding colored sprinkles or themed decorations.
• Pairing: Complement with desserts like brownies or cookies for a sweet dessert table.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store your fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
• Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will last in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use unsalted butter instead?

• Yes, but you may want to add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

1. What if my fudge doesn’t set?

• It may need more time to cool. If it’s still too soft, try reboiling it for a few more minutes.

1. Can I use other types of milk?

• Evaporated milk gives the best results, but you could try sweetened condensed milk for a different flavor.

1. How do I know when my fudge is ready?

• It should be thickened and slightly pull away from the sides of the pan during cooking.

1. What’s the best way to cut fudge?

• Use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts for neat squares.

1. Can I make fudge in advance?

• Absolutely! It keeps well, making it a great make-ahead treat.

1. Can I add flavorings other than vanilla?

• Yes! Experiment with almond or orange extract for a different taste.

1. Is this fudge gluten-free?

• Yes, all the ingredients listed are gluten-free, but always check labels for assurance.

1. How should I store leftover fudge?

• Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.

1. Can I double the recipe?
   • Yes, you can double it, but make sure your pot is large enough to accommodate the increased volume.

Conclusion

Old Fashioned Fudge is a simple yet delightful treat that brings a taste of nostalgia to any occasion. Whether enjoyed on its own, given as a gift, or served at a gathering, this fudge is sure to please. With just a few ingredients and minimal time, you can create a sweet masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds. So gather your ingredients, embrace the joy of making fudge, and savor every bite of this timeless classic!

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