In this post, we’ll show you how to make chocolate fudge at home. So put on your apron and get ready for some fun as we learn how to make this beloved treat that will surely bring smiles to faces.
What is chocolate fudge?
Chocolate fudge is a confection made from chocolate, sugar, and butter. It has a smooth and creamy texture that melts in your mouth and a distinct chocolate flavor. Chocolate fudge is great to make for holiday gifts or any other special occasions.
To make chocolate fudge, you first melt chocolate, butter and sugar together. You then cook the mixture over low heat until it thickens, stirring continuously. The mixture should have a smooth, velvety texture that holds its shape without being too hard or too soft.
What’s the difference between fudge and chocolate fudge?
While both fudge and chocolate fudge is made using similar cooking methods and share many similarities, the key difference lies in the inclusion of chocolate as a central flavor ingredient in the fudge (not a big surprise there!). Traditional fudge can have a variety of flavors beyond chocolate, while chocolate fudge is specifically focused on delivering a rich chocolate experience.
Should chocolate fudge be hard or soft?
Chocolate fudge should have a smooth and creamy texture that is neither too hard nor too soft. To achieve this texture, you must carefully cook, stir, and cool the mixture. You also need to monitor the cooking process to reach the correct temperature and consistency. Additionally, proper cooling and setting are crucial to achieving the desired fudge texture.
When making chocolate fudge, it is important to pay close attention to the cooling or “setting” process. A proper setting will ensure that when the sugar cools, it will crystallize in just the right way so that the fudge has the desired texture and consistency. Fudge should be smooth, creamy, and slightly firm; it should hold its shape when cut into squares or rectangles. This means that the sugar crystalized into small size crystals, rather than into a large chuck, like rock candy. If it doesn’t set correctly, it can also end up too soft or runny, making it more like a sauce than firm chewy fudge people expect. It’s important to heat the fudge mixture properly (make sure to use a good candy thermometer) and stir constantly to break up the sugar crystals as they form.
Ultimately, the perfect chocolate fudge should be smooth on your tongue, creamy as you chew it and firm enough to give you a delightful sensory experience with each bite.
Chocolate fudge recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ⅔ cup evaporated milk
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or 12 oz of your favorite dark chocolate chopped into bits)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Method
1. Prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it lightly with butter.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, butter, and evaporated milk. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the butter melts and the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Once the mixture is boiling, continue stirring constantly for about 5 minutes. The mixture should reach a temperature of 234°F on a candy thermometer or until it reaches the softball stage.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in the chocolate chips until they are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract
6. Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
7. Let the fudge cool at room temperature for about 2 hours, or until it is completely set and firm.
8. Once the fudge is set, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper or cut it into squares directly in the pan.
9. Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for a longer shelf life.
Enjoy!
We hope you enjoyed this article. For more great recipes, check out the rest of our CocoTerra blog.
If you have any questions or comments, feel free to contact us through our social media channels. We are @cocoterra_co on Instagram and Pinterest and @cocoterraco on Twitter and Facebook.
