Chocolate fudge is a beloved treat that’s perfect for any occasion, from holiday celebrations to casual snacking. Its rich, creamy texture and intense chocolate flavor make it a favorite among chocolate lovers of all ages. This easy chocolate fudge recipe simplifies the process of making this decadent confection, ensuring that you get a smooth, silky result with minimal effort. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and satisfying. With just a few ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a batch of homemade fudge that’s as delightful as it is delicious. This recipe is ideal for gifting, parties, or simply enjoying a sweet treat at home.
Ingredients for Easy Chocolate Fudge
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How to Make Easy Chocolate Fudge
1. Prepare Your Baking Pan:
- Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal. Alternatively, you can grease the pan if you prefer not to use parchment paper.
2. Cook the Sugar Mixture:
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, whole milk, and heavy cream. Place the saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir the mixture continuously until the butter is completely melted and the sugar is dissolved. Once the sugar is dissolved, bring the mixture to a boil. Allow it to boil without stirring for about 4-5 minutes, or until it reaches the soft-ball stage on a candy thermometer (around 234°F to 240°F or 112°C to 115°C).
3. Add Chocolate and Cocoa Powder:
- Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and cocoa powder. Continue stirring until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
4. Incorporate Vanilla and Salt:
- Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Pour and Set:
- Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread the fudge evenly and smooth the top.
6. Cool and Set:
- Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for about 2 hours or until it is firm and set. You can also refrigerate it for faster setting.
7. Cut and Serve:
- Once the fudge is fully set, use the overhanging parchment paper to lift it out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and cut into squares or rectangles as desired.
8. Store:
- Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.
About the Main Ingredients
Granulated Sugar:
Granulated sugar is the primary sweetener in the fudge, providing the necessary sweetness and texture. When cooked with the other ingredients, it helps create the smooth, creamy consistency of the fudge.
Unsalted Butter:
Unsalted butter adds richness and creaminess to the fudge. It helps in achieving a smooth texture and contributes to the overall flavor. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt in the recipe.
Whole Milk:
Whole milk is used to dissolve the sugar and create a creamy base for the fudge. It helps in achieving the desired consistency and contributes to the richness of the final product.
Heavy Cream:
Heavy cream adds to the creaminess of the fudge, making it rich and indulgent. It also helps in achieving the smooth, velvety texture that is characteristic of fudge.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips:
Semi-sweet chocolate chips provide the main chocolate flavor in the fudge. They melt smoothly and blend well with the other ingredients to create a rich, chocolatey treat.
Cocoa Powder:
Cocoa powder intensifies the chocolate flavor of the fudge. It adds depth and richness, complementing the semi-sweet chocolate chips.
Vanilla Extract:
Vanilla extract adds a hint of flavor that enhances the overall taste of the fudge. It provides a subtle warmth and complexity to the chocolate flavor.
Salt:
A pinch of salt helps to balance the sweetness and enhance the chocolate flavor. It brings out the richness and depth of the fudge.
This easy chocolate fudge recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a classic treat without a lot of fuss. Its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make it a go-to recipe for any chocolate lover. Enjoy this rich, creamy fudge on its own or as part of a dessert platter for a touch of homemade indulgence.
