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Old-Fashioned Chocolate Fudge

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This old-fashioned chocolate fudge is rich, creamy, and deeply chocolatey with a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Made the classic way on the stovetop with simple ingredients—just like Grandma used to make.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups granulated sugar
  • 2/3 cup unsweetened Dutch-processed cocoa
  • 1/8 tsp salt (or 1/4 tsp if using unsalted butter)
  • 1½ cups whole milk
  • 1/4 cup salted butter, room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with buttered parchment paper.
  2. In a heavy saucepan, whisk together sugar, cocoa, and salt. Stir in milk using a wooden spoon until fully incorporated.
  3. Place over medium heat and stir constantly until the mixture reaches a strong boil (about 15 minutes).
  4. Reduce heat to low-medium and continue cooking without stirring until the mixture reaches 234°F (112°C) on a candy thermometer (about 30 minutes).
  5. Remove from heat and add butter and vanilla extract. Do not stir. Let cool undisturbed to 110°F (43°C), about 30 minutes.
  6. Once cooled, beat the mixture vigorously with a wooden spoon until it thickens and starts to lose its gloss (6–8 minutes).
  7. Quickly spread into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Let cool completely at room temperature, ideally overnight.
  8. Once set, cut into squares. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, refrigerated for 3–4 weeks, or frozen for up to 3 months.

Notes

  • Use a candy thermometer for accurate temperature control.
  • Do not stir after the mixture begins to simmer—this prevents crystallization and grainy texture.
  • For softer fudge, slightly reduce cooking time but ensure it reaches 234°F.
  • For a festive variation, stir in chopped nuts or swirl in a bit of peanut butter before setting.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yumfoodusa.com/old-fashioned-chocolate-fudge/