Grandma’s old-fashioned fudge recipe is a true classic that never goes out of style.
This heavenly dessert is not only rich and creamy but also incredibly easy to make, using just five simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly affordable and doesn’t require fancy or hard-to-find ingredients. You can whip up a batch of fudge in minutes without breaking the bank or spending hours in the kitchen.
It’s a great dessert option for any occasion, whether hosting a party, celebrating a special event, or craving something sweet.
You can also package this fudge and gift it to friends and family for Christmas or special holidays. My mum and I would do this every year, and it was so much fun!
Overall, grandma’s old-fashioned fudge recipe is a timeless classic that is easy to make, delicious to eat, and perfect for sharing with your loved ones.
Why You Will Love This Old-Fashioned Chocolate Fudge
- Made in one pot
- Affordable pantry staple ingredients
- Creamy and sweet
- Perfect for gifting
- Keeps well in the fridge
Ingredients For Old-Fashioned Fudge
It’s made with staple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry!
- White Sugar – white sugar provides sweetness and helps to give the fudge its desirable texture and consistency.
- Butter – salted or unsalted, your preference.
- Cocoa Powder – adds a rich chocolate depth to this fudge.
- Vanilla Extract – either vanilla extract or vanilla essence will do.
- Milk – helps to achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
Variations
- Add nuts
- Add marshmallows
- Add crushed peppermint candy for a holiday twist
- Add chocolate chips
Tools to Use
Saucepan – A heavy, straight-sided saucepan made of aluminium or stainless steel is best for use.
Candy thermometer – If you want to make fudge, it’s a good idea to use a tool called a candy thermometer. It helps you know exactly when the fudge is ready. But if you don’t have one, you can still check if the fudge is ready by dropping a small amount of the mixture into a glass of cold water. If it becomes a ball, then it’s ready!
Wooden spoon – When making fudge, use a wooden spoon instead of a metal one as wood doesn’t conduct heat.
How to Make Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Fudge
The full ingredient list and printable recipe are at the bottom of this post!
1. Prepare a pan with butter and place to the side.
2. Combine sugar, cocoa, milk, and butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring continuously until the sugar dissolves and the butter is melted.
3. Bring to a boil until it reaches 114 degrees Celsius. Do not stir while it boils. When it reaches temperature, remove it from the heat.
4. Add in the vanilla. Leave it to sit for 5 minutes then stir with a wooden spoon until it thickens in the pot.
5. Pour the fudge mixture into the buttered pan to set. Leave it to cool before cutting into small squares.
How to Store Your Fudge
Room Temperature – Fudge can be stored at room temperature for 1-2 weeks. Choose a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Refrigerate – For longer storage, put the airtight container in the refrigerator. Refrigerated fudge can last 2-3 weeks. Be aware that refrigerating can sometimes change the texture, making it firmer.
Freezer – If you want to store fudge for several months, freezing is an effective option. Wrap the pieces in wax paper and seal them in a freezer bag or airtight container. Fudge can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature.
Expert Tips
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent the fudge from burning or sticking to the pan.
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure that the fudge reaches the correct temperature. This will help to achieve the desired texture and consistency.
- Stir the mixture continuously while cooking to prevent the sugar from crystallizing. This will help ensure the fudge sets properly and has a smooth texture.
Looking For More Dessert Recipes? Try These:
Old-Fashioned Stove Top Fudge Recipe
Grandma's old-fashioned fudge recipe is easy to make with just a few simple ingredients. This is the best homemade fudge recipe, and perfect for food gifts and treats throughout the holidays. Made without condensed milk, this basic recipe is totally fuss-free!
Ingredients
- 2 cups white sugar
- 2 tablespoon cocoa powder
- ½ cups milk
- 25g butter
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Prepare a pan with butter and place to the side.
2. Combine sugar, cocoa, milk, and butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring continuously until the sugar dissolves and the butter is melted.
3. Bring to a boil until it reaches 114 degrees Celsius. Do not stir while it boils. When it reaches temperature, remove it from the heat.
4. Add in the vanilla. Leave it to sit for 5 minutes then stir with a wooden spoon until it thickens up in the pot.
5. Pour the fudge mixture into the buttered pan to set. Leave it to cool before cutting into small squares.
Notes
- Use a heavy, straight-sided saucepan made of aluminium or stainless steel is best for use.
- It's a good idea to use a candy thermometer. It helps you know exactly when the fudge is ready. But if you don't have one, you can still check if the fudge is ready by dropping a small amount of the mixture into a glass of cold water. If it becomes a ball, then it's ready!
- Use a wooden spoon instead of a metal one, as wood doesn't conduct heat.
- Store in an air-tight container!
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
18Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 102Total Fat: 1gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 4mgSodium: 12mgCarbohydrates: 23gFiber: 0gSugar: 23gProtein: 0g
Estimated nutrition information is provided as a courtesy and is not guaranteed.