Indulge your sweet tooth with a classic treat that never goes out of style: Old Fashioned Hershey's Cocoa Fudge! This rich and creamy fudge is not only a nostalgic nod to childhood but also a quick and easy dessert that can be whipped up in just 15 minutes. Imagine biting into a piece of velvety chocolate goodness, perfectly balanced with a hint of vanilla and the crunch of nuts—if you choose to add them! Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply craving a sweet snack, this fudge recipe is sure to impress. Ready to learn how to make this delightful confection? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 36 pieces
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Gather all the ingredients: 2 cups granulated sugar, 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 cup milk, 1/4 cup unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 cup chopped nuts (if using).
- Prepare a 9x9-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly with butter or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal of the fudge later.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and unsweetened cocoa powder. Stir them together to ensure they are well mixed.
- Pour in the milk and add the unsalted butter to the saucepan. Place the saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir the mixture continuously as it heats up, making sure to dissolve the sugar and cocoa completely. Continue stirring until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Once boiling, stop stirring and allow the mixture to boil for exactly 4-5 minutes. Use a candy thermometer to check the temperature; it should reach about 234°F (112°C), which is the soft-ball stage.
- After reaching the desired temperature, remove the saucepan from the heat. Let it sit for a minute without stirring to cool slightly.
- After a minute, add the vanilla extract and chopped nuts (if using) to the mixture. Stir well to combine.
- Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for about 2 hours, or until it is set and firm.
- Once cooled, cut the fudge into 36 pieces and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.
Tips
- Measure Carefully: Precision is key in candy making, so be sure to measure your ingredients accurately to achieve the perfect texture.
- Use a Candy Thermometer: To ensure your fudge reaches the ideal soft-ball stage (234°F or 112°C), invest in a candy thermometer. This will help you avoid undercooking or overcooking your fudge.
- Stir Consistently: While heating the mixture, stir continuously until it reaches a boil. This helps dissolve the sugar and cocoa evenly, preventing any graininess in your fudge.
- Cool Time is Crucial: Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for about 2 hours to set properly. Avoid refrigerating it, as this can alter the texture.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to customize your fudge by adding different types of nuts, chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a gourmet touch.
- Store Properly: Keep any leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its deliciousness for days to come.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 90kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 10mg
