Ah, Old-Fashioned Fudge! It’s like a delicious time machine that takes me back to those joyful holiday gatherings of my childhood. I remember sitting at my grandmother’s kitchen table, watching her whip up a batch of this rich, creamy treat. The smell of melting chocolate and a hint of vanilla wafting through the air created an ambiance of warmth and excitement. It was a family affair, and I’d eagerly await my turn to lick the spoon (who doesn’t love that part, right?). That first bite of creamy fudge melted in my mouth and brought pure bliss; I knew I had stumbled upon a treasure of a recipe!
What I absolutely adore about this Old-Fashioned Fudge is how simple yet divine it is. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dessert that feels like a hug in a square. It’s perfect for sharing or even just enjoying on your own (not that I’d know anything about that!).
What’s in Old-Fashioned Fudge?
**Sugar:** The star of the show! Granulated sugar is vital for that sweet, candy-like texture. It’s the foundation of the recipe, turning the simple ingredients into something special.
**Butter:** I’m a firm believer that butter makes everything better. It adds richness and helps create that delightful creaminess we all crave in fudge. Just remember, use unsalted so you can control the sweetness!
**Evaporated Milk:** This magical ingredient is what makes the fudge smooth and creamy. It gives it that luscious mouthfeel without being too heavy.
**Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips:** These are the flavor bombs of the fudge. I personally love using Ghirardelli chocolate chips for their quality and taste, but any good brand will do just fine.
**Vanilla Extract:** A splash of this aromatic liquid elevates the fudge and gives it a lovely, warm flavor. Always opt for pure vanilla—it’s worth the extra splurge, trust me!
**Walnuts (optional):** If you’re feeling nutty (pun intended), adding walnuts gives a delightful crunch. They’re completely optional, though—fudge is delicious on its own!
Is Old-Fashioned Fudge Good for You?
Now, let’s be real. While Old-Fashioned Fudge is undeniably delectable, it’s not a health food by any means! **Sugar** and **butter** are definitely indulgences, but sharing a piece or two with loved ones can be worth it for the joy it brings (the happiness benefits are real!). And hey, homemade treats have that extra sprinkle of love, right?
**Evaporated Milk** adds some creaminess without the heaviness of heavy cream, and let’s not forget about the antioxidants in **semi-sweet chocolate**! In moderation, this fudge can certainly satisfy your sweet tooth without completely derailing your day.
Ingredients
– **2 cups granulated sugar**
– **1/2 cup unsalted butter**
– **2/3 cup evaporated milk**
– **2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips**
– **1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract**
– **1 cup walnuts (optional)**
This recipe will yield about **24 pieces of delicious fudge**.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Fudge?
1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the **sugar**, **butter**, and **evaporated milk**. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a rolling boil.
2. Let it boil without stirring for **4-5 minutes**. You’re looking for it to reach the soft-ball stage (around 234°F or 112°C). If you have a candy thermometer, now’s the time to use it!
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat, and immediately stir in the **chocolate chips** and **vanilla extract** until everything is smooth and well combined.
4. If you’re adding those **walnuts**, toss them in now! Mix to distribute them evenly.
5. Pour the fudge mixture into a greased 8×8-inch baking pan, spreading it out evenly.
6. Allow it to cool at room temperature until set, usually about **2 hours**. You can also pop it in the fridge to speed up the process!
7. Once it’s fully set, cut it into squares, and enjoy!
Sweet Tips for Perfect Fudge
– If you want a creamier texture, don’t hesitate to add an extra tablespoon of butter or a splash more evaporated milk.
– For a flavor twist, consider mixing in a hint of almond extract or a sprinkle of sea salt on top.
– This fudge keeps well in an airtight container, making it perfect for giving as gifts or saving for a sweet treat later on. Just make sure to layer it between parchment paper to prevent sticking!
I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of making and sharing this Old-Fashioned Fudge. Trust me, it’s truly a classic treat that will warm hearts and create lasting memories. So, roll up your sleeves, put your apron on, and let’s make some fudge magic happen! Please share your experiences and any tips you discover along the way—I’d love to hear about your fudge adventures!
