Drop Fudge
Drop Fudge is a rich, creamy confection with intense chocolate flavor, complemented by marshmallow cream and crunchy pecans. Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and sharing at gatherings, this classic fudge offers a smooth texture and irresistible taste for chocolate lovers of all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease sides and bottom of a large saucepan with 1 tablespoon of margarine.
- Add 1/3 cup margarine, sugar, and Carnation milk to the saucepan.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Cook until the mixture reaches soft ball stage, about 7 minutes from first bubbles.
- Remove from heat and add semi-sweet chocolate bits, marshmallow cream, and chopped pecans.
- Stir until the chocolate is dissolved.
- Beat the mixture until smooth and creamy.
- Drop spoonfuls onto waxed paper to cool and set.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the richness, you can substitute the margarine with unsalted butter for a creamier texture. Ensure you reach the soft ball stage by using a candy thermometer for accuracy. If you want a nutty crunch, chopped pecans can be added, or substitute with walnuts or almonds. For variety, consider mixing in a teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Drop fudge makes a delightful treat on its own or can be paired with coffee or hot chocolate. For a festive touch, serve alongside slices of Pumpkin Pecan Pie or as a sweet complement to Macaroon Angel Cakes during gatherings. Consider packaging it in decorative boxes for gifting during holidays or special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover drop fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate the fudge, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and consistency. To reheat, use a microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to prevent overheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Drop Fudge contains roughly 505 calories, with 4g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (19% of the Daily Value) and iron (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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
Can I use sweetened condensed milk instead of Carnation milk?
Yes, you can use sweetened condensed milk, but reduce the sugar in the recipe as it will add extra sweetness. This will create a richer and denser fudge, so monitor the cooking time to ensure it reaches the soft ball stage.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this drop fudge vegan, replace margarine with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips. Ensure that your marshmallow cream is vegan-friendly, or substitute with a vegan marshmallow fluff recipe for a similar texture.
What can I do if my fudge is too soft?
If your fudge turns out too soft, it may not have cooked long enough. You can try re-cooking it on low heat, stirring constantly until it reaches the soft ball stage. Alternatively, you could refrigerate it to set further, but the texture may vary.
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).