Introduction
Chocolate fudge is a dessert loved the world over for its creamy, rich mouth feel and equally delectable chocolaty taste. An ideal treat for parties, gifts during the festive season or even a simple dessert to satiate one’s sweet cravings — this quintessential delicacy is surprisingly quick and straightforward to prepare in one’s own kitchen. Making fudge at home may seem complicated but with some patience and easy steps, one can easily whip up a batch of homemade chocolate fudge and impress the friends and relatives. Chocolate fudge is a great treat and can be eaten plain or even combined with other flavors and textures, making it the perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
2 cups (500 ml) granulated sugar 3/4 cup (180 ml) unsalted butter 2/3 cup (160 ml) evaporated milk 12 oz (340 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips 7 oz (200 g) marshmallow cream (or mini marshmallows) 1 tsp vanilla extract Pinch of salt
Instructions
Prepare the Pan: Take a parchment paper and line an 8×8-inch square baking dish or lightly butter the baking dish so that you can easily remove the fudge later.
Heat the Base: Take a heavy bottom pan and mix the sugar, butter and evaporated milk over medium heat. Make sure to stir the mixture until it tastes hot and breaks into a boil.
Cook: Once the mixture comes to a boil, allow it to boil for about 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. After boiling, remove the pot off the heat.Source.
Mix in hocolate and marshmallow: Stirr in the chocolate chips and marshmallow cream then melt and mix together. Pour in the vanilla extract and a bit of salt.
Set the Fudge: Transfer batter into the prepared baking dish and use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly over the surface.
Cool and Cut: The fudge should be entirely cooled, allow standing at room temperature or use the refrigerator for quicker setting time. When solid, cut into squares and present it to guests.
Hints for Success
Make use of a candy thermometer so as to measure if the mixture has the right temperature, especially when boiling. The recommended temperature is (234–240°F / 112–115°C).
Crystallization is avoided by stirring in all of the ingredients during the boiling phase to ensure that smooth fudge is secured.
For the desired shinny look, do not mix the constituents too much after the chocolate has melted.
Health Benefits
Chocolate fudge is not all bad, it explores:
Chocolate sources of antioxidants, protecting the heart.
Sugar as a source of energy for rapid throughput.
Milk and butter provide a trace quantity of calcium and iron.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
(Based on 1-inch square piece)
Calories: ~120
Fat: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Protein: 1 g
Sugar: 14 g
Variations and Substitutions
Nutty Fudge: For added crunch, include walnuts or pecans, 1/2 cup of each.
Dark Chocolate Fudge: Switch semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark ones.
Dairy-Free Version: Substitute with coconut milk and vegan butter.
Flavored Fudge: Use 1/2 tsp peppermint or almond extract as flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the shelf life of chocolate fudge? A: It can be kept for about 2 weeks at room temperature or one month if refrigerated in an airtight container.
Q: Is it possible to keep fudge in the freezer? A: Sure! Wrap the fudge in wax paper and seal them in a freezer-safe bag. They may be stored for three months.
Q: What caused the fudge to turn grainy? A: Graininess occurs due to the accumulation of sugar crystals. So maintain constant stir and ensure the temperature is not too high or too low.
Conclusion
Anyone who tastes it cannot help but smile – it is chocolate fudge, one of the most delightful desserts of all time. Itscomponents of smooth and creamy taste together with a pronounced chocolate flavor is a real treat, and is ideal when spent with loved ones or given as a gift. Regardless of whether you stick to the traditional recipe or decide to be creative with it, you will not have a hard time making this sweet treat over and over again in the kitchen as it is easy and quick to prepare so much so that it has the propensity to become your favorite. Go ahead and try it out, and be proud of the dessert you made, knowing full well that everyone will love it!
