Decadent Chocolate Fudge

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 15 min
🍽 Serves: 16
★★★★★
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If you're on the hunt for a foolproof chocolate fudge recipe that strikes the perfect balance between rich and creamy, look no further. This decadent chocolate fudge is a classic treat that promises to satisfy your sweet tooth with its melt-in-your-mouth texture and intense chocolate flavor.

Ingredients for Decadent Chocolate Fudge

Sugar is the sweet backbone of this fudge, creating a smooth, creamy base.

Unsweetened cocoa powder adds rich chocolate depth, making the fudge decadently chocolaty.

Whole milk provides creaminess, ensuring the fudge is luscious and smooth.

Unsalted butter adds richness and a silky texture, enhancing the overall flavor.

Vanilla extract introduces a subtle aroma and sweetness, balancing the chocolate.

Salt enhances all the other flavors, giving the fudge a more complex taste.

Walnuts (optional) offer a delightful crunch, contrasting with the smooth fudge.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a candy thermometer to ensure you reach the perfect temperature; this is crucial for achieving the right texture.
  • If you don't have parchment paper, foil can work in a pinch, but remember to grease it lightly.
  • For a creamier texture, try adding a tablespoon of corn syrup during the boiling stage.

Serving Suggestions

This fudge pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. It's also delightful alongside fresh berries, which add a bright, fruity contrast to the rich chocolate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes, but whole milk is recommended for the creamiest texture.
How do I store the fudge?
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Can I freeze fudge?
Absolutely! Wrap pieces individually and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.

Decadent Chocolate Fudge Recipe Walkthrough

First, get your square baking dish ready by lining it with parchment paper. Make sure the edges overhang a bit — this will make it easy to lift the fudge out later. Trust me, you'll thank yourself for this step when you're ready to cut the fudge.

Next, in a medium saucepan, mix together the sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Now, stir in the milk until everything is smooth and well combined.

Set the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a soft boil. Keep stirring constantly to prevent it from sticking or burning. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer without stirring until it reaches 234°F on a candy thermometer. This is the sweet spot for perfect fudge texture.

Remove the pan from the heat and add the butter and vanilla extract. Resist the urge to stir — just let it be for about 5 minutes.

After it's slightly cooled, take a sturdy wooden spoon and beat the mixture vigorously. You'll notice it starts to lose its shine and thicken. If you're adding walnuts, gently fold them in now.

Quickly pour the fudge into your prepared dish and spread it evenly. Let it cool down at room temperature until it's set, which usually takes a couple of hours.

Once the fudge is firm, use the parchment paper edges to lift it out of the dish and onto a cutting board. Cut it into bite-sized pieces, and there you have it — delicious homemade fudge ready to enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Uses simple pantry staples — no fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients.
  • Perfectly creamy with just the right amount of sweetness and a deep chocolate flavor.
  • Quick and easy to make, ideal for gifting or a sweet treat at home.
  • Customizable with optional walnuts for added texture and flavor.

Ingredients

2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup whole milk
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Prepare a square baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, allowing the edges to overhang for easy removal.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir in the milk until smooth.
3. Over medium heat, bring the mixture to a soft boil, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and continue to simmer without stirring until the mixture reaches 234°F on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and add butter and vanilla extract, but do not stir. Let it cool for 5 minutes.
5. Once slightly cool, beat the mixture vigorously with a wooden spoon until it begins to lose its gloss and thickens. If using, fold in the chopped walnuts.
6. Quickly pour the fudge into the prepared dish, spreading evenly. Let it cool at room temperature until set.
7. Once set, lift the fudge out of the dish using parchment paper edges and cut into pieces.

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