Welcome to the world of traditional creamy fudge, where indulgence meets simplicity. This recipe is a perfect blend of rich flavors and creamy textures, making it a must-try for any dessert lover. Whether youβre a seasoned cook or a beginner, this fudge will quickly become a favorite treat in your home.
Sugar: The backbone of any fudge, providing sweetness and structure. Granulated sugar works best for a smooth texture.
Heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess, creating that luxurious mouthfeel fudge is known for. It's essential for the silky texture.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives depth and a subtle buttery note. This ingredient also contributes to the fudge's smoothness.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance out the sweetness and enhance the flavors of the chocolate and vanilla.
Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and a hint of sweetness, complementing the chocolate perfectly.
Chocolate chips: The star of the show, providing that deep, chocolatey flavor that defines fudge. Semi-sweet is ideal to avoid overpowering sweetness.
Nuts (optional): Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, but feel free to omit them if you prefer a smoother texture.
This creamy fudge pairs wonderfully with a tall glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. For a festive touch, sprinkle a bit of sea salt on top before it sets for an irresistible sweet-salty flavor combination.
Start by preparing an 8x8 inch square baking dish. Grease it lightly so your fudge doesnβt stick when it's time to serve. You can use a bit of butter or cooking spray for this.
In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of sugar, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of butter, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Set over medium heat and stir continuously. This step is crucial to prevent the mixture from burning. Once it reaches a boil, let it continue boiling for 5 minutes, still stirring all the while.
After 5 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat. Quickly add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stir until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth. If you're adding nuts, fold them in now.
Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Let it cool to room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator to set completely. Once firm, cut into squares and enjoy your homemade creamy fudge!