1. Prepare Your Equipment
- Grease the Pan: Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the fudge.
- Gather Tools: You will need a heavy-bottomed saucepan, a wooden spoon, a candy thermometer, and a sharp knife for cutting the fudge.
2. Cook the Fudge Mixture
- Combine Ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, milk, butter, corn syrup, salt, and cocoa powder.
- Heat Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the butter melts.
- Boil the Mixture: Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a boil. Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan, ensuring it doesn’t touch the bottom of the pan.
- Reach Soft-Ball Stage: Continue to cook without stirring until the mixture reaches 238°F (114°C) on the candy thermometer (soft-ball stage). This may take about 10-15 minutes. Be patient and do not stir, as this can cause the sugar to crystallize.
3. Cool and Beat the Fudge
- Remove from Heat: Once the mixture reaches the soft-ball stage, remove the pan from the heat and let it cool undisturbed to 110°F (43°C). This can take about 30-40 minutes.
- Add Vanilla and Nuts: Once cooled, add the vanilla extract and chopped nuts (if using). Stir to combine.
- Beat the Mixture: Using a wooden spoon, beat the fudge mixture vigorously until it starts to thicken and loses its glossy sheen. This may take about 5-10 minutes. The fudge should become more difficult to stir and should start to hold its shape.
4. Set the Fudge
- Pour into Pan: Quickly pour the fudge into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Cool Completely: Allow the fudge to cool completely at room temperature. Once set, you can place it in the refrigerator for firmer texture.
5. Cut and Serve
- Cut into Squares: Once the fudge is completely set, use a sharp knife to cut it into small squares.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve your old-fashioned fudge pieces on a platter or wrap them individually in wax paper for gifting.
Tips for Success
- Consistency: Achieving the right consistency is key. Using a candy thermometer helps ensure that you reach the soft-ball stage accurately.
- Avoid Crystallization: Do not stir the mixture once it starts boiling, as this can cause the sugar to crystallize, resulting in grainy fudge.
- Cooling: Let the fudge mixture cool undisturbed to avoid any interference that could lead to crystallization.
Variations
- Chocolate Chips: For an extra chocolatey flavor, add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the mixture before beating.
- Marshmallow Fudge: Stir in 1 cup of mini marshmallows before pouring the mixture into the pan for a marshmallow fudge twist.
- Flavor Extracts: Substitute vanilla extract with other flavors like peppermint or almond for a different twist.
Conclusion
Old Fashioned Fudge is a timeless treat that never goes out of style. With its rich, creamy texture and deep chocolate flavor, this classic confection is sure to be a hit with family and friends. While the process requires some patience and attention to detail, the reward is a batch of fudge that is truly old-fashioned and utterly delicious. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful treat, and savor each melt-in-your-mouth bite of homemade goodness!