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Classic Rich Creamy Fudge

Section: Lunch

This rich and creamy fudge combines simple pantry ingredients like sugar, cocoa, milk, and butter. Once heated to the perfect soft ball stage, it's cooled slightly and then beaten until thick and silky. The final product sets into smooth, luscious squares with a deep chocolate flavor highlighted by vanilla. The process requires careful stirring and temperature control to achieve the ideal texture. Best stored airtight at room temperature to maintain its creamy consistency and enjoyed within a week.

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Sandra
Created By Sandra
Updated on Thu, 20 Nov 2025 18:48:39 GMT
A wooden cutting board with a stack of old fashioned fudge. Save
A wooden cutting board with a stack of old fashioned fudge. | howtogourmet.com

This old fashioned fudge is a timeless indulgence that brings back memories of cozy family gatherings and festive celebrations. Its creamy texture and rich chocolate flavor make it a comforting sweet treat you will want to keep on hand.

I first made this fudge to share with my grandparents and instantly felt a warm connection to the past. It quickly became a favorite for holiday gifting and quiet evenings with a cup of tea.

Ingredients You Need

  • Granulated sugar: creates the perfect sweet base and caramelizes smoothly when heated
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder: brings that rich chocolate backbone fresh powder ensures vibrant flavor
  • Whole milk: adds creaminess and helps achieve the right fudge consistency
  • Unsalted butter: gives the fudge its luscious richness and a silky finish
  • Vanilla extract: enhances all the flavors with a subtle fragrant note

Detailed Cooking Directions

Build The Mixture:
Combine sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Stir consistently until everything is melted and the mixture is lukewarm. This initial gentle heating helps the ingredients blend uniformly.
Reach The Perfect Temperature:
Turn the heat up to bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Stir constantly to prevent burning and ensure even cooking. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature and wait until it hits the soft ball stage at 235°F or 113°C. This step is essential for achieving the ideal fudge texture.
Add Flavor And Cool:
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in vanilla extract for a fragrant boost. Let the mixture cool undisturbed for 10 minutes so it stops cooking but stays warm enough for beating.
Beat Until Thickened:
After cooling, beat the fudge vigorously for about 5 minutes. This action transforms the sugary liquid into a thick, creamy mass ready for setting.
Set The Fudge:
Pour the fudge into a greased 8-inch square baking dish and spread it evenly. Allow it to sit at room temperature for around two hours until firm but still soft enough to cut into squares.
A wooden tray with a bowl of old fashioned fudge.
A wooden tray with a bowl of old fashioned fudge. | howtogourmet.com

I have fond memories of making this fudge with my family during the holidays. Every batch was a chance to laugh, chat, and share the sweet end result together. Using pure vanilla extract always makes a noticeable difference in flavor richness.

Smart Storage Tips

Proper storage helps your fudge stay soft and delicious. Keep it in an airtight container away from heat and sunlight to prevent melting or drying out. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it but bring it to room temperature before serving for optimum softness.

Ingredient Variations

Try adding a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for some crunch and depth. You can also swirl in a spoonful of peanut butter for a rich twist. For an extra indulgence, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top just before setting.

Perfect Pairing Ideas

Fudge pairs wonderfully with a strong cup of coffee or a bold, slightly bitter black tea, which balances the sweetness perfectly. For dessert plates, serve alongside fresh berries to add a vibrant contrast.

Seasonal Makeovers

Create festive versions by stirring in peppermint extract and crushed candy canes during the cooling step. In warmer months, add diced dried fruits like cherries or apricots for a fresh burst of flavor.

A stack of old fashioned fudge.
A stack of old fashioned fudge. | howtogourmet.com

This old fashioned fudge remains one of those simple pleasures that never grow old. The ritual of making it, watching the transformation from liquid to creamy delight, is as satisfying as the first bite. Let the squares rest for a couple of minutes after slicing and enjoy the smooth, decadent sweetness that feels like a shared secret from the past.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I know when the fudge has reached the right temperature?

Use a candy thermometer and cook until the mixture reaches the soft ball stage, about 235°F (113°C), which ensures proper setting.

→ Why is beating the fudge after cooling important?

Beating incorporates air and helps develop a smooth, creamy texture instead of a grainy one.

→ Can I substitute milk with another liquid?

Whole milk provides richness, but you can try cream or evaporated milk for a slightly different texture and flavor.

→ What is the best way to store this fudge?

Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain freshness and texture.

→ How can I prevent the fudge from becoming grainy?

Stir constantly during boiling and ensure the sugar fully dissolves. Accurate temperature and proper beating also help avoid graininess.

Classic Rich Creamy Fudge

Smooth, rich, and creamy cocoa fudge with buttery vanilla flavor, set to a perfect creamy texture.

Preparation Time
10 minutes
Time to Cook
15 minutes
Overall Time
25 minutes
Created By: Sandra

Type of Recipe: Lunch

Difficulty Rating: Simple for Beginners

Cuisine Style: American

Yield: 16 Number of Servings (16 squares)

Dietary Options: Suitable for Vegetarians, Without Gluten

Ingredients Required

→ Dry Ingredients

01 400 grams granulated sugar
02 50 grams unsweetened cocoa powder

→ Wet Ingredients

03 240 milliliters whole milk
04 115 grams unsalted butter
05 5 milliliters vanilla extract

Detailed Directions

Instruction Step 01

Lightly grease an 20 cm square baking dish to prevent sticking.

Instruction Step 02

In a medium saucepan over low heat, mix granulated sugar, cocoa powder, whole milk, and unsalted butter, stirring until the mixture is smooth.

Instruction Step 03

Increase heat and maintain a rolling boil while stirring constantly for approximately 5 minutes until the mixture reaches the soft ball stage at 113°C.

Instruction Step 04

Remove the saucepan from heat and promptly stir in the vanilla extract.

Instruction Step 05

Allow the mixture to cool for 10 minutes, then vigorously beat for about 5 minutes until thickened and creamy.

Instruction Step 06

Pour the mixture into the prepared dish, spread evenly, and let it set at room temperature for approximately 2 hours before cutting into squares.

Helpful Advice

  1. Use a candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches the precise temperature for ideal texture.
  2. Beating the fudge after cooling is essential to achieve its characteristic creamy and smooth consistency.
  3. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness.

Equipment Needed

  • Medium saucepan
  • Candy thermometer
  • 8-inch (20 cm) square baking dish
  • Mixing spoon

Allergen Info

Review ingredient labels for allergens and talk to a doctor if unsure.
  • Contains dairy

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Use these nutrition facts as a guide only. Always check with a healthcare expert.
  • Calorie Count: 225
  • Fat Content: 10 grams
  • Carbohydrate Amount: 30 grams
  • Protein Content: 2 grams