Do you have a sweet tooth that craves a classic treat? You’re in for a delightful indulgence with our Old-Fashioned Hard Fudge recipe. This rich and decadent fudge is a timeless favorite that’s perfect for satisfying your cravings or gifting to friends and family. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a batch of this irresistible fudge that will have everyone coming back for more.
**Old-Fashioned Hard Fudge**
**Ingredients:**
– 3 cups granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup butter
– 2/3 cup evaporated milk
– 1 1/2 cups marshmallow cream
– 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Your Pan:** Start by lining a 9×9 inch pan with foil and lightly grease it with butter to prevent the fudge from sticking.
2. **Combine Ingredients:** In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, butter, and evaporated milk. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a rolling boil, making sure the sugar is completely dissolved.
3. **Cook to Soft-Ball Stage:** Using a candy thermometer, continue cooking the mixture until it reaches the soft-ball stage, which is around 234-240°F (112-115°C). This step is crucial for achieving the right consistency in your fudge.
4. **Add Marshmallow Cream and Chocolate:** Once the mixture has reached the soft-ball stage, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the marshmallow cream, chocolate chips, chopped nuts (if using), and vanilla extract. Mix well until the chocolate chips have melted completely.
5. **Pour into Pan:** Quickly pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Let it cool at room temperature until it sets and hardens.
6. **Cut and Serve:** Once the fudge has cooled and hardened, lift it out of the pan using the foil and place it on a cutting board. Cut it into squares of your desired size using a sharp knife. Serve and enjoy the rich flavor of this homemade Old-Fashioned Hard Fudge.
This delightful Old-Fashioned Hard Fudge recipe is sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Whether you’re treating yourself to a sweet indulgence or sharing it with loved ones, this classic fudge is a crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style. Experiment with different nuts or add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a gourmet touch. Enjoy the nostalgic charm of homemade fudge with this easy and delicious recipe!