There’s something incredibly nostalgic and comforting about homemade fudge, especially when it’s a cherished family recipe. My Mom’s Fudge is a delightful treat that has been a staple at family gatherings, holiday celebrations, and special occasions for as long as I can remember. The rich, creamy texture and decadent chocolate flavor make it an irresistible dessert that everyone loves.
I have fond memories of standing on a stool in the kitchen, watching my mom carefully measure and mix the ingredients, and eagerly waiting for the fudge to set so we could enjoy a piece (or two). The process of making this fudge is as enjoyable as the end result, creating moments of joy and bonding in the kitchen. I’m excited to share this beloved recipe with you, hoping it brings as much happiness to your home as it has to mine.
Ingredients
¾ cup unsalted butter
2 ½ cups granulated sugar
⅔ cup evaporated milk
12 oz. bag semi-sweet chocolate chips
7 oz. marshmallow fluff
1 tsp. vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Ingredients
Prepare the Baking Dish:
Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with aluminum foil, ensuring the foil extends over the edges for easy removal later. Lightly spray the foil with non-stick cooking spray. This step ensures that the fudge doesn’t stick to the pan and makes it easier to lift out once it’s set.
Measure and Set Aside Ingredients:
Measure out ¾ cup of unsalted butter, 2 ½ cups of granulated sugar, and ⅔ cup of evaporated milk.
Have the 12 oz. bag of semi-sweet chocolate chips, 7 oz. of marshmallow fluff, and 1 tsp. of vanilla extract ready and within reach.
Step 2: Make the Fudge Base
Combine Butter, Sugar, and Milk:
Place the butter, granulated sugar, and evaporated milk into a large saucepan. Use a saucepan with high sides to prevent any boiling over.
Heat the mixture over high heat, whisking often to combine. The butter will melt, and the sugar will start to dissolve, creating a smooth mixture.
Bring to a Boil:
Once the mixture comes to a rolling boil, reduce the heat to medium. Continue to boil for five minutes, whisking constantly. This step is crucial as it helps to thicken the mixture and dissolve the sugar completely.
Step 3: Add the Chocolate and Marshmallow Fluff
Remove from Heat:
After five minutes of boiling, remove the saucepan from the heat.
Add Chocolate Chips:
Immediately add the 12 oz. of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the hot mixture. Whisk until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Incorporate Marshmallow Fluff and Vanilla:
Add the 7 oz. of marshmallow fluff and 1 tsp. of vanilla extract to the saucepan. Continue to whisk until the marshmallow fluff is completely melted and the vanilla is well incorporated. The mixture should be thick and creamy.
Step 4: Pour and Set the Fudge
Pour into Prepared Pan:
Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared 9×9-inch baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the top.
Refrigerate:
Place the baking dish in the refrigerator and let the fudge set for several hours. The refrigeration helps the fudge firm up to the perfect consistency for slicing.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Remove from Pan:
Once the fudge is completely set, lift it out of the pan using the overhanging edges of the aluminum foil. Place the block of fudge on a cutting board.
Slice the Fudge:
Use a sharp knife to slice the fudge into squares. For clean cuts, you can dip the knife in hot water and wipe it dry between cuts.
Serve:
Arrange the fudge pieces on a serving platter and enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about fudge is its versatility. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try to customize the recipe to your liking:
Nutty Fudge: Stir in 1 cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds, after adding the marshmallow fluff and vanilla extract.
Peanut Butter Fudge: Add ½ cup of smooth peanut butter to the mixture along with the marshmallow fluff for a rich peanut butter flavor.
Mint Chocolate Fudge: Substitute the vanilla extract with 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract and sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top before refrigerating.
Dark Chocolate Fudge: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a more intense chocolate flavor.
Salted Caramel Fudge: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the fudge and sprinkle with sea salt before it sets for a sweet and salty twist.
Conclusion
My Mom’s Fudge is a timeless treat that combines rich, chocolatey goodness with the creamy texture of marshmallow fluff. It’s an easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, from holiday celebrations to simple family gatherings. The straightforward steps and minimal ingredients make it an accessible recipe for even novice bakers.
What makes this fudge truly special is the memories and joy it brings, whether you’re making it for the first time or recreating a beloved family tradition. Its versatility allows you to experiment with different flavors and ingredients, ensuring there’s always something new to enjoy. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in the delightful experience of making and savoring My Mom’s Fudge.
