Old Fashioned Fudge – A Classic Treat!

Introduction
Old-fashioned fudge is a timeless dessert that has been loved for generations. This classic treat brings back fond memories of family gatherings, holiday celebrations, and indulgent moments. With its rich, creamy texture and deep chocolate flavor, old-fashioned fudge is a recipe worth preserving. It’s perfect for gifting, sharing, or simply savoring with loved ones. This recipe ensures the perfect batch in under 20 minutes, capturing the essence of traditional homemade fudge.

Ingredients
2 cups sugar
4 tablespoons Hershey’s cocoa
1 stick (1/2 cup) salted butter
5 ounces Carnation Evaporated Milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
Instructions
Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients and prepare a buttered baking dish.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and cocoa, stirring until evenly mixed.
Add Butter and Milk: Add the butter and evaporated milk to the saucepan, stirring gently to mix with the dry ingredients.
Bring to a Boil: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously as the mixture begins to warm up. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat slightly and continue stirring.
Cook and Stir: Allow the mixture to boil gently for 7 minutes, stirring continuously to prevent sticking.
Remove from Heat and Add Vanilla: After 7 minutes, remove the pan from heat. Add the vanilla extract, and if using, fold in the chopped nuts.

Stir to Thicken: Stir the mixture continuously for about 3 minutes to help it cool slightly and begin setting.
Pour and Set: Pour the fudge mixture into the buttered baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Let it Set: Allow the fudge to cool completely in the dish. Once it has set, cut it into squares and enjoy.
Method
The method for making old-fashioned fudge involves carefully timing each step to ensure the perfect consistency. This fudge requires continuous stirring to achieve a smooth, creamy texture, preventing any graininess in the final product. Boiling for precisely 7 minutes is essential, as under- or over-cooking can impact the fudge’s texture and setting.

History
Fudge is believed to have originated in the United States in the late 19th century. The first documented batch of fudge was made in 1886, and it quickly became popular across the country. Traditionally, fudge was a labor-intensive process, often requiring precise timing and careful temperature control. This old-fashioned fudge recipe is inspired by those early versions, which used simple ingredients like sugar, cocoa, and butter to create a luxurious treat.

Benefits
While fudge is undeniably a sweet indulgence, it does offer a few simple pleasures and benefits:

Comfort Food: The creamy, rich flavor of fudge can provide a comforting and satisfying treat.
Simple Ingredients: Made from basic pantry ingredients, this fudge is easy to prepare without artificial additives.
Rich in Antioxidants: The cocoa used in fudge contains antioxidants that can have positive effects on heart health when consumed in moderation.
Source of Energy: Fudge provides a quick energy boost due to its sugar content, making it a great treat to enjoy in small portions.
Formation
This fudge forms by carefully boiling sugar and cocoa with butter and evaporated milk to create a smooth, glossy mixture. The consistency thickens as it cools, allowing the fudge to set into firm, sliceable squares. The final texture is soft but slightly crumbly, a classic hallmark of old-fashioned fudge.

Nutrition
Here’s a rough estimate of the nutrition per square (based on a recipe yielding approximately 16 squares):

Calories: ~120 kcal
Fat: 5 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Protein: 1 g
Sugar: 17 g
Fiber: 1 g
Note: Nutritional values may vary slightly based on portion size and added ingredients.

Conclusion
Old-fashioned fudge is a classic for a reason: it’s simple, delicious, and loved by many. Whether you’re making it for a holiday or as a thoughtful homemade gift, this fudge recipe never disappoints. Its rich chocolate flavor, smooth texture, and nostalgia make it a true comfort dessert.

Fudge Lovers
Fudge is loved by dessert enthusiasts around the world, especially those who appreciate rich and indulgent flavors. It’s a treat that brings families together, sparking joy in both the making and the sharing of each piece.

Final Thoughts
Making old-fashioned fudge is not just about the end result; it’s about the process. From mixing to stirring, each step brings a bit of tradition and warmth into your kitchen. So, save this recipe and pass it down—it’s a classic dessert worth keeping in the family!