Classic Old Fashioned Fudge Recipe: Creamy & Sweet Nostalgia

Sweet memories of grandma’s kitchen come flooding back with this old fashioned fudge that melts smoothly on your tongue.

Creamy chocolate squares whisper nostalgic stories from bygone baking days.

Generations have cherished this simple yet magical dessert passed down through family cookbooks.

Rich cocoa and sugar blend into a velvety treat that connects us with treasured culinary traditions.

Wooden spoons and copper pots create delicious alchemy in just minutes.

Cool countertops await the glossy mixture that will soon set into perfect squares.

Each bite promises pure comfort and a delightful journey through classic American dessert history.

Roll up your sleeves and prepare to create something wonderfully delectable that will make everyone smile.

Why Old Fashioned Fudge Is Sweet, Smooth, And Classic

• Minimal Effort Magic: Crafting this fudge requires basic kitchen skills and straightforward steps, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Quick Crowd-Pleaser: With simple ingredients and uncomplicated techniques, this recipe delivers delicious results that will impress family and friends.
• Customizable Comfort: Easily adapt the recipe by adding nuts or experimenting with different chocolate variations to suit personal taste preferences.
• Make-Ahead Marvel: Perfect for preparing in advance, this fudge stores beautifully and remains a delightful treat for spontaneous gatherings or sweet cravings.

What You’ll Need For Old Fashioned Fudge

• Sugar: The primary sweetener that provides the foundational flavor and helps create the smooth fudge texture.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
• Evaporated Milk: Contributes to the smooth, velvety texture and helps prevent sugar crystallization.

• Chocolate Chips: The main flavor component that transforms the mixture into delicious chocolate fudge.
• Marshmallow Creme: Adds extra smoothness and helps create a soft, creamy texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its warm, sweet notes.

• Salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the chocolate flavor.
• Nuts (Optional): Provides a crunchy texture and additional nutty flavor to the fudge.
• Parchment Paper: Helps with easy removal and clean cutting of the finished fudge.

How To Make Old Fashioned Fudge At Home

Step 1: Prepare Baking Vessel

Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting excess hang over sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the pan sides to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Sugary Base

• Sugar
• Butter
• Evaporated milk

Stir constantly over medium heat until the mixture reaches a rolling boil.

Step 3: Monitor Temperature Precisely

Attach a candy thermometer to the saucepan’s side. Continue cooking without stirring, maintaining a steady boil until the temperature hits exactly 234°F (soft-ball stage).

Step 4: Introduce Chocolate

Remove saucepan from heat immediately. Whisk in chocolate chips vigorously, stirring until they completely melt and create a smooth, glossy consistency.

Step 5: Blend Creamy Elements

• Marshmallow creme
• Vanilla extract

Mix thoroughly to ensure no streaks remain and achieve a uniform texture.

Step 6: Enhance Flavor Profile

Sprinkle salt into the mixture, stirring to distribute evenly and elevate the overall taste.

Step 7: Optional Nutty Addition

If desired, gently fold nuts into the fudge, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture.

Step 8: Transfer to Baking Pan

Pour the molten fudge into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread evenly and eliminate any air pockets.

Step 9: Allow Cooling

Let the fudge cool at room temperature for approximately 2 hours, or until it sets completely and reaches a firm, slice-able consistency.

Step 10: Slice and Serve

Lift the fudge out of the pan using parchment paper overhang. Transfer to a cutting board and slice into precise, uniform squares.

Helpful Tips For Old Fashioned Fudge

• Prep Pan Perfectly: Use parchment paper with overhanging edges to make removing fudge effortless and prevent sticking.
• Master Temperature Control: Watch candy thermometer closely, hitting exactly 234°F ensures perfect soft-ball stage for creamy fudge texture.
• Whisk with Precision: Stir chocolate chips vigorously and continuously to create smooth, glossy consistency without lumps.
• Distribute Add-Ins Evenly: Gently fold nuts throughout mixture to guarantee balanced flavor in every delectable bite.
• Cool Completely: Let fudge rest at room temperature for two hours, allowing it to set firmly before cutting into clean, uniform squares.

Flavor Twists For Old Fashioned Fudge

• Nutty Chocolate Crunch: Replace marshmallow creme with chopped almonds or pecans, adding extra crunch and nutty depth to the classic fudge recipe.
• Salted Caramel Chocolate: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top and sprinkle flaky sea salt for a gourmet flavor enhancement.
• Dairy-Free Chocolate Alternative: Swap evaporated milk with coconut milk and use dairy-free chocolate chips to create a vegan-friendly version.
• Espresso Chocolate Boost: Mix in instant espresso powder or add a shot of strong coffee to intensify the chocolate's rich flavor profile.

What Goes Great With Old Fashioned Fudge

• Pair with Creamy Beverage Harmony: Rich, velvety hot chocolate or cappuccino beautifully complements the deep chocolate notes of the fudge, balancing its intense sweetness with warm, smooth undertones.
• Elevate with Wine Elegance: Select a sweet port wine or dessert Moscato, whose fruity and caramel-like characteristics enhance the fudge's luxurious chocolate profile and provide a sophisticated tasting experience.
• Match with Nutty Companions: Serve alongside roasted almonds or pecan clusters, creating a delightful textural contrast that highlights the fudge's rich, smooth consistency and adds delightful crunch between bites.

How To Store Old Fashioned Fudge The Right Way

• Store fudge in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers, keeping it fresh for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator. Seal tightly to prevent moisture absorption.
• Wrap individual fudge pieces in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Keep fudge in a cool, dry place inside a sealed container. Consume within 1 week for optimal taste and texture. Avoid direct sunlight or warm areas.
• Place wax paper or parchment paper between fudge pieces to maintain individual squares and prevent them from clumping together during storage.

FAQs About Old Fashioned Fudge

• Can I use a different type of chocolate for this fudge?

Yes, you can substitute chocolate chips with chopped chocolate bars or different chocolate varieties like milk or dark chocolate to customize the flavor.

• How do I prevent sugar crystallization during cooking?

Avoid stirring once the mixture reaches a boil and use a clean, dry candy thermometer to maintain accurate temperature tracking and prevent sugar crystals from forming.

• What's the best way to get smooth, creamy fudge?

Consistently maintain the exact temperature of 234°F, whisk vigorously when adding chocolate chips, and ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated without overmixing.

• Is a candy thermometer really necessary for this recipe?

Absolutely. A candy thermometer is crucial for achieving the precise soft-ball stage, which ensures the perfect fudge texture and prevents grainy or too-soft results.

Old Fashioned Fudge Recipe

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4.7 from 31 reviews

• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Rich chocolate Old Fashioned Fudge invites sweet memories of grandma’s kitchen. Creamy, melt-in-your-mouth squares deliver pure comfort that connect you with cherished culinary traditions.

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Ingredients

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Chocolate and Base Ingredients:

• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter
• 2/3 cup evaporated milk
• 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips

Flavoring and Enhancers:

• 1 jar (7 oz) marshmallow creme
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Additional Ingredients:

• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

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Instructions

1. Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess to hang over the edges for easy removal, and lightly grease the sides.
2. Combine sugar, butter, and evaporated milk in a heavy-bottomed saucepan, stirring constantly over medium heat until the mixture reaches a rolling boil.
3. Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan and continue cooking without stirring, maintaining a steady boil until the temperature hits exactly 234°F (soft-ball stage).
4. Remove the saucepan from heat immediately and quickly whisk in chocolate chips, stirring vigorously until they completely melt and create a smooth, glossy consistency.
5. Incorporate marshmallow creme and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to ensure no streaks remain and the texture is uniform.
6. Sprinkle salt into the mixture, stirring to distribute evenly and enhance the overall flavor profile.
7. If using nuts, fold them gently into the fudge, ensuring they are well-distributed throughout the mixture.
8. Pour the molten fudge into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and eliminate any air pockets.
9. Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for approximately 2 hours, or until it sets completely and reaches a firm, slice-able consistency.
10. Lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang, transfer to a cutting board, and slice into precise, uniform squares.

Notes

• Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent scorching and ensure even heat distribution during the caramelization process.
• Monitor the candy thermometer closely, as even a few degrees can drastically change the fudge’s texture from creamy to grainy or hard.
• Avoid stirring once the mixture reaches a boil to prevent sugar crystallization, which can make the fudge gritty instead of smooth.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute evaporated milk with coconut milk and use dairy-free chocolate chips and butter alternatives.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 263
• Sugar: 28 g
• Sodium: 38 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 37 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg