Old Fashioned Fudge Recipe – The Ultimate Guide to Classic, Homemade Fudge! 😍

If you’re looking for a simple yet indulgent treat that brings back memories of sweet homemade confections, look no further than this Old Fashioned Fudge recipe. With only a handful of ingredients and just a few easy steps, you can whip up a batch of creamy, melt-in-your-mouth fudge in less than 20 minutes! Whether you’re an experienced candy maker or a complete beginner, this easy-to-follow recipe guarantees a rich, smooth texture every time.

The beauty of this classic fudge lies in its simplicity. Made with Hershey’s cocoa powder, salted butter, and Carnation evaporated milk, this recipe is the perfect balance of sweet and chocolatey flavors, with a hint of vanilla to elevate the taste. Add in some chopped nuts for extra crunch and texture, and you’ll have the ultimate fudge that everyone will rave about.

Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients: The Essentials for Perfect Fudge

For this Old Fashioned Fudge recipe, you’ll need just a few basic ingredients. They are easy to find in most grocery stores, and you’ll likely already have some of them in your pantry.

2 Cups Sugar: Granulated white sugar is the base that gives this fudge its sweetness and smooth texture.
4 Tablespoons Hershey’s Cocoa Powder: This is what gives the fudge its rich chocolate flavor. You can use any unsweetened cocoa powder you prefer, but Hershey’s is a classic choice.

1 Stick of Salted Butter (1/2 cup): Butter not only adds flavor but also helps give the fudge its creamy consistency. The salt in the butter adds a nice contrast to the sweetness of the sugar and chocolate.
5 Ounce Can of Carnation Evaporated Milk: This is the secret ingredient that makes the fudge smooth and creamy. Evaporated milk is richer than regular milk, so it helps create a denser, silkier texture in your fudge.
1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Vanilla enhances the flavor of the chocolate and adds a pleasant aromatic note.

Optional: Chopped Nuts: If you like a bit of crunch, adding nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds is a fantastic idea. They pair beautifully with the chocolatey fudge and add texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Making the Perfect Old Fashioned Fudge

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the simple steps to make your Old Fashioned Fudge. It’s quick, easy, and super satisfying!

Step 1: Mix Sugar and Cocoa Powder

In a medium-sized saucepan, start by combining 2 cups of sugar and 4 tablespoons of cocoa powder. Stir them together with a whisk or spoon until the mixture is fully blended. This step is important to ensure the cocoa powder is evenly distributed throughout the sugar and doesn’t form any clumps later on.

Step 2: Add Butter and Evaporated Milk

Once the cocoa and sugar are mixed, add in 1 stick of salted butter (cut into chunks to help it melt faster) and the entire 5-ounce can of Carnation evaporated milk. Stir gently to combine everything. The butter will start to melt as you stir, so keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn.

Step 3: Bring to a Boil

Place the saucepan over medium heat, and continue stirring constantly. This is crucial, as it helps prevent the sugar from crystallizing or burning. As the mixture heats up, it will start to bubble and boil. You’ll need to keep stirring until it reaches a full, rolling boil.

Step 4: Boil for 7 Minutes

Once the fudge mixture is boiling, reduce the heat slightly, but maintain a steady boil. Stir continuously for exactly 7 minutes. This step allows the fudge to thicken and reach the perfect consistency. Be sure to keep stirring so that the fudge doesn’t burn on the bottom. You’ll notice the mixture will start to darken and thicken as the time goes by.

Step 5: Add Vanilla and Stir

After 7 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat immediately. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This adds a delicious flavor and a sweet, fragrant aroma to the fudge. Once the vanilla is incorporated, continue stirring for an additional 3 minutes. This step is important to help the fudge firm up and develop the ideal texture.

Step 6: Pour Into a Buttered Baking Dish

Next, prepare a baking dish by greasing it with a little butter or lining it with parchment paper. A standard 8×8-inch baking dish works perfectly, but you can use any size that gives you the desired thickness for your fudge. Pour the fudge mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. The mixture will be hot and a bit runny at this stage, but it will set as it cools.

Step 7: Let It Cool and Set

Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for about 1 to 2 hours. During this time, it will firm up and become more solid. Don’t rush this step—let the fudge set completely before cutting it into squares.

If you like your fudge extra smooth and shiny, you can even refrigerate it for a few hours to speed up the setting process. However, cooling it at room temperature is usually sufficient for a perfect texture.

Step 8: Optional – Add Nuts

If you like the idea of nuts in your fudge, you can mix in chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds right after removing the saucepan from the heat. Alternatively, you can sprinkle them on top of the fudge just before it sets. This adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, chocolatey fudge.

Tips for Perfect Fudge Every Time

While this recipe is straightforward, there are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure that your fudge turns out perfectly every time:

Stir constantly: The key to a smooth fudge is to keep stirring. This prevents any sugar from crystallizing and helps the ingredients blend together seamlessly.
Don’t skip the 7-minute boiling step: Boiling the mixture for exactly 7 minutes helps the fudge thicken and achieve its classic texture. If you boil it too long, the fudge may become too hard; too short, and it will be too soft.
Cool completely before cutting: Allow the fudge to cool and firm up completely before slicing it into squares. Cutting it while it’s still warm will cause it to become messy and sticky.

How to Store Your Homemade Fudge

Once your Old Fashioned Fudge has set, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you prefer, you can also refrigerate the fudge, which will help it last longer and keep it firm. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before eating for the best texture.

You can also freeze fudge for up to 3 months. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Let the fudge thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use sweetened cocoa powder instead of unsweetened? It’s best to use unsweetened cocoa powder, as the sugar in the recipe is already enough to sweeten the fudge. If you use sweetened cocoa, the fudge may end up too sweet.

2. Can I substitute evaporated milk with regular milk or cream? Evaporated milk gives the fudge a creamy texture and richness that regular milk or cream can’t quite replicate. If you absolutely must substitute, heavy cream could be used in place of evaporated milk, but it may alter the texture slightly.

3. How do I know when the fudge is done boiling? The 7-minute boil is a good rule of thumb. You can also test the fudge by dropping a small spoonful into cold water. If it forms a soft ball, it’s ready to come off the heat.

4. Can I add other flavors to the fudge? Absolutely! Try adding a tablespoon of peanut butter, mint extract, or even a pinch of sea salt for a unique twist on this classic fudge recipe.

5. How can I tell when my fudge is set? The fudge should feel firm to the touch but not rock hard. It should be easy to cut into neat squares without crumbling.

6. Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double the recipe! Just make sure to use a larger saucepan and a bigger baking dish. You’ll also need to increase the boiling time slightly, so keep an eye on the consistency.

Conclusion

This Old Fashioned Fudge recipe is a nostalgic, easy-to-make treat that’s sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings. With just a few ingredients, a little stirring, and less than 20 minutes, you can create a batch of rich, creamy fudge that everyone will love. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy at home, this classic fudge recipe is a guaranteed winner!