Old Fashioned Fudge – Don’t Lose This Classic Recipe
Old Fashioned Fudge – Don’t Lose This Classic Recipe
There’s something magical about fudge. One bite can take you back to a cozy kitchen filled with the smell of melting chocolate and the laughter of family gathered around. Old Fashioned Fudge – Don’t Lose This is exactly that kind of recipe: simple, quick, and wonderfully indulgent. It’s the kind of dessert that has been passed down from generation to generation, holding onto the warmth and memories of those who made it long before us.
I remember the first time I tried a batch of this fudge. The sugar and cocoa started sizzling on the stovetop, the butter melted into a glossy, chocolatey mixture, and the aroma alone was enough to make my mouth water. Watching it bubble and thicken was mesmerizing — it’s almost like magic happening right in your kitchen. By the time I added the vanilla and poured it into a buttered dish, the house smelled like pure nostalgia. One bite and it was impossible to resist.
What’s so wonderful about this fudge is its simplicity. No candy thermometers, no complicated steps — just a few pantry staples and a little patience. In less than 20 minutes, you can create a dessert that’s rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering, a last-minute gift, or just to satisfy a chocolate craving, this recipe never fails to impress.
This fudge is also highly customizable. You can leave it plain for classic chocolate goodness, or add chopped nuts to bring a little crunch to the silky texture. Either way, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles and evoke memories of cozy kitchens, warm hearts, and sweet moments shared with loved ones.
Old Fashioned Fudge – Don’t Lose This
Ingredients:
2 cups sugar
4 Tablespoons Hershey’s cocoa
1 stick of salted butter
5 ounce can of Carnation Evaporated Milk
1 teaspoon of vanilla
nuts are optional
Instructions:
Mix sugar and cocoa in a saucepan, then add a stick of butter and the can of evaporated milk, and stir until the mixture starts boiling.
Stir continuously for 7 minutes, then remove from heat and add vanilla, then stir the mix continuously for 3 minutes, then pour into a buttered baking dish to set.
Great fudge in less than 20 minutes!
Why This Fudge Stands Out
This fudge has a charm all its own. It’s rich, chocolatey, and melts in your mouth without being overly complicated. Unlike some modern candy recipes, it doesn’t rely on fancy ingredients or tools. Everything you need is probably already in your pantry: sugar, cocoa, butter, and evaporated milk.
The use of evaporated milk gives this fudge its signature creamy texture. It thickens beautifully during cooking, ensuring that each bite is smooth and indulgent. The simple addition of vanilla enhances the chocolate flavor, making the fudge taste richer and more complex than the ingredients might suggest.
Because it sets quickly, this fudge is perfect for anyone who wants homemade candy without spending hours in the kitchen. And while it’s simple, it still has that nostalgic, old-fashioned quality that makes it feel like a real treat — the kind of recipe your grandma would insist you write down and keep forever.
Tips for Perfect Old-Fashioned Fudge
1. Stir continuously while boiling.
Fudge can burn or seize if left unattended. Constant stirring ensures even cooking and prevents scorching.
2. Butter your baking dish generously.
This prevents sticking and makes removing the fudge easy once it’s set.
3. Don’t rush the cooling stage.
Allow the fudge to set completely before cutting. It may seem impatient to taste it immediately, but a fully set fudge will slice cleanly and have that perfect creamy texture.
4. Add mix-ins if desired.
Chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, are optional but add a delightful crunch and extra flavor to the creamy chocolate base.
5. Use real ingredients.
Stick to real butter and high-quality cocoa. It makes a noticeable difference in taste and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Old-fashioned fudge is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a dessert at holiday gatherings, cut it into small squares for party trays, or wrap it in wax paper for homemade gifts. It pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or even a glass of cold milk.
For a special touch, sprinkle a few extra chopped nuts on top while the fudge is still warm, or drizzle a little white chocolate over it for contrast. These small touches can elevate your fudge and make it look like it came straight from a candy shop.
Storage Tips
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Room Temperature: Keep the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
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Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to 3 weeks; let it sit at room temperature before serving for the best texture.
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Freezing: Wrap pieces in wax paper and place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this fudge without nuts?
Yes! Nuts are completely optional. The fudge is creamy and delicious on its own.
Q2: Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?
Yes, but you may want to add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.
Q3: Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely. Just use a larger saucepan and a larger baking dish. Cooking times remain roughly the same.
Q4: Why did my fudge turn grainy?
Graininess can happen if the sugar crystallizes during cooking. Continuous stirring and careful pouring into a buttered dish help prevent this.
