Decadent Old Fashioned Fudge

This 5-ingredient chocolate fudge recipe makes over 60 mini fudge squares! These rich, creamy, and delicious fudge treats are perfect for special occasions or holiday dessert tables. Customize these chocolaty fudge squares by adding 1 cup of add-ins (like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or mini candies) when you add the butter. Be sure to use a candy thermometer for best results.

I have been searching and searching for the chocolate fudge that I had tasted when I was about 8 or 10 years old, if you can believe that! This fudge melted in your mouth and was just a little bit crumbly.

I can remember going to the Christmas Bazaar at the Church on Saturday afternoon with a couple of my school friends. I bought my dime bag of chocolate fudge and I still remember thinking “this is the best Fudge I have ever eaten”.

And when we went back to get another bag, the lady was sold out. A sad day for me!

I think in my quest for “the One” I tasted fudge from any and all chocolate stores. And unfortunately they were all the creamy types usually made with sweetened condensed milk, just like my Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge or this Easy Walnut Fudge I wanted that crumbly melt in your mouth fudge!

Ingredients
Servings: 24 squares (approximately)

2 cups sugar
4 Tablespoons Hershey’s cocoa
1 stick of salted butter
5 ounce can of Carnation Evaporated Milk
1 teaspoon of vanilla
Nuts (optional, but they add a delightful crunch!)

How To Make Decadent Old Fashioned Fudge Recipe

Set the Stage: Before you start, line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This will make the removal of your fudge pieces a breeze.

Sweet Beginnings: In a heavy saucepan, combine the 2 cups of sugar with the 4 tablespoons of Hershey’s cocoa. Whisk them together until they’re well integrated.
Buttery Delight: Add the stick of salted butter and the 5 ounces of Carnation Evaporated Milk to your sugar and cocoa mixture. This is where the magic happens!

Stir It Up: Cook over medium heat while constantly stirring. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil and let it boil for about 3-4 minutes. The consistency you’re aiming for is a soft ball stage. A good way to test this is by dropping a tiny amount of the mixture into cold water. If it forms a soft ball, it’s ready.
Vanilla Essence: Once off the heat, stir in the teaspoon of vanilla. This will elevate your fudge to a whole new level of deliciousness!

Nuts About Fudge: If you’re a fan of nuts, fold them into your mixture now. They add a delightful crunch and contrast to the creamy texture of the fudge.

Set and Forget: Pour the mixture into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Let it cool for several hours. For the best results, resist the temptation to taste it and let it set overnight.
The Grand Finale: Once fully set, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper and place it on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut it into squares and enjoy the fruits of your labor!