Mrs. Claus' Fudge(Makes About 5 Pounds)
Creamy, rich chocolate fudge with nuts and marshmallows, perfect for holiday gifting or festive gatherings, offering a delightful blend of sweetness and texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix butter, evaporated milk, and sugar in a heavy saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a bubbly boil.
- Reduce heat to medium.
- Cook for 8 or 9 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Add chocolate chips and stir until melted.
- Stir in vanilla, chopped nuts, and melted marshmallows.
- Pour the mixture into an 18 x 12-inch pan.
- Let stand for a while, preferably overnight, before cutting.
- Freeze if desired.
- Place waxed paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect fudge consistency, make sure to stir constantly while the mixture is cooking to prevent it from burning. If you prefer a variation, you can substitute half of the chocolate chips with white chocolate or even use peanut butter chips. Additionally, feel free to explore adding flavors like almond extract for a unique twist. For a festive touch, consider incorporating crushed peppermint or using nuts like walnuts or pecans.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the fudge into bite-sized squares for easy serving at parties or holiday gatherings. It pairs beautifully with a cup of hot chocolate or coffee, making it a perfect treat for cozy evenings. For an extra festive touch, serve alongside Cherry-Mallow Dessert or other sweet treats like Friendship Candy to create an assorted dessert platter.
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, it can be refrigerated for up to a month. To reheat, simply microwave it in short bursts until soft but not melted, so it retains its shape for slicing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mrs. Claus' Fudge(Makes About 5 Pounds) contains roughly 3011 calories, with 49g protein, 397g carbohydrates, and 137g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (168% of the Daily Value), and protein (99% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1764mg per serving (77% 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
Can I use a different type of milk instead of evaporated milk?
While evaporated milk gives a creamier texture, you can substitute it with whole milk or a dairy-free alternative, but keep in mind that the final fudge may be slightly less rich. If using a non-dairy option, ensure it has a similar fat content to maintain the fudge's creaminess.
What can I do if my fudge doesn't set properly?
If your fudge is too soft, it may need more cooking time. Try returning it to the saucepan and cooking for an additional few minutes until it reaches the soft ball stage (234-240°F). Alternatively, refrigerating it for a few hours can also help it firm up. Ensure you follow the timing closely for best results.
Can I freeze the fudge?
Yes, you can freeze the fudge! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving, which helps maintain its texture and flavor.
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).