Description
This classic Mom’s Fudge recipe yields rich, creamy, and perfectly textured chocolate fudge that’s easy to make at home. With simple pantry ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, this fudge is a nostalgic treat perfect for holidays, gifts, or anytime you crave a sweet homemade dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Fudge Ingredients
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Combine dry ingredients: In a heavy saucepan, mix granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt thoroughly until well blended to ensure even flavor distribution.
- Add milk and heat: Pour in the whole milk and stir the mixture gently. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil while stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Boil to soft ball stage: Stop stirring and allow the mixture to boil until it reaches 234°F (soft ball stage) as measured with a candy thermometer. This temperature ensures proper fudge consistency.
- Add butter and vanilla, cool: Remove the saucepan from heat, add the unsalted butter and vanilla extract, and let the mixture cool without stirring until it reaches 110°F.
- Beat to thicken: Using a wooden spoon, beat the cooled mixture vigorously for about 7-10 minutes until it thickens and loses its glossy appearance, signaling the fudge is ready to set.
- Pour and set: Pour the fudge into a buttered 8×8-inch pan, spreading it evenly. Allow it to set at room temperature until firm, then cut into 36 squares for serving.
Notes
- Use a heavy saucepan to prevent burning during boiling.
- Do not stir after reaching the soft ball stage to ensure proper texture.
- Allow the fudge to cool to the correct temperature before beating for best results.
- Butter the pan well to prevent sticking.
- Store fudge in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
