Description
Mom’s classic fudge recipe offers a rich, creamy homemade treat made from simple ingredients like sugar, cocoa, milk, butter, and vanilla. This easy stovetop fudge yields 36 pieces of decadent, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate goodness, perfect for sharing or gifting.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a heavy saucepan, mix together the granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt until evenly blended.
- Add Milk and Heat: Pour in the whole milk and stir to combine. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring occasionally.
- Boil to Soft Ball Stage: Stop stirring and allow the mixture to boil undisturbed until it reaches 234°F, also known as the soft ball stage, which is crucial for proper fudge texture.
- Add Butter and Vanilla, Cool: Remove the saucepan from heat and add the unsalted butter and vanilla extract. Let the mixture cool without stirring until it reaches 110°F.
- Beat Mixture: Using a wooden spoon, beat the mixture vigorously until it thickens and loses its glossy shine, typically taking about 7-10 minutes.
- Pour and Set: Pour the thickened fudge into a buttered 8×8-inch pan, spreading it evenly. Let it sit at room temperature until fully set, then cut into 36 squares.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer to accurately monitor temperature for best results.
- Do not stir the mixture once it reaches the boiling point to prevent grainy fudge.
- Be patient when beating—this step is key to achieving the perfect creamy texture.
- Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
