Philadelphia "Phudge"
Creamy, rich chocolate fudge with crunchy pecans, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and ideal for sharing at gatherings or as a decadent treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt chocolate and butter together over low heat or in the microwave; stir until smooth.
- Beat cream cheese in a bowl with a mixer until fluffy.
- Blend in the melted chocolate and butter mixture.
- Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt; beat until smooth.
- Stir in toasted chopped pecans.
- Spread the mixture into an 8-inch square pan lined with foil.
- Chill until firm, then cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before beating. If you prefer a different nut, walnuts or almonds can be used instead of pecans. To enhance the chocolate flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of espresso powder to the melted chocolate mixture. For a unique twist, sprinkle sea salt on top before chilling.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the fudge into bite-sized squares for a delightful treat at parties or gatherings. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For an extra special dessert, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or incorporate it into a dessert platter with other sweets like *Cream Pecan Fudge* or *Unique Cookies*.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, consider wrapping the fudge in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. To enjoy later, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Do not reheat, as this fudge is best served chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Philadelphia "Phudge" contains roughly 2187 calories, with 23g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 198g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (82% of the Daily Value), protein (45% of the Daily Value), and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1477mg per serving (64% 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 milk chocolate instead of unsweetened chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate for unsweetened chocolate, but reduce the sugar in the recipe since milk chocolate is already sweet. Adjust to taste for a balanced flavor.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
For a dairy-free alternative, consider using a vegan cream cheese or a mixture of silken tofu blended until smooth. This will maintain the creamy texture while accommodating dietary restrictions.
How can I make this fudge more festive?
To give your fudge a festive touch, try adding colorful sprinkles or chopped dried fruits on top before chilling. You can also layer it with peppermint extract for a seasonal flavor, especially around the holidays.
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).