What is chocolate fudge?

Chocolate fudge is a dense, creamy sweet treat made primarily from sugar, butter, milk or cream, and chocolate. It has a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture achieved by cooking the mixture to the soft-ball stage (around 234-240°F) and beating it as it cools to create tiny sugar crystals. Originating in the late 1800s in the US, it's popular for holidays and gifts due to its rich flavor and easy slicing. Variations include nuts, marshmallows, or flavors like peanut butter, but classic versions use semi-sweet or milk chocolate. One 2-inch square typically packs about 100 calories, making it indulgent in small portions. It's distinct from truffles (creamier, chocolate-based) or toffee (harder, buttery). (92 words)

What ingredients do I need for homemade chocolate fudge?

For a basic 9x9-inch pan of chocolate fudge (about 36 pieces), gather: 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate bar), 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk, 1/4 cup unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Optional add-ins: 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for texture. Use high-quality chocolate for best flavor—avoid chips with fillers if possible. Measure precisely for success; too much liquid leads to soft fudge. Line your pan with parchment for easy removal. This simple list yields foolproof results without a candy thermometer. Prep time: 10 minutes; chill time: 2-4 hours. (102 words)

How do you make easy chocolate fudge at home?

Melt 3 cups chocolate chips, 1 can sweetened condensed milk, and 1/4 cup butter in a microwave-safe bowl: heat 30 seconds, stir, repeat until smooth (about 2 minutes total). Stir in 1 tsp vanilla and salt. For nuts, fold in 1 cup now. Spread into a parchment-lined 8x8-inch pan. Refrigerate 2-4 hours until firm, then cut into squares. Stovetop alternative: simmer ingredients in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly for 5-7 minutes. Avoid boiling to prevent graininess. Yields 36 pieces; store airtight at room temp up to 2 weeks. Perfect for beginners—no thermometer needed. (98 words)

How long does homemade chocolate fudge last?

Fresh homemade chocolate fudge stays good at room temperature in an airtight container for 1-2 weeks, thanks to its high sugar content acting as a preservative. In the fridge, it lasts 3-4 weeks without drying out—wrap tightly to avoid absorbing odors. For longer storage, freeze in a single layer on a tray first, then transfer to a freezer bag; it keeps 2-3 months with minimal texture change. Thaw overnight in the fridge. Signs it's gone bad: mold, off smell, or overly hard texture. Pro tip: dust with powdered sugar before freezing to prevent sticking. Always label with dates. (96 words)

Can you freeze chocolate fudge and how?

Yes, chocolate fudge freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Cut into squares first for easy portioning. Place on a parchment-lined tray to flash-freeze for 1-2 hours until solid—this prevents clumping. Transfer to a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container, squeezing out air. Label with date. To thaw, move to the fridge for 4-6 hours or overnight; room temp works but risks sweating. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture. Freezing retains 95% of freshness if done right. Great for holiday prep—make batches ahead. One study notes frozen fudge tastes fresher after a week due to flavor melding. (94 words)

Chocolate Fudge: Old Fashioned Homemade Easy Recipe

Name: Chocolate Fudge
Prep time: 6 h 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 6 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate bar) Provides the rich base and smooth melting for perfect chocolate fudge texture; – 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk Adds creaminess and sweetness without watering down the mixture; essential for easy homemade chocolate fudge recipe; – 1/4 cup unsalted butter Contributes to the silky mouthfeel and helps set the fudge properly; – 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances flavor depth, rounding out the chocolate notes in this old fashioned fudge; – A pinch of salt Balances sweetness and amplifies chocolate taste for a professional finish; – 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans boost texture and nutrition

Description

🍫 Create rich, creamy homemade chocolate fudge that melts in your mouth with this classic old-fashioned recipe that’s been passed down through generations
🎉 Impress your friends and family with this foolproof fudge that requires just a few simple ingredients but delivers professional-quality results every time

Ingredients

– 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate bar) Provides the rich base and smooth melting for perfect chocolate fudge texture

– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk Adds creaminess and sweetness without watering down the mixture; essential for easy homemade chocolate fudge recipe

– 1/4 cup unsalted butter Contributes to the silky mouthfeel and helps set the fudge properly

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances flavor depth, rounding out the chocolate notes in this old fashioned fudge

– A pinch of salt Balances sweetness and amplifies chocolate taste for a professional finish

– 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans boost texture and nutrition

Instructions

1-First Step: Gather and Prep Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhangs for easy lifting. Measure 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk, 1/4 cup unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Chop 1 cup nuts if using. This mise en place keeps things smooth for your easy fudge.

2-Second Step: Melt in Microwave Combine chocolate chips, condensed milk, and butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 30 seconds, stir well, and repeat 3-4 times until fully melted and smooth, about 2 minutes total. Stir every interval to avoid scorching. For stovetop, simmer over low heat, stirring constantly for 5-7 minutes. Vegan? Use plant-based alternatives here.

3-Third Step: Add Flavors Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt until glossy. Fold in nuts gently for even distribution. Taste and adjust salt if needed. This step locks in the classic old fashioned chocolate fudge recipe flavor.

4-Fourth Step: Spread and Chill Pour mixture into prepared pan, spreading evenly with a spatula. Refrigerate for 2-4 hours until firm. For faster set, use freezer for 1 hour. Low-calorie version? Chill longer to firm up lighter ingredients.

5-Final Step: Cut and Serve Lift fudge from pan using parchment. Cut into 2-inch squares with a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean edges. Store as directed below. Serve at room temp for best texture. This 5 minute microwave chocolate fudge adapts easily for dietary needs.

Notes

🌡️ Use a candy thermometer for perfect results – the mixture should reach 234°F (112°C) for the ideal fudge consistency
🥄 Stir constantly while boiling to prevent the sugar from burning and ensure a smooth, creamy texture
⏰ Don’t rush the cooling process – letting the fudge set slowly at room temperature first prevents grainy texture and ensures proper setting

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooling and chilling time: 6 hours
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Candy
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 piece
Calories: 90
Sugar: 13g
Sodium: 35mg
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 2.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 0.5g
Cholesterol: 5mg

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