Just Plain Fudge
Rich, creamy fudge with deep chocolate flavor and smooth vanilla undertones, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and sharing at gatherings or as a homemade treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place a 2-quart saucepan on the stove over medium heat, and add all ingredients except butter and vanilla, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
- Cover the saucepan until the mixture begins to boil.
- Remove the cover and reduce the heat to low.
- Insert a candy thermometer and cook until the temperature reaches 240 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Remove from heat and add the butter without stirring.
- Allow the mixture to cool undisturbed until it reaches 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Add vanilla and whip until the fudge begins to dull.
- Pour the fudge onto a buttered marble candy board, aluminum pan, or similar surface.
- Cut into bite-sized pieces when ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier fudge, consider adding a splash of heavy cream when mixing in the butter. If you don't have corn syrup, light agave syrup can be a suitable substitute. Make sure to use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor. Stirring too much after adding vanilla can cause the fudge to become grainy, so whip gently until it dulls.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the fudge into bite-sized squares and serve it on a decorative plate or in small paper cups for easy sharing. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside Autumn Apple Dip for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, refrigerate it, but bring it back to room temperature before serving to soften it. Avoid freezing, as this can change the texture and quality of the fudge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Just Plain Fudge contains roughly 32 calories, with 0g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 489mg per serving (21% 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
What if my fudge doesn't set properly?
If your fudge doesn't set, it may not have reached the correct temperature. Ensure your candy thermometer is calibrated. You can reheat the fudge gently and cook it to 240 degrees Fahrenheit again, then let it cool undisturbed before whipping.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Yes, you can add nuts like walnuts or pecans once the fudge has cooled slightly but before it starts to set. Stir them in gently after adding the vanilla. Chocolate chips or dried fruit also make great additions for added flavor and texture.
How can I make my fudge more chocolatey?
To enhance the chocolate flavor, you can increase the amount of chocolate used or add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the mixture. Be sure to adjust the sugar slightly to maintain the right balance of sweetness.
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).