Kneaded Chocolate Fudge

Prep: 20 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

Kneaded chocolate fudge offers rich, velvety chocolate flavor with a chewy texture, perfect for those who love homemade confections and want a rewarding treat.

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Ingredients

  • 2 Tbsp. butter
  • 2 sq. unsweetened chocolate
  • 3 c. sugar
  • 1 c. milk
  • 1/4 c. honey
  • 1/8 tsp. salt
  • 1 tsp. vinegar
  • 1 tsp. vanilla
  • 1/2 c. chopped nuts

Instructions

  1. Melt butter and unsweetened chocolate in a saucepan.
  2. Add sugar, milk, honey, and salt to the saucepan.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and boil for 2 minutes.
  4. Uncover and cook without stirring until a small amount dropped in cold water forms a soft ball (238°F on a candy thermometer).
  5. Remove from heat and add vinegar.
  6. Let the mixture stand until lukewarm.
  7. Add vanilla and beat until thick and glossy.
  8. Stir in chopped nuts.
  9. Turn the mixture onto a buttered plate and let it cool enough to handle.
  10. Knead with fingers for 4 to 5 minutes.
  11. Shape into two rolls about 2 inches in diameter, wrap in wax paper, and slice when cool.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smoother fudge, ensure the butter and chocolate are fully melted and combined before adding the other ingredients. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped nuts or substitute with sunflower seeds for a different texture. Keep an eye on the cooking temperature to reach the perfect soft ball stage, as this is crucial for the fudge's consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This kneaded chocolate fudge is perfect for gifting or as a sweet treat after a meal. Serve it alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack. It pairs beautifully with Philly Chocolate Sauce for a decadent dessert experience. You can also slice it into bite-sized pieces for parties or gatherings.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply let it sit at room temperature or warm it gently in the microwave for a few seconds to soften before slicing.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Kneaded Chocolate Fudge contains roughly 458 calories, with 3g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 889mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).

458 kcal 23% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.2g 6% DV
Total Fat 10.4g 13% DV
Carbs 36.8g 13% DV
Fiber 1.2g 4% DV
Sugar 14.4g 29% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 888.9mg 39% DV
Potassium 426.2mg 9% DV
Cholesterol 4mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 6.4mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 9.2mg 10% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 42.6mg 3% DV
Iron 0.7mg 4% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Milk

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 milk chocolate instead of unsweetened chocolate?

While you can use milk chocolate, it will alter the flavor and sweetness of the fudge. If you prefer a sweeter fudge, consider reducing the amount of sugar slightly or adding a touch more cocoa powder to balance the flavors.

What can I substitute for honey?

If you don't have honey on hand, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute. Both will add sweetness and a unique flavor, but be aware that they may slightly change the texture of the fudge.

Why is my fudge grainy?

Graininess in fudge often results from sugar crystals forming during cooking. To avoid this, ensure the mixture is boiled without stirring once it reaches a boil. Additionally, using a candy thermometer can help you achieve the correct temperature without overcooking.

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).

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