Looking for an ideal gift to give your family and friends? Whether it’s the holidays or just a regular Sunday, this fudge makes the most excellent homemade present. Fudge is so wonderfully sweet, creamy, and chocolatey, and one bite is sure to capture your heart. Apart from the irresistible flavor and consistency, fudge has a long shelf life. This means you’ll get to enjoy it for days on end! It also couldn’t be easier to make. With this simple recipe, it’s impossible to fudge up fudge. Plus, this fudge only requires seven basic ingredients. You need not spend too much to show your loved ones how much you care. I’m pretty sure you’re already drooling, so let’s get started.
Carnation Fudge
Traditional fudge takes a lot of effort, but this recipe eliminates all those difficult steps and transforms fudge making into an easy-peasy process. But don’t worry, just because it’s simpler doesn’t mean it’s lacking in flavor. This fudge is just as smooth, creamy, and delicious as can be. With a simple combination of milk, sugar, chocolate, marshmallows, and a bit of salt and vanilla, you’ll get the ultimate fudge with the perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients
Evaporated Milk: Without dairy, your fudge will be too tough! You’ll want to use milk with a low water content because it makes it easier for the sugar to set post-cooking. That said, evaporated milk is your best option. Sugar: The recipe calls for granulated sugar, but you can use powdered sugar as well, especially if you want a smoother fudge. Salt: For a nice, salty contrast. Walnuts: For that lovely crunch. Other nuts, such as almonds, cashews, pecans, and hazelnuts work, too! Mini-Marshmallows: They add creaminess to the fudge and help it to set. Marshmallow Fluff works for this recipe as well. Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: They give the fudge just the right level of sweetness. If you want a deeper chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate. White chocolate works, too, especially if you have a sweet tooth. Whichever one you use, make sure you’re using high-quality chocolate. Vanilla Extract: For that extra depth of flavor.
Tips for the Best Fudge
Use high-quality ingredients. You’ll want to make sure you like the taste of the chocolate you’re using because it makes up the primary flavor of the fudge.To prevent the mini-marshmallows from sticking to the saucepan, grease it with cooking spray before adding them.Stir the mixture fast! Once the chocolate and marshmallows are in, the mixture will start to firm up. Stir it quickly with a metal spoon.Flavor the fudge with your favorite extracts. Stir it into the milk and sugar mixture before adding the chocolate and marshmallows.Sprinkle your fudge with a bit of sea salt for a sweet and salty contrast.To know when the sugar-milk mixture is ready to be removed from the heat, check the temperature using a candy thermometer. Once it reads 234 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s all set.Do not over-mix the fudge, otherwise, it won’t be spreadable or will be too tough. Stop stirring once the fudge turns into a thick, frosting-like consistency. It will also lose its sheen at this point.Want a sweeter fudge? Use white instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Add some dried fruits such as cranberries or cherries for a chewy contrast. They’ll also add a charming and festive pop of color.Timing is key! Be sure that all your ingredients are within reach before cooking. Be sure your pan is the right size. You don’t want the sugar to boil over the pan, so use a medium one with high sides. I do not recommend cooking fudge when it’s raining. Humidity can prevent your fudge from setting.Do not freeze the fudge and hope it sets much faster, otherwise, the consistency will be all off.Use a sharp knife when slicing the fudge. Wipe it clean with a damp cloth or napkin in between slices to ensure clean cuts.
How Long Does It Take for the Fudge to Set?
Waiting for the fudge to set is without a doubt the most challenging part about making it. It takes at least 3 hours to set at room temperature, otherwise, it won’t have that lovely consistency. If it’s humid in your area, your fudge might need more time to set. Cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and let it set in the fridge overnight. If your fudge does not set, here are the possible reasons:
- You didn’t cook the mixture long enough. The chocolate and mini-marshmallows need to be completely melted before you transfer the fudge into the pan.
- You didn’t measure the sugar accurately. The sugar is key to helping the fudge firm up. If you didn’t put enough in, chances are, your fudge will be too soft.
- You overdid the milk. Adding too much liquid will make the fudge too gooey.
How to Store Carnation Fudge
Place chocolate fudge in an airtight container and store it in the fridge. It will keep well for up to a month. If you want your fudge to last longer, keep it in the freezer for up to 6 months! Place fudge in an airtight container and separate each layer with a sheet of wax paper. Thaw frozen fudge in the fridge overnight before serving. Whatever you do, do not store fudge at room temperature for long periods of time. Otherwise, it will get really soft and gooey. Click on a star to rate it!
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