Darlene'S Easy Fudgediagonal, Iowa
A rich, fudgy candy with chocolate, marshmallows, and caramel flavors, perfect for sharing during holidays or special occasions for those with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir butter, evaporated milk, and sugar together over high heat until boiling vigorously.
- Reduce heat to medium-high and cook until the mixture reaches soft ball stage, about 10-15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter and a mix of dark and semi-sweet chocolate chips. If you don't have evaporated milk, whole milk or cream can be a substitute, but the texture may vary slightly. Stir frequently to prevent burning, especially as the mixture thickens. This fudge recipe is perfect for holidays or gatherings and pairs beautifully with Easy Easy Pecan Pralines.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fudge at room temperature for the best texture. It makes a delightful gift when wrapped in decorative packaging. Pair it with a glass of cold milk or coffee for a satisfying treat. This fudge can also be served alongside Chocolate Kiss Peanut Butter Cookies for a sweet dessert platter.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the fudge to cool completely at room temperature, then cut into squares and store in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerated for longer freshness. If you want to reheat, microwave in short bursts or place in a warm oven to soften, but be careful not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Darlene'S Easy Fudgediagonal, Iowa contains roughly 1096 calories, with 8g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 78g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (84% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (56% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 536mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when the fudge is at the soft ball stage?
To check for the soft ball stage, drop a small amount of the mixture into a glass of cold water. If it forms a soft ball that flattens when removed, it's ready. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes of cooking. If you're unsure, using a candy thermometer to reach around 234°F (112°C) can help ensure accuracy.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the fudge?
Yes, you can customize your fudge by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even swirl in some peanut butter or caramel. Just fold them in once the chocolate has melted, keeping in mind that this may change the texture slightly. Ensure any add-ins are evenly distributed for the best flavor.
What should I do if my fudge turns out grainy?
Grainy fudge can occur if the sugar didn't dissolve properly. To fix it, try reheating the fudge gently while stirring continuously until it becomes smooth again. If it remains grainy, you might consider using it as a topping for ice cream or incorporating it into other desserts like brownies.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).