Decadent Old Fashioned Fudge Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• 1 tablespoon light corn syrup (optional but helps prevent crystallization)
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pan:
   Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or buttered foil. Set aside.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, whisk together sugar, cocoa, and salt.
3. Add Wet Ingredients:
   Stir in milk and (if using) corn syrup. Mix until smooth.
4. Cook the Mixture:
   Place the pan over medium heat and bring to a boil, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves.
   Once boiling, stop stirring and cook until the temperature reaches 234°F (112°C) on a candy thermometer (the soft-ball stage).
5. Add Butter & Vanilla:
   Remove from heat immediately. Add butter and vanilla but do not stir.
   Let the mixture cool undisturbed to about 110°F (43°C) — it will take around 20–30 minutes.
6. Beat Until Thick & Matte:
   Once cooled, beat the fudge with a wooden spoon until it thickens and loses its glossy shine (about 5–10 minutes).
   The fudge will start to hold its shape.
7. Pour & Set:
   Quickly spread the fudge into the prepared pan. Smooth the top.
   Let it sit at room temperature until firm (about 2 hours).
8. Cut & Serve:
   Cut into small squares and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Old-Fashioned Fudge:

• Don’t stir once it starts boiling — it can cause sugar crystals to form.
• Make sure to let it cool before beating; this gives it the proper creamy texture.
• For a richer flavor, you can add ½ cup chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) during the beating stage.