Old-Fashioned Fudge

Oh wow, this Old-Fashioned Fudge is so classic! Just looking at it makes my mouth water. I had to try a piece right away.

I made it last weekend, and wow, it was so creamy and rich. The chocolate melts in your mouth perfectly. Every bite felt like a sweet little hug.

I kept thinking, “I wish I had more!” It’s smooth, chocolatey, and just so satisfying. You’ll want to make it too.

So yeah, let’s whip up a batch together. It’s easier than you think. Come on, let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Old-Fashioned Fudge Recipe

• Classic Flavor: This recipe delivers that traditional fudge taste that’s creamy, smooth, and utterly satisfying.
• Perfect Texture: No graininess here! The result is a silky-smooth fudge that melts in your mouth.
• Quick and Easy: Though it requires a few steps, this fudge can be made in about an hour (including cooling time).
• Great for Gifting: Cut it into squares and package it up for a thoughtful, homemade gift that everyone will appreciate.
• Family Favorite: Everyone will love this fudge, whether it’s kids, adults, or guests at your next gathering.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before we get started, let’s take a quick look at the essential tools you’ll need to make this fudge:

• Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan: A sturdy pot helps ensure that the fudge cooks evenly without burning.
• Candy Thermometer: This tool is crucial for getting the perfect texture. It helps you know exactly when the fudge has reached the right temperature for setting.
• Wooden Spoon or Heatproof Spatula: For stirring the fudge mixture as it cooks, and later when you’re spreading it in the pan.
• 9×9-inch Baking Pan: This size works perfectly for this recipe. You can also use a similar-sized pan depending on how thick you like your fudge.
• Parchment Paper: Line your pan with parchment paper to make it easier to remove the fudge after it sets.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious fudge (full measurements are in the recipe card below):

• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (½ cup): The base flavor of our fudge. Using high-quality cocoa will give your fudge a rich, chocolatey depth.
• White Sugar (2 cups): The sweetness that balances the richness of the cocoa powder. I use granulated sugar for consistency.
• Salt (¼ teaspoon): A small pinch of salt enhances the sweetness of the fudge, helping to balance the flavors.
• Light Corn Syrup (1 tablespoon): This helps prevent the fudge from crystallizing and ensures it stays smooth.
• Milk (1 cup): I use whole milk for creaminess, but you could also use a milk alternative for a different twist.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tablespoon): Adds a comforting flavor that complements the chocolate.
• Butter (2 tablespoons): The butter adds richness and smoothness to the fudge, making it melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Old-Fashioned Fudge

Making fudge from scratch might seem a bit intimidating, but trust me—it’s easier than you think! Let’s dive into the process.

1. Combine Cocoa, Sugar, and Salt

Start by placing the unsweetened cocoa powder, white sugar, and salt into a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Stir them together until well combined. The dry ingredients will begin to form a rich, cocoa-filled mixture that will serve as the foundation for our fudge.

2. Add Milk and Corn Syrup

Now, pour in the milk and add the light corn syrup. Stir the mixture together, making sure the dry ingredients are fully incorporated into the liquid. Bring the pot over medium heat and cook the mixture while stirring constantly.

3. Heat to Soft-Ball Stage

The goal here is to heat the fudge mixture to a specific temperature so that it sets perfectly once cooled. Using a candy thermometer, continue stirring and cook the fudge until it reaches 234°F (soft-ball stage). This can take anywhere from 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the temperature of your stove, so keep a close eye on the thermometer.

Pro Tip: If you don’t have a candy thermometer, you can check the soft-ball stage by dropping a small amount of the fudge mixture into a glass of cold water. If it forms a soft ball that can be squished between your fingers, it’s ready.

4. Add Butter and Vanilla

Once your fudge reaches the soft-ball stage, remove it from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract. The butter adds extra smoothness, and the vanilla gives it that warm, familiar flavor.

5. Beat the Fudge

Now comes the fun part—beating the fudge! Let the mixture cool for about 5 minutes, then stir it vigorously with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula. This helps create the smooth, creamy texture that makes the fudge so irresistible.

Continue stirring until the fudge starts to thicken and lose its shine. This can take anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes. It should still be spreadable but should hold its shape when you spoon it out.

6. Spread in a Baking Pan

Once the fudge is thickened, pour it into your prepared 9×9-inch baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, smoothing out the top. If you like, you can press it down lightly to ensure it’s nice and compact.

7. Let It Set

Let the fudge cool at room temperature for about 1 hour. If you’re in a hurry, you can place it in the refrigerator to speed up the process. Once the fudge has set and is firm to the touch, you can slice it into small squares or rectangles for serving.

Variations for Old-Fashioned Fudge

This classic fudge recipe can be easily adapted to suit your taste. Here are a few variations you can try:

• Add Nuts: Fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds into the fudge before spreading it in the pan for added crunch.
• Marshmallow Swirl: For a fluffy twist, swirl in mini marshmallows just before setting the fudge in the pan.
• Peanut Butter Fudge: Swirl in some smooth peanut butter into the fudge mixture after it has reached the soft-ball stage for a delicious peanut butter and chocolate combo.
• Mint Fudge: Add a few drops of peppermint extract for a refreshing minty flavor.
• Swirl with Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce on top of the fudge before it sets for a salted caramel variation.

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Fudge

Old-Fashioned Fudge is delicious on its own, but you can also use it in several different ways:

• Serve as a Dessert: Enjoy it on its own for a simple and sweet treat.
• Add to a Dessert Platter: Add small squares of fudge to a dessert platter alongside cookies, brownies, and other sweets for a festive touch.
• In Gift Baskets: Package the fudge in gift boxes or baskets with other homemade goodies like cookies or truffles.
• Pair with Ice Cream: Top a bowl of vanilla ice cream with small chunks of fudge for a decadent dessert.

Storing Old-Fashioned Fudge

• Room Temperature: Store your fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Refrigeration: If you want to extend its shelf life, you can store the fudge in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze fudge! Cut it into squares and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. The fudge will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Let it come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition (Approximate per 1 square serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	120 kcal
Fat	6 g
Carbohydrates	18 g
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	16 g
Protein	1 g

Conclusion

Old-Fashioned Fudge is the epitome of comfort food. Whether you’re making it for the holidays, gifting it to loved ones, or enjoying it for yourself, this creamy, rich treat never goes out of style. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a homemade fudge that rivals the best candy shops. Plus, it’s so customizable—you can easily add your favorite mix-ins to make it your own!