Traditional Chocolate Fudge Recipe

This traditional chocolate fudge recipe is easy to make and with just a handful or simple ingredients. This is the best homemade fudge recipe, and perfect for food gifts and treats throughout the holidays.

Made without condensed milk, this basic recipe is totally fuss free!

This chocolate fudge is an old fashioned recipe – just like Grandma used to make! It’s so perfect to give to friends and family as a gift across the holidays and beyond!

If you love decadent chocolate desserts, don’t skip this Pots de Crème recipe!

To Make Traditional Chocolate Fudge You Will Need:

You just need five ingredients to make these homemade candies!

• Sugar: Granulated
• Cocoa powder: Organic and unsweetened
• Whole milk
• Butter: You can use salted or unsalted in this recipe
• Vanilla extract: Pure is preferable over imitation

How to Make This Traditional Chocolate Fudge Recipe

1. Prepare a pan with butter and set aside.
2. Combine sugar, cocoa, and milk in a medium sauce pan over medium-low heat, stirring continuously.
3. Reduce heat and simmer and do not stir until it reaches (240 degrees using a candy thermometer).
4. Remove from heat. Add butter and vanilla.
5. Beat with a WOODEN spoon until the sheen looks dull (consider it your workout).
6. Pour into a prepared pan and allow it to spread. Allow it to cool before cutting.

Be Sure To Check Out My Other Homemade Fudge Recipes!

• Peanut Butter Fudge
• White Chocolate Fudge

Essential Equipment Needed to Make The Best Fudge

For the smoothest and creamiest traditional chocolate fudge, there are a few kitchen essentials that you will need to use:

• Saucepan: A heavy, straight sided saucepan is best to use, an aluminium or stainless steel one will work.
• Wooden spoon: Use a wooden, not a metal spoon to beat the fudge as it doesn’t conduct heat.
• Candy thermometer: A candy thermometer is highly recommended so you know precisely when the fudge has reached the correct temperature. If you are in a pinch, you can also test a little of the fudge mixture in a glass of ice water and if it forms a ball, it is at the right temperature.

What Makes Fudge Grainy?

Over stirring the fudge can cause large sugar crystals to form, and these can make your fudge grainy. Do not stir or shake the pan until it reaches 240 degrees to prevent a grainy texture. Resist the temptation and you’ll get yummy classic chocolate fudge, every time.

How Long Does Homemade Fudge Last?

Homemade fudge can last up to three weeks if stored correctly. Once set, wrap the fudge in plastic wrap or foil and store in an airtight container, this will protect the fudge from losing moisture, which can make it dry and crumbly. You can store the fudge in the fridge to extend it’s shelf life further.

Traditional Chocolate Fudge is the Perfect Homemade Food Gift!

Because fudge has a relatively long shelf life, it makes a great food gift! Cut it into squares, or shapes like I’ve done and decorated with colored sprinkles. It’s a great gift for Christmas, Valentines, birthdays and Mother’s Day!

Top Tips to Make This Traditional Chocolate Fudge Recipe

• Do not use a metal spoon to stir and beat the fudge.
• It’s best to use a candy thermometer to know exactly when the fudge has reached the correct temperature.
• Store the fudge in an airtight container.
• Fudge makes a great gift for friends and family – place it in small bags and decorated with a ribbon and name tag for the personal touch.

The Best Homemade Candy Recipes

• Sprinkled Toffee Homemade Candy
• Leftover Halloween Candy Bars
• Butterscotch Squares
• Saltine Toffee Easter Treats
• Peanut Clusters
• Cracker Toffee
• Cookie Dough Truffles