Classic Old-Fashioned Chocolate Fudge (Ultra Creamy & Firm)

Ingredients

  • 3 cups granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup whole milk
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (good quality)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Optional (for extra richness)

  • 100 g dark chocolate, chopped
  • ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk (makes it smoother)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pan
    Line a rectangular dish or loaf pan with parchment paper. Lightly butter it. Set aside.
  2. Mix dry ingredients
    In a heavy saucepan, add sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Whisk well to remove lumps.
  3. Add milk and butter
    Pour in the milk and add the butter. Stir gently over medium heat until butter melts and mixture is smooth.
  4. Bring to a boil
    Once it starts boiling, stop stirring. Let it boil 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
    (If using a thermometer: 115–118°C / soft-ball stage)
  5. Remove from heat
    Take the pan off the heat. Let it sit 2 minutes without touching.
  6. Add vanilla & chocolate
    Add vanilla extract. If using dark chocolate or condensed milk, add now.
  7. Beat the fudge
    Using a wooden spoon, beat vigorously for 3–5 minutes until the mixture thickens, loses its shine, and becomes creamy.
  8. Pour & smooth
    Immediately pour into the prepared pan. Smooth the top quickly.
  9. Set
    Let it cool at room temperature for 2–3 hours or refrigerate for 1 hour.
  10. Slice
    Lift out, cut into thick slices or squares like in the photo.

Texture & Taste

  • Dense and smooth
  • Not crumbly
  • Deep chocolate flavor
  • Clean slices
  • Melt-in-your-mouth finish

Storage

  • Room temperature: 3 days (covered)
  • Refrigerator: up to 10 days
  • Freezer: 2 months (wrap tightly)

Variations

  • Add chopped nuts (walnuts or peanuts)
  • Swirl in peanut butter
  • Sprinkle flaky salt on top
  • Add a little espresso powder for intense chocolate

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