Orange-Walnut Fudge
A rich, velvety fudge infused with bright orange flavor and crunchy walnuts, perfect for holiday gifting or a delicious treat for chocolate and citrus lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line an 8 x 4 x 2-inch loaf pan with foil, extending over the edges, and butter the foil.
- In a saucepan, melt the margarine or butter over low heat.
- Remove from heat and stir in the sifted powdered sugar and cocoa powder until smooth.
- Add the evaporated milk, orange peel, and chopped walnuts, mixing well.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
- Refrigerate until firm, about 2 hours or overnight.
- Cut into small squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark cocoa powder instead of unsweetened cocoa. If you want a healthier twist, you can substitute coconut oil for margarine or butter. You can also add a pinch of sea salt to enhance the sweetness, or experiment with different nuts like pecans or almonds. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought orange zest instead of fresh.
Serving Suggestions
These fudge squares are perfect for a sweet treat alongside coffee or tea. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. For a festive touch, serve them on a platter with other treats like Cinnamon-Pear Crumble or Easy No-Bake Choco-Oat Cookies during gatherings. Consider dusting with extra cocoa powder or orange zest for added flair.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the fudge by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer bag. To enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Avoid reheating as it may alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange-Walnut Fudge contains roughly 735 calories, with 11g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (345% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (123% of the Daily Value), and iron (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 34g 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 milk instead of evaporated milk?
Yes, you can substitute regular milk for evaporated milk, but the texture may be slightly creamier. If you prefer a thicker consistency, consider using half-and-half or adding a bit more powdered sugar to maintain the firmness of the fudge.
How do I know when the fudge is set?
The fudge is set when it feels firm to the touch and holds its shape when you cut into it. Refrigerating for at least 2 hours is recommended, but letting it sit overnight will ensure a firmer texture that's easier to cut into squares.
Can I add other flavors to the fudge?
Absolutely! Consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or almond extract for additional flavor. You can also mix in dried fruits or other nuts to customize your fudge. Just keep in mind that additional ingredients may alter the texture slightly.
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).