Old Time Chocolate Fudge by Paula Deen
Indulge in the nostalgic charm of Paula Deen's Old Time Chocolate Fudge, a classic homemade treat that combines rich, velvety texture with decadent chocolate flavor. Made with just a handful of pantry staples like sugar, milk, and unsweetened cocoa powder, this recipe stays true to tradition, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s both simple and satisfying. The addition of butter and vanilla extract enhances its creamy depth, while optional pecans or walnuts bring a delightful crunch. With easy-to-follow steps and a preparation method that calls for careful stirring and a touch of patience, this from-scratch fudge results in perfectly smooth, glossy squares that are ideal for gifting, dessert spreads, or an indulgent snack. Elevate your candy-making skills with this timeless recipe, perfect for holiday celebrations or quiet moments of indulgence.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups Sugar
- 0.75 cups Milk
- 3 tablespoons Unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 1 pinch Salt
- 0.5 cups Pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
Prepare an 8x8-inch pan by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it with butter.
In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, milk, and cocoa powder. Stir the mixture until fully combined and smooth.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly to ensure the sugar dissolves and doesn't burn.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the mixture to simmer without stirring until it reaches the soft-ball stage (approximately 234°F or 112°C on a candy thermometer), which takes about 15 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the butter, vanilla extract, and salt to the mixture but do not stir. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to cool slightly.
Using a wooden spoon, beat the mixture vigorously until it begins to thicken and lose its glossy sheen. This step may take 5-8 minutes.
If using nuts, gently fold them into the fudge at this stage.
Quickly pour the fudge into the prepared pan and spread it evenly using a spatula.
Allow the fudge to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for an additional hour to set.
Once firm, cut the fudge into small squares and serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2350 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 71.3 g | 91% | |
| Saturated Fat | 20.0 g | 100% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 82 mg | 27% | |
| Sodium | 362 mg | 16% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 425.7 g | 155% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.2 g | 40% | |
| Total Sugars | 411.4 g | ||
| Protein | 14.8 g | 30% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.1 mcg | 11% | |
| Calcium | 299 mg | 23% | |
| Iron | 4.2 mg | 23% | |
| Potassium | 787 mg | 17% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
