There's something undeniably nostalgic about old-fashioned creamy fudge. This recipe brings together rich chocolate and dreamy marshmallow creme into a classic treat that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're making it for a festive gathering or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this fudge is bound to impress.
Sugar is the backbone of any fudge, providing sweetness and structure. Here, it combines with other ingredients to create that classic fudge texture. Butter adds richness and flavor, making each bite velvety smooth. Evaporated milk lends creaminess without the extra water content of regular milk, ensuring the fudge sets properly.
Semisweet chocolate chips deliver the deep chocolate flavor that’s essential for this fudge, while marshmallow creme helps achieve the perfect consistency, preventing crystallization and keeping the fudge soft. Vanilla extract enhances the chocolate flavor, adding a subtle warmth. Finally, chopped walnuts are optional but offer a pleasant contrast if you enjoy a bit of crunch in your fudge.
Old-fashioned creamy fudge pairs wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea. For a festive touch, serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a hot fudge sundae. Consider adding it to a dessert platter with fresh berries and assorted nuts for a delightful contrast.
Start by greasing an 8-inch square baking pan with butter, or if you prefer an easier cleanup, line it with parchment paper. This will ensure the fudge doesn’t stick and is easy to remove once set.
In a medium saucepan, add the sugar, butter, and evaporated milk. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Once it reaches a boil, continue cooking for 4-5 minutes. If you have a candy thermometer, aim for a soft-ball stage, around 234°F.
Once you've reached the desired temperature, remove the saucepan from the heat. Immediately stir in the chocolate chips until they are completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Next, add the marshmallow creme and vanilla extract, stirring until everything is well combined.
If you're adding walnuts, now’s the time to fold them into the mixture. Once mixed, pour the fudge into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Let it cool at room temperature for about 3-4 hours until it's fully set.
Once set, cut the fudge into squares and serve. Enjoy every creamy, chocolatey bite!