44 
0 
Fudge is a delicious treat loved by people of all ages. Its rich and creamy texture, combined with its sweet and decadent taste, makes it an irresistible dessert. While it may seem daunting to make fudge from scratch, with the right ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a batch of mouthwatering fudge at home. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into the wonderful world of fudge-making!
Step 1: Gather the Ingredients
To make fudge, you will need the following ingredients: 2 cups of granulated sugar, 1 cup of heavy cream, ½ cup of unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, and 8 ounces of high-quality chocolate (either milk or dark, depending on your preference). You can also add nuts, dried fruits, or other ingredients to customize your fudge.
Step 2: Prepare the Pan
Start by lining a square baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring that there is an overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to remove the fudge once it has cooled and set. Set the pan aside for now.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture comes to a boil. Be careful not to let it burn or stick to the bottom of the pan.
Step 4: Cook the Mixture
Continue to cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it reaches a temperature of 238°F (114°C) on a candy thermometer. This is the soft-ball stage, at which the fudge will have a creamy and smooth texture. If you don’t have a candy thermometer, you can test for the soft-ball stage by dropping a small amount of the mixture into a glass of cold water. It should form a soft ball that you can easily squish between your fingers.
Step 5: Add the Chocolate
Once the mixture has reached the soft-ball stage, remove it from the heat and add the chocolate and vanilla extract. Stir vigorously until all the chocolate has melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy. This is the point where you can add any additional ingredients like nuts or dried fruits.
Step 6: Cool and Set the Fudge
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Let it cool at room temperature for about 2 hours. Then, transfer the pan to the refrigerator and allow the fudge to set for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Step 7: Cut and Enjoy
Once the fudge has completely set, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Place it on a cutting board and cut it into small squares or rectangles. If you want to add an extra touch, dust it with powdered sugar or cocoa powder.
Now, sit back, relax, and indulge in the delectable homemade fudge you’ve created. Whether you enjoy it yourself or share it with friends and family, this sweet treat is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction. The possibilities for flavors and variations are endless, allowing you to experiment and find your own signature fudge recipe. So, embrace your inner chef and start making fudge today!
0 | 
0