Homemade Vanilla Fudge Recipe

Introduction

Homemade vanilla fudge is a rich, creamy treat that’s surprisingly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a smooth, sweet dessert that’s perfect for sharing or indulging yourself.

Ingredients

• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2/3 cup evaporated milk
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional; can be replaced with chocolate chips or other toppings)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Grease an 8-inch square baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, and evaporated milk.
3. Step 3: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly until the mixture reaches a rolling boil.
4. Step 4: Allow the mixture to boil for 4-5 minutes, continuing to stir to prevent burning.
5. Step 5: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
6. Step 6: If using, fold in the chopped nuts or your chosen toppings just until combined.
7. Step 7: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
8. Step 8: Let the fudge cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.
9. Step 9: Once firm, cut the fudge into small squares and enjoy your homemade treat!

Tips & Variations

• Use parchment paper for easy removal and cleaner edges.
• For a richer flavor, try adding a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
• Swap chopped nuts for mini chocolate chips, dried fruit, or toffee bits for different textures.
• Make sure to stir constantly during boiling to prevent the fudge from burning or becoming grainy.

Storage

Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To serve, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly. You can also freeze fudge for longer storage; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh milk instead of evaporated milk?

Evaporated milk provides a thicker, creamier consistency essential for fudge texture. Using fresh milk may result in a runnier fudge that doesn’t set as well.

How do I know when the fudge is done boiling?

The mixture should reach a rolling boil and boil for 4-5 minutes while stirred constantly. This ensures the sugar reaches the right temperature to set properly. Using a candy thermometer, you’re aiming for about 234-240°F (soft ball stage).

Homemade Vanilla Fudge Recipe

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This homemade vanilla fudge recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and sweet treat perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Made with simple ingredients like sugar, butter, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract, it creates a smooth and decadent fudge that can be customized with nuts or other toppings. Perfect for sharing, this fudge sets beautifully after chilling and can be enjoyed as delightful bite-sized sweets.

• Author: luca
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 16 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Fudge Base

• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2/3 cup evaporated milk
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Toppings

• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional, can be replaced with other toppings like chocolate chips)

Instructions

1. Preparation: Grease an 8-inch square baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent the fudge from sticking.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, and evaporated milk.
3. Heat Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly until the mixture reaches a rolling boil to ensure even cooking and prevent scorching.
4. Boil: Allow the mixture to boil for about 4 to 5 minutes, continuing to stir constantly to avoid burning the mixture.
5. Remove and Mix: Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately stir in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
6. Add Toppings: If using, fold in the chopped nuts or other toppings carefully until just combined to keep the texture balanced.
7. Pour and Spread: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula or spoon.
8. Cool: Let the fudge cool to room temperature; this helps it firm up slowly before refrigeration.
9. Chill: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours until it is fully set and firm enough to cut.
10. Serve: Once set, cut the fudge into small squares and enjoy your rich homemade treat!

Notes

• You can substitute chopped nuts with chocolate chips or other desired toppings.
• Stirring constantly during boiling is crucial to prevent burning and ensure smooth fudge texture.
• Allow fudge to cool completely before refrigerating for the best set and texture.
• Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
• For softer fudge, reduce boiling time slightly, but be cautious as undercooking can affect setting.

Keywords: vanilla fudge, homemade fudge, easy fudge recipe, fudge with nuts, creamy fudge dessert