Lena'S 5 Pound Fudge

Cuisine: American

Lena's 5 Pound Fudge is a rich, creamy treat perfect for sharing during holidays or special occasions. Its sweet, buttery flavor and smooth texture make it a favorite among fudge lovers of all ages. Ideal for gifting or indulgent snacking, this classic recipe is simple to prepare and irresistibly delicious.

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Ingredients

  • 3 lb. white sugar
  • 1/2 lb. butter
  • 2 1/3 c. evaporated milk
  • 2 c. white Karo

Instructions

  1. Cook the white sugar, butter, evaporated milk, and white Karo together until a firm ball forms.
  2. Beat the mixture until you can't beat it anymore, then pour into a prepared pan and allow to set.

Tips & Substitutions

To achieve the perfect fudge consistency, ensure you cook the mixture until it reaches the firm ball stage, which typically occurs at around 240°F (115°C). If it's too soft, it won't set properly. For a twist, consider adding nuts or chocolate chips to the fudge mixture before pouring into the pan. If you prefer a sweeter option, you might substitute half of the white sugar with brown sugar for a richer flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Cut the fudge into small squares for serving; it makes a delightful treat at parties or as a sweet snack. Pair it with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy dessert experience. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside other treats like Cherry Winks or Merk'S Coffee Cake during holiday gatherings.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To keep it fresh, you can also refrigerate it, but be aware that cold fudge may become a bit firmer. If you want to enjoy it warm, gently reheat individual pieces in the microwave for a few seconds to soften it up without melting.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Lena'S 5 Pound Fudge contains roughly 1553 calories, with 9g protein, 221g carbohydrates, and 72g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (47% of the Daily Value), calcium (44% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin D.

1553 kcal 78% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 9.1g 18% DV
Total Fat 72.1g 92% DV
Carbs 220.9g 80% DV
Fiber 0.6g 2% DV
Sugar 184.1g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 447.8mg 19% DV
Potassium 358mg 8% DV
Cholesterol 178.5mg 60% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 263.2mcg 29% DV
Vitamin C 21.6mg 24% DV
Vitamin D 2.4mcg 12% DV
Calcium 575.2mg 44% DV
Iron 8.5mg 47% DV
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

How do I know when my fudge is done cooking?

The best way to determine if your fudge is done is by using a candy thermometer; it should reach a firm ball stage at 240°F (115°C). Alternatively, you can test a small amount of the mixture in cold water; if it forms a firm ball, it's ready to be beaten and poured into the pan.

Can I add flavors or mix-ins to the fudge?

Absolutely! You can enhance the flavor of your fudge by adding vanilla extract, nuts, or even crushed candies while mixing. Just be sure to fold them in gently after cooking to maintain the fudge's smooth texture.

What should I do if my fudge doesn't set properly?

If your fudge is too soft and doesn't set, you can reheat it gently in a saucepan and cook it a bit longer until it reaches the firm ball stage. Then, pour it back into the prepared pan to cool and set again, ensuring you monitor the temperature closely this time.

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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