Easy Homemade Original Fantasy Fudge: Creamy & Dreamy
Easy Homemade Original Fantasy Fudge: Creamy & Dreamy
Introduction
Welcome to the delightful world of homemade fudge! If you've ever dreamt of a truly melt-in-your-mouth treat, our Easy Homemade Original Fantasy Fudge is here to make those dreams a reality. This classic recipe delivers a rich, chocolatey flavor and a velvety smooth texture that will surprise you with how simple it is to achieve. Perfect for gifting, holidays, or just satisfying that intense sweet craving, this creamy and dreamy fudge is an irresistible indulgence that everyone will adore. Get ready to create a batch of pure bliss right in your own kitchen!
Ingredients
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 5 ounces evaporated milk (about 2/3 cup)
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 7 ounces marshmallow creme (such as Fluff)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional, e.g., walnuts or pecans)
Instructions
- Lightly grease a 9x13-inch pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy lifting. Set aside.
- In a heavy 3-quart saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, butter, and evaporated milk. Bring the mixture to a full rolling boil over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent scorching.
- Continue to boil for exactly 5 minutes, stirring continuously. This step is crucial for the fudge's texture.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat. Immediately add the semi-sweet chocolate chips and marshmallow creme. Stir vigorously until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract. If using, fold in the chopped nuts at this stage.
- Pour the hot fudge mixture evenly into your prepared 9x13-inch pan. Do not scrape the bottom of the pan too much, as this can introduce crystallization.
- Let the fudge cool completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours, or until firm.
- Once firm, use the parchment paper overhang (if used) to lift the fudge from the pan. Cut into small squares using a sharp, warm knife.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Pro Tips & Notes
- Don't Skimp on Stirring: Constant stirring during the boiling phase is absolutely key to prevent scorching and ensure even cooking, leading to that desirable smooth texture.
- Measure Accurately: Especially for the boiling time, precise measurements contribute significantly to the perfect consistency of your fudge.
- Avoid Scraping: When transferring the hot fudge to the pan, try not to scrape the sides or bottom of the saucepan too aggressively. This can introduce sugar crystals, which may lead to grainy fudge.
- Parchment Paper Power: Lining your pan with parchment paper not only makes removing the cooled fudge incredibly easy but also simplifies the cleanup process immensely.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment! You can use milk chocolate for a sweeter fudge, dark chocolate for a richer flavor, or even add a pinch of sea salt to the finished fudge for a delicious salted chocolate effect.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 180-220
- Protein: 1-2g
- Fat: 8-12g
- Saturated Fat: 5-8g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Sugar: 20-25g
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: My fudge turned out grainy. What went wrong? A: Grainy fudge is often caused by sugar crystallization. Ensure you stir constantly during the boiling phase, avoid scraping the pan too much when pouring, and refrain from stirring the fudge as it cools.
- Q: Can I make this fudge without a candy thermometer? A: Yes, absolutely! This "Fantasy Fudge" recipe is specifically designed to work perfectly without a candy thermometer, relying on a precise boiling time instead of temperature.
- Q: How long does homemade fudge last? A: When stored in an airtight container, homemade fudge will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 weeks. It can also be frozen for several months.