Soft Boiled Fudge
Soft boiled fudge offers a rich, creamy chocolate treat with a smooth texture, perfect for sweet lovers and easily made at home for a delightful dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, milk, butter, and cocoa in a saucepan.
- Cover and cook until boiling point is reached.
- Continue boiling until the mixture reaches the soft ball stage.
- Remove from heat and add vanilla flavoring.
- Cool without stirring until it reaches room temperature.
- Beat the mixture until it becomes creamy, thick, and will hold its shape when dropped from a teaspoon.
- Pour into a well-buttered shallow pan and allow to set.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure your fudge sets perfectly, use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature as you cook. If you don't have cocoa, you can substitute it with carob powder for a different flavor. For a twist, consider adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before it sets. Remember, the key to creamy fudge is beating it well after cooling.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the fudge into small squares and serve as a delightful treat with coffee or tea. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. Consider serving it alongside slices of Yum Plum Cake or Sissies Chocolate Chip Cake for a sweet platter that guests will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate it, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor. Avoid freezing, as it can alter the texture of the fudge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Soft Boiled Fudge contains roughly 195 calories, with 3g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 4g 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
What is the soft ball stage in candy making?
The soft ball stage occurs at around 234-240°F (112-115°C) and means that when a small amount of the mixture is dropped into cold water, it forms a soft, pliable ball. This stage is crucial for achieving the right consistency in fudge.
Can I use alternative sweeteners in this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with alternative sweeteners like agave syrup or honey, but keep in mind that they may alter the texture and flavor. Adjust the quantity according to the sweetness level, as these alternatives are often sweeter than sugar.
How can I tell if my fudge is ready to be poured?
Your fudge is ready to pour once it reaches the soft ball stage and has a glossy appearance. It should be thick enough to hold its shape when dropped from a spoon. Conduct the cold water test to check the consistency before removing it from the heat.
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).