There's something magical about a homemade fudge recipe that takes you back in time—especially when it's Old Fashioned Fudge. This simple, rich, and velvety treat brings all the nostalgia of childhood with every melt-in-your-mouth bite. If you're craving a sweet, indulgent dessert that's both quick and easy to make, this classic fudge recipe is a must-try. The perfect blend of Hershey’s cocoa, butter, and Carnation evaporated milk creates a fudge that’s decadent yet straightforward enough for even beginners to master.
Whether you're making it for the holidays, a family gathering, or simply as a personal treat, this recipe is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. Best of all, it only requires a handful of ingredients and about 15 minutes of your time. Ready to satisfy your sweet tooth? Let’s dive in!
Ingredients: The Essentials for Perfect Fudge
4 Tablespoons Hershey’s Cocoa
Hershey’s cocoa is the key to giving this fudge its rich, chocolatey flavor. The cocoa powder adds depth to the fudge without making it too sweet, providing a nice balance with the other ingredients. The smooth cocoa flavor is what makes this treat truly irresistible.
1 Stick of Salted Butter
Butter is the foundation for the smooth, creamy texture of the fudge. The salted butter adds a slight savory contrast to the sweetness of the fudge, enhancing the overall flavor profile. It's a small addition, but it makes a big difference!
5 Ounce Can of Carnation Evaporated Milk
Evaporated milk is a game changer when it comes to fudge recipes. It creates a dense, rich consistency that ensures your fudge sets perfectly without being too hard or too soft. This creamy ingredient binds everything together and gives the fudge that melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Old Fashioned Fudge
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your stove to medium heat. Make sure you have all your ingredients ready and within reach: cocoa powder, butter, and evaporated milk. This will make the process quick and smooth.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir it occasionally to prevent it from browning. Once it's completely melted, you’re ready for the next step.
Step 3: Add Cocoa and Evaporated Milk
Next, add the Hershey’s cocoa into the melted butter, followed by the Carnation evaporated milk. Stir constantly to combine the ingredients. Keep stirring to avoid any clumps, ensuring a silky-smooth mixture.
Step 4: Bring to a Boil
Allow the mixture to come to a boil, stirring occasionally. This will take a minute or two, and you'll notice the mixture starting to thicken. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Stir regularly to keep it from sticking or burning on the bottom.
Step 5: Pour and Set
After simmering for 5 minutes, remove the fudge mixture from the heat. Carefully pour the fudge into a greased pan. You can use a 9x9-inch square pan or any similar-sized dish. Let the fudge cool completely at room temperature. This will allow it to set and firm up to the perfect consistency.
Step 6: Cut and Enjoy
Once the fudge has cooled and set (approximately 1 to 2 hours), cut it into squares. You should get about 16 squares from this batch. Enjoy your homemade fudge, and watch it disappear in no time!
Why This Old Fashioned Fudge Recipe Is Loved
This Old Fashioned Fudge is a favorite because it strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and flavor. The ingredients are simple yet packed with flavor, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers alike. The best part? It's ready in just 15 minutes—perfect for last-minute dessert cravings or impromptu gatherings.
What makes this fudge stand out is its smooth texture and rich chocolate flavor. The salted butter creates a creamy base, while the cocoa powder provides the depth and richness you crave. It's a fudge that doesn't require any fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients—just pantry staples that come together to create a truly delectable treat.
Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Fudge
Stir Constantly – While the mixture is heating up, make sure to stir constantly. This ensures the fudge doesn’t scorch or develop any lumps.
Don't Rush the Cooling Process – Be patient and allow the fudge to cool completely before cutting it. If you cut it too soon, it might not hold together properly.
Grease Your Pan – Grease your pan well before pouring in the fudge mixture. This will make it much easier to remove the fudge once it’s set.
Flavor Variations – For a fun twist, try adding a handful of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before it sets for an added crunch and depth of flavor.
Serving Suggestions: How to Enjoy Your Fudge
While this fudge is perfect on its own, here are a few serving suggestions to elevate the experience:
- Pair with a cup of coffee for the ultimate afternoon indulgence.
- Top with whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate syrup for a decadent dessert.
- Serve alongside vanilla ice cream for an irresistible sundae-style treat.
In Conclusion: A Fudge Recipe You'll Return To Again and Again
This Old Fashioned Fudge recipe is as simple as it is delicious. With just a handful of ingredients, you can make a rich, creamy treat that rivals any store-bought fudge. The combination of cocoa, butter, and evaporated milk creates the perfect texture and flavor balance, making it a family favorite for years to come. Whether you're new to fudge-making or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it today, and you’ll see why this classic fudge is impossible to resist!