Old Fashioned Fudge Recipe

This classic Old Fashioned Fudge recipe is simple yet delicious, offering a rich, creamy texture with a deep chocolate flavor. With just a few ingredients, you can create a perfect treat that evokes nostalgia and brings smiles to everyone who tries it. Whether you’re looking to share with loved ones or satisfy a sweet craving, this fudge is sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 2 cups sugar
• 4 tablespoons Hershey’s cocoa
• 1 stick salted butter
• 5-ounce can of Carnation evaporated milk

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, cocoa, butter, and evaporated milk.
2. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it comes to a boil.
3. Once boiling, continue to cook for 7 minutes while stirring consistently.
4. After 7 minutes, remove the saucepan from heat and beat the mixture until it thickens.
5. Pour the fudge mixture into a buttered dish and allow it to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 16 squares, depending on how large you cut them.
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

While this Old Fashioned Fudge recipe is perfect as is, you can customize it with a few variations to suit your preferences:

• Nuts: Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds into the fudge mixture for added texture and flavor.
• Peanut Butter Fudge: Swirl in a few tablespoons of peanut butter to make a rich peanut butter fudge variation.
• Marshmallow Fudge: Stir in mini marshmallows right before removing the fudge from heat for a fun twist.
• White Chocolate Fudge: Substitute the cocoa powder with white chocolate chips for a creamy, sweet white chocolate version.
• Mint Fudge: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to give the fudge a refreshing minty flavor.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: To store the fudge, place it in an airtight container and keep it at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it, where it will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.
• Reheating: If the fudge becomes too firm after refrigeration, gently reheat it in the microwave in short intervals (about 10-15 seconds at a time) until it softens enough to cut or serve.

10 Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?
   Yes, but if you use unsalted butter, you might want to add a pinch of salt to maintain the flavor balance.
2. Can I make this fudge without evaporated milk?
   Evaporated milk is key for the texture, but if you don’t have it, you can try using heavy cream or regular milk as an alternative.
3. Why do I need to stir constantly while boiling?
   Stirring constantly prevents the fudge from burning or sticking to the pan, ensuring it cooks evenly.
4. Can I double the recipe to make more fudge?
   Yes, you can double the ingredients to make a larger batch. Just make sure to adjust your cooking time as needed, and be sure to use a larger saucepan.
5. How do I know when the fudge is ready?
   The fudge is ready when it reaches a thick, spreadable consistency and pulls away from the sides of the pan. You can also test it by dropping a small amount in cold water to see if it forms a soft ball.
6. Can I use another type of cocoa powder?
   Yes, but the flavor may vary slightly depending on the type of cocoa you choose. Hershey’s cocoa gives a classic taste, but any unsweetened cocoa powder should work.
7. How do I store fudge in warm weather?
   In warmer climates, refrigerate the fudge to prevent it from becoming too soft or melting. Keep it in an airtight container for best results.
8. How long does the fudge need to cool before I can cut it?
   Let the fudge cool completely before cutting. This usually takes about an hour at room temperature.
9. Can I freeze the fudge for later?
   Yes, you can freeze fudge for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag.
10. What should I do if the fudge turns out too hard?
    If your fudge becomes too hard, try adding a little milk and gently reheating it to soften it. You can also try reducing the cooking time next time to prevent overcooking.

Conclusion

Old Fashioned Fudge is a delightful treat that brings a touch of nostalgia to any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy this rich and creamy fudge in just 20 minutes. Whether you stick to the classic version or add your own twist with variations, this recipe is sure to be a favorite. Keep it on hand for the perfect dessert or gift idea, and savor the homemade goodness!

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