Old Fashioned Fudge

Introduction

The kitchen smelled like warm cocoa and butter — a small steam cloud curled above the pan as I stirred by the window. This Old Fashioned Fudge takes me back to my grandmother’s tiny stove and the soft clink of spoons. This always takes me back to Sunday dinners. I made this batch slowly and loved how the sugar snapped into a glossy, thick texture as it cooled.

Why You’ll Love This

• Quick to make with pantry staples.
• Comforting, rich chocolate flavor everyone recognizes.
• Kid-approved texture for little helpers.
• Budget-friendly and great for gift trays.

Quick Recipe Snapshot

• Servings: 9–12 squares
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 10–12 minutes
• Total time: 30–40 minutes (including cooling)
• Skill level: Easy
• Taste: Sweet + creamy chocolate
  This recipe builds confidence — watch simple cues and you’ll have perfect, silky fudge.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups granulated sugar — sturdy, everyday sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder — sift if lumpy
• 1/2 cup milk — whole milk gives best texture
• 1/4 cup butter — unsalted preferred
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract — stir in off the heat
• 1 cup chocolate chips (optional) — for extra silkiness

How to Make It

1. First, combine the sugar, cocoa powder, and milk in a medium saucepan. Whisk to remove lumps.
2. Then, place the pan over medium heat and stir constantly. Listen for a gentle sizzle and watch the cocoa dissolve.
3. Next, bring to a rolling boil while stirring; keep scraping the bottom so nothing sticks. The mixture will darken and thicken.
4. Meanwhile, add the butter and keep stirring for about 5 minutes. The mixture should form a soft-ball stage — about 234°F (112°C) on a candy thermometer.
5. Remove from heat right away when it hits that temp. Stir in the vanilla and the chocolate chips until glossy and even.
6. Finally, pour into a greased square pan and smooth the top. Let it cool at room temperature until firm, then cut into squares.

Kitchen Tips (From My Kitchen)

1. Time-saver: Use a candy thermometer to skip guesswork and save stirring time.
2. Common mistake + fix: If the fudge grainy, you cooked too long; gently reheat with a splash of milk and beat until smooth.
3. Simple variation: Add 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon or a pinch of espresso powder for depth.

Serving Ideas

• Wrap squares in parchment for holiday tins and neighbor gifts.
• Serve after weeknight dinners with strong coffee for a cozy finish.
• Bring to brunch for a sweet bite alongside fruit and scones.
• Garnish with sea salt flakes or chopped toasted pecans for contrast.

Storing & Leftovers

• Fridge storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
• Freezer option: Freeze squares up to 2 months, wrapped well.
• Reheat: Let thaw at room temperature; avoid microwaves to preserve texture.
  Leftover idea: Chop and fold into vanilla ice cream for an instant sundae.

Old Fashioned Fudge

Cozy, chocolatey, and simply nostalgic, this Old Fashioned Fudge is rich, creamy, and a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 12 squares

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups granulated sugar sturdy, everyday sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder sift if lumpy
• 1/2 cup milk whole milk gives best texture
• 1/4 cup butter unsalted preferred
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract stir in off the heat
• 1 cup chocolate chips optional, for extra silkiness

Method

 

Preparation

1. Combine the sugar, cocoa powder, and milk in a medium saucepan. Whisk to remove lumps.
2. Place the pan over medium heat and stir constantly. Listen for a gentle sizzle and watch the cocoa dissolve.
3. Bring to a rolling boil while stirring; keep scraping the bottom so nothing sticks. The mixture will darken and thicken.
4. Add the butter and keep stirring for about 5 minutes until the mixture reaches soft-ball stage (about 234°F or 112°C on a candy thermometer).
5. Remove from heat right away when it hits that temperature. Stir in the vanilla and chocolate chips until glossy and even.
6. Pour into a greased square pan and smooth the top. Let it cool at room temperature until firm, then cut into squares.

Notes

Time-saver: Use a candy thermometer to skip guesswork and save stirring time. If the fudge is grainy, you cooked too long; gently reheat with a splash of milk and beat until smooth. Add 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon or a pinch of espresso powder for depth.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes — make the fudge a day or two ahead; it keeps well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day.

Q: Can I substitute milk with cream or non-dairy milk?
A: You can use light cream for a richer texture, or soy/almond milk for dairy-free, though texture may vary.

Q: How do I know it’s done?
A: The mix will reach soft-ball (about 234°F/112°C) and thicken. When a small spoonful dropped into cold water forms a soft, pliable ball, you’re done.

Q: Can I freeze Old Fashioned Fudge?
A: Absolutely — freeze in single layers with parchment between squares; thaw in the fridge overnight for best texture.

Final Thoughts

I love that this Old Fashioned Fudge asks for just a few honest ingredients and a little attention. So, take your time with the stirring, trust the thermometer, and share the squares — they disappear fast. I hope you make it, tweak it, and find the same small comfort I do in each bite of Old Fashioned Fudge.

Conclusion

For another old-school take on chocolate fudge, see this classic recipe at Old Fashioned Chocolate Fudge Recipe – An Italian in my Kitchen. Also, you might compare techniques with this longtime favorite at Old Fashioned Chocolate Fudge Recipe – Food.com.