Rich Cocoa Fudge

This Rich Cocoa Fudge is a classic confection that delivers intense chocolate flavor and a luxuriously smooth texture. Made with simple pantry staples like sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and butter, it transforms into a dense, sweet treat perfect for gifting or holiday gatherings. The key to success lies in reaching the exact soft-ball stage during cooking, ensuring the fudge sets properly without becoming grainy. It pairs beautifully with coffee or tea and holds its shape well for wrapping in festive cellophane. Whether you enjoy it plain or studded with nuts, this homemade fudge offers a decadent end to any meal or a satisfying afternoon snack.

Cooking Method: Boiling

Cuisine: Global

Courses: Desserts

Difficulty: Advanced

Servings: 36

Calories: 696.6

Dietary: Gluten-free, Vegetarian

Description

This Rich Cocoa Fudge is a classic confection that delivers intense chocolate flavor and a luxuriously smooth texture. Made with simple pantry staples like sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and butter, it transforms into a dense, sweet treat perfect for gifting or holiday gatherings. The key to success lies in reaching the exact soft-ball stage during cooking, ensuring the fudge sets properly without becoming grainy. It pairs beautifully with coffee or tea and holds its shape well for wrapping in festive cellophane. Whether you enjoy it plain or studded with nuts, this homemade fudge offers a decadent end to any meal or a satisfying afternoon snack.

Ingredients

3 cup Sugar
2/3 cup Hershey's Cocoa; OR...
1 1/2 cup Milk
1/4 cup Butter
1/8 tsp Salt
1 tsp Vanilla extract

Directions

1
Line an 8- or 9-inch square pan with foil and lightly butter the foil.
2
In a heavy 4-quart saucepan, stir together the sugar, cocoa powder, and salt.
3
Stir in the milk until well combined.
4
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a full rolling boil.
5
Attach a candy thermometer, ensuring the bulb does not touch the bottom of the pan.
6
Boil without stirring until the mixture reaches 234&# 194;Â°F (112ÃÂ°C) (soft-ball stage), or until a drop of syrup forms a soft ball in very cold water that flattens when removed.
7
Remove the saucepan from the heat.
8
Add the butter and vanilla extract; do not stir yet.
9
Let the fudge cool at room temperature until it reaches 110ÃÂ°F (lukewarm).
10
Beat the mixture vigorously with a wooden spoon until it thickens and loses its glossy sheen.
11
Quickly spread the fudge into the prepared pan.
12
Allow to cool completely at room temperature until firm.
13
Lift the fudge out of the pan using the foil and cut into squares.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 36

Amount Per Serving
Calories 696.6kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.0g0%
Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 1.8mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 180.0g60%
Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
Sugars 180.0g
Protein 0.0g0%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

For best results, do not double this recipe as it may affect the cooking time and texture.

Variation: Nutty Rich Cocoa Fudge - Immediately stir in 1 cup chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts after beating the fudge, then spread into the pan.

Variation: Marshmallow-Nut Cocoa Fudge - Increase cocoa to 3/4 cup. Add 1 cup marshmallow creme along with the butter and vanilla. Do not stir. Cool to 110ÃÂ°F, beat for 8 minutes, stir in 1 cup chopped nuts, and pour into the prepared pan. Note: This version does not set until poured into the pan.

High Altitude Adjustment: Increase milk to 1 2/3 cups. To determine the correct boiling temperature, boil water and check the thermometer. Subtract the difference from 212ÃÂ°F, then subtract that number from 234ÃÂ°F to find your soft-ball temperature.

Keywords: fudge, cocoa, chocolate, dessert, homemade, candy, holiday, gift, sweet, confection, soft ball, traditional, rich, indulgent, pantry, classic, treat, snack, baking, confections

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/rich-cocoa-fudge/