Decadent Dark Chocolate Fudge
- A Quick Intro to Chocolate Fudge Heaven
- Mary Berry Would Approve: Quick Overview
- Main Benefits of This Fudge
- Get Ready to Gather Your Ingredients!
- Kitchen Kit
- Ingredients & Equipment for Fudge Success
- Let's Get Cracking: Prep Steps
- Easy Chocolate Fudge: Step-by-Step
- Homemade Fudge Recipes: Pro Tips
- Recipe Notes
- Frequently Asked Questions
Decadent Dark Chocolate Fudge
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
| Calories | 200-250 kcal |
|---|---|
| Fat | 12-15g |
| Fiber | 2-3g |
Okay, let's get cracking on some proper fudge! ever find yourself craving something intensely chocolatey? me too! so, let's dive into this decadent dark chocolate fudge recipe.
Honestly, this isn't just any fudge; it's a simple indulgence that'll have you saying "oh my gosh!" after the first bite.
A Quick Intro to Chocolate Fudge Heaven
Are you searching for fudge recipes chocolate that are also easy chocolate fudge ? you’ve come to the right place! this dark chocolate fudge recipe gives you a rich flavor and will melt in your mouth.
Fudge, in general, is a real treat. its exact origin is a bit of a mystery, but it’s become a classic sweet treat.
This recipe’s dead easy and meant for home cooks like you and me.
Mary Berry Would Approve: Quick Overview
It's so easy to make homemade fudge recipes now! Forget slaving away for hours. This is easy fudge recipe for beginners , no stress included.
Making classic chocolate fudge recipe is easier than you think! the recipe makes about 20-25 pieces of rich chocolate fudge , perfect for sharing… or not! it takes about 10 minutes to prep, 10 to cook, and a couple of hours (ideally overnight) to chill.
Patience, love, patience!
Main Benefits of This Fudge
This no bake chocolate fudge is seriously satisfying. dark chocolate, you know, is full of antioxidants, so it's practically healthy .
.. right? this fudge is perfect for parties, gifts, or when you just need a chocolate fix. what makes this recipe special? it’s reliable, simple, and delivers that intense chocolate hit every time.
Now, you're probably thinking: "Great, but what do I need ?".
Get Ready to Gather Your Ingredients!
Grab: 2 cups of sugar, 1 cup of heavy cream (the thick stuff), ½ cup of butter, ½ cup of cocoa powder, ½ cup of milk, a teaspoon of vanilla, 8 ounces of dark chocolate (at least 70%), and a pinch of sea salt, if you fancy it.
Kitchen Kit
For the cooking equipment. You'll need an 8x8 inch pan, some parchment paper, a saucepan (stainless steel is best), a candy thermometer (seriously, get one!), and a wooden spoon.
Right, let's get down to the nitty gritty. We're talking ingredients and kit for the best dark chocolate fudge recipe , yeah? Honestly, making this at home is easier than you think.
Ingredients & Equipment for Fudge Success
Okay, so you're thinking about trying an easy chocolate fudge recipe. Brilliant! Let's get you prepped. The quality of your ingredients really shines through. It really does, trust me.
Main Ingredients: the Stars of the Show
- Granulated Sugar: 2 cups (400g) – This is your base sweetness.
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup (240ml) – Gotta be 35% fat or higher for that richness. Don't skimp!
- Unsalted Butter: ½ cup (115g / 1 stick) , cubed Proper butter makes a difference.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: ½ cup (55g) , sifted Sifting prevents clumps, nobody wants lumpy fudge, right?
- Whole Milk: ½ cup (120ml) – Adds moisture and creaminess.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon – A flavour enhancer that brings it all together.
- Dark Chocolate: 8 ounces (225g) , finely chopped Aim for 70% cocoa solids . Honestly, the better the chocolate, the better the fudge.
- Sea Salt: ¼ teaspoon (optional) Brings out the sweetness!
If you are on the lookout for homemade fudge recipes , make sure to shop with high quality ingredients.
Seasoning Notes: Spice it Up (Or Not!)
For this classic chocolate fudge recipe , a dash of vanilla is usually enough. but hey, feel free to experiment! i sometimes add a pinch of cinnamon.
You know, just for a bit of warmth.
Essential spice combo: vanilla is the star here. for an extra kick, try adding a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper.
I swear it works. flavor enhancers: espresso powder! a half teaspoon will really deepen that chocolate flavour. quick subs: no vanilla extract? almond extract works in a pinch.
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
- 8x8 inch Baking Pan: This is your mould for the easy fudge recipe for beginners .
- Parchment Paper: Makes lifting the fudge out a breeze. No sticking!
- Heavy Bottomed Saucepan: Prevents scorching. Nobody wants burnt fudge.
- Candy Thermometer: Essential for accuracy! We're aiming for 235- 240° F (113- 115° C) . This is where your rich chocolate fudge is born.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring, obviously!
I have to be honest, making homemade fudge can be intimidating. but with the right stuff, you'll be golden. give it a go.
You might find that you could have fudge recipes easy enough to impress everyone at any party. it makes you look like you've got it all figured out.
Now, for those avoiding the oven, no bake chocolate fudge could also be the right choice, so, enjoy it.
Alright, let's talk chocolate fudge ! honestly, who doesn’t love it? it's one of those comfort foods that just makes everything better.
A good classic chocolate fudge recipe is a must have, like a proper cup of tea. i'm going to show you how to make a decadent dark chocolate fudge: a simple indulgence !
Let's Get Cracking: Prep Steps
First, mise en place is key. get everything measured out. it saves so much time. honestly, it's like having your own little sous chef.
You'll need your ingredients ready. line an 8x8 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang. this makes removing the fudge a doddle.
It avoids mess and stress. safety first, of course. make sure that you don't lick the spoon. believe me, it's tempting, but wait.
Easy Chocolate Fudge: Step-by-Step
Here's the magic, step-by-step.
- Combine 2 cups of sugar, 1 cup heavy cream, ½ cup cubed butter, ½ cup cocoa, and ½ cup milk in a saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves.
- Bring to a boil, clip on a candy thermometer, and cook to 235- 240° F .
- Remove from heat, and let cool for 5 minutes.
- Add 8 ounces chopped dark chocolate and 1 teaspoon vanilla.
- Stir gently until smooth.
- Pour into your lined pan. Sprinkle with sea salt.
- Chill for at least 2 hours , or overnight.
Homemade Fudge Recipes: Pro Tips
Want the best dark chocolate fudge recipe ? Here's some intel.
- Use good chocolate. It makes all the difference.
- Don’t overcook! 235- 240° F is the sweet spot.
- If you want to get organised and pre-make this, you can keep the fudge in the fridge, wrapped up for up to a week.
Fudge recipes easy are good, but following the temperatures is crucial. don’t worry if it’s not perfect the first time.
It’s all part of the fun. now get cooking for rich chocolate fudge .
Alright, so you've got your gorgeous dark chocolate fudge ready. Now what? Let's chat about a few extra bits and bobs to really make it shine! Honestly, these tips can make all the difference between "meh" and "OH MY GOSH, that's amazing!"
Recipe Notes
Serving Suggestions: Plating and Presentation Ideas
Presentation matters, yeah? i reckon a simple square of rich chocolate fudge looks fab on a pretty plate. a dusting of cocoa powder, or even a tiny sprig of mint, makes it fancy.
You know? and don't be shy about pairing it! a strong cuppa, or a cheeky glass of dessert wine, is just chef's kiss .
I like to serve mine with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. it's a classic, like a good bake off episode!
Storage Tips: Keeping That Fudge Perfect
Right, so you've made a batch of this easy chocolate fudge , but you can't eat it all at once (can you?). Here's the lowdown on storage.
Refrigeration Guidelines: In the fridge, it'll last about a week. Wrap it well! Nobody wants fridge flavored fudge.
Freezing Options (If Applicable): Honestly, freezing fudge is a bit risky. But, if you must, wrap it tight in cling film and then foil. It might get a bit crumbly, mind.
Reheating Instructions: Best served cold or at room temp, innit . Just let it sit for a bit if it's been in the fridge.
Variations: Getting Creative with Your Fudge
Fancy a twist? Here's how to make it your own.
Dietary Adaptations: Wanna make it vegan? Swap out the butter and cream for coconut oil and coconut milk. Boom, vegan fudge! Just make sure your chocolate is vegan too, yeah .
Seasonal ingredient swaps: in autumn, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. in summer, maybe some orange zest? ooh, fancy ! it's like giving your fudge recipes easy a little hug from the season.
Nutrition Basics: A Little Bit of What You Fancy...
Okay, let's be real. this classic chocolate fudge recipe isn't health food. but, a little bit of what you fancy does you good.
Right? it has energy (calories), some fat, and obviously sugar. plus, dark chocolate has antioxidants! so, you know, enjoy in moderation.
Okay, now you're ready to tackle this easy fudge recipe for beginners ! remember, it's your fudge, so have fun and make it your own.
Don't worry if it doesn't look perfect the first time. practice makes perfect, like baking a victoria sponge! go on, give it a go! you can make this homemade fudge !
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my chocolate fudge turn out grainy? Is it salvageable?
Grainy fudge is often caused by sugar crystals forming during the cooking process. This usually happens if the sugar isn't fully dissolved or if the mixture is stirred too much while cooling.
Sadly, it's tricky to salvage grainy fudge completely, but you can try melting it down with a little extra cream and butter, being very careful not to overcook, and then re-setting it. It might not be perfect, but it could improve the texture!
Can I make chocolate fudge without a candy thermometer?
While a candy thermometer is highly recommended for accuracy, especially if you're aiming for that perfectly smooth, melt-in-your mouth texture, it's not strictly essential. You can use the "soft ball stage" test. Drop a small amount of the hot fudge mixture into a bowl of ice water.
If it forms a soft, pliable ball that flattens easily when you remove it, it's ready. Just be aware that without a thermometer, it's a bit like flying by the seat of your pants results may vary!
How long does chocolate fudge last, and what's the best way to store it?
Properly stored, chocolate fudge will last for about 1-2 weeks at room temperature or up to 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator. To keep it fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper, then store it in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months.
Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving mind you, freezing may slightly alter the texture.
I want to try a variation! Can I add nuts or other ingredients to my chocolate fudge?
Absolutely! Adding nuts, dried fruit, or even a swirl of peanut butter can elevate your chocolate fudge. Stir in about ½ cup of your chosen additions after the chocolate has melted and the mixture is smooth. Think walnuts, pecans, dried cranberries, or even a drizzle of salted caramel for a real treat.
Get creative and have a go!
Is this chocolate fudge recipe suitable for vegans, and what substitutions can I make?
This specific recipe isn't vegan, but it's easily adapted! Substitute the heavy cream with full fat coconut milk and the butter with vegan butter. Make sure the dark chocolate you're using is also dairy free; many high quality dark chocolates are.
You might find that the coconut milk adds a slight coconutty flavour, but it's often quite subtle and complements the chocolate beautifully.
What kind of chocolate is best for making rich, decadent chocolate fudge?
The quality of the chocolate makes a huge difference in the final flavour of your chocolate fudge. Opt for a good quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa solids for that intense, rich, dark chocolate flavour. Using chocolate with a lower cocoa percentage will result in a sweeter, less intense fudge.
Think of it like choosing a fine wine the better the quality, the more enjoyable the experience!
