Rich, creamy, and perfectly sweet, this old-fashioned fudge recipe is a timeless treat. Made with simple ingredients and minimal effort, it delivers a melt-in-your-mouth chocolate experience that’s perfect for holidays, parties, or an everyday indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare with just a handful of ingredients.
• A classic dessert with a rich chocolate flavor.
• Perfect for gifting or serving as a holiday treat.
• Customizable with optional nuts for added texture.
• No need for fancy equipment—just a saucepan and a baking dish.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups sugar
• 4 tablespoons Hershey’s cocoa
• 1 stick of salted butter
• 5-ounce can of Carnation Evaporated Milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• Nuts (optional)

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, mix the sugar and Hershey’s cocoa until combined.
2. Add the stick of salted butter and the evaporated milk to the saucepan.
3. Place the pan over medium heat and stir the mixture constantly until it comes to a boil.
4. Continue stirring while the mixture boils for 7 minutes.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. If using nuts, add them now.
6. Stir the mixture continuously for 3 minutes to ensure a smooth consistency.
7. Pour the fudge into a buttered baking dish, spreading it evenly.
8. Allow the fudge to cool and set before cutting it into squares.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Nutty Fudge: Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for a crunchy twist.
• Marshmallow Swirl: Stir in a handful of mini marshmallows after removing the fudge from heat.
• Dark Chocolate: Use dark cocoa powder for a richer, more intense flavor.
• Peanut Butter Fudge: Swirl in a tablespoon of peanut butter for a creamy peanut flavor.
• Festive Fudge: Top with colorful sprinkles for a holiday-themed treat.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Refrigerator: For longer storage, keep fudge in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezer: Freeze fudge in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: If the fudge becomes too hard, microwave individual pieces for a few seconds to soften.

FAQs

1. Can I make fudge without nuts?

Absolutely! Nuts are optional and can be omitted for a smoother texture.

2. How do I know when the fudge is ready to pour?

The fudge should have a thick, glossy texture after stirring for 3 minutes. It will set properly once cooled.

3. Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?

Yes, but you may want to add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

4. Can I substitute regular milk for evaporated milk?

Evaporated milk is recommended for its creamy consistency, but whole milk can be used as a substitute in a pinch.

5. How do I prevent the fudge from being grainy?

Ensure the sugar is fully dissolved while stirring, and avoid overcooking the mixture.

6. What’s the best way to cut the fudge?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat squares.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish.

8. What if my fudge doesn’t set?

If the fudge doesn’t set, it may have been undercooked. Refrigerating it can help firm it up.

9. Can I add other mix-ins?

Yes, try adding crushed cookies, toffee bits, or dried fruit for creative variations.

10. Is this fudge suitable for gifting?

Absolutely! Wrap individual pieces in parchment paper or place them in a decorative tin for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Conclusion

Old Fashioned Fudge is a classic recipe that never goes out of style. With its rich chocolate flavor and smooth texture, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it plain or with nuts, this homemade fudge is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your guests.

Old Fashioned Fudge Recipe

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• Author: fella
• Prep Time: 5min
• Cook Time: 15min
• Total Time: 20min
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Make creamy, melt-in-your-mouth old-fashioned fudge with this simple recipe. Perfect for holiday treats, gifts, or any occasion when you crave a rich chocolate dessert.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups sugar
• 4 tablespoons Hershey’s cocoa
• 1 stick salted butter
• 5-ounce can Carnation Evaporated Milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Nuts (optional)

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Instructions

• In a medium saucepan, mix sugar and cocoa until combined.
• Add the stick of butter and evaporated milk to the pan. Stir over medium heat until the mixture comes to a boil.
• Stir continuously while boiling for 7 minutes to ensure smoothness and prevent burning.
• Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Continue stirring for 3 minutes until the mixture begins to thicken slightly.
• Pour the fudge into a buttered baking dish and spread evenly.
• Let the fudge set at room temperature or refrigerate until firm. Cut into squares and serve.

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Notes

• For extra texture and flavor, mix in chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) before pouring into the baking dish.
• Store fudge in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• To ensure a smooth consistency, use a candy thermometer to verify the fudge reaches the soft-ball stage (235°F–240°F).