Fudge is a rich, sweet confection typically made from sugar, butter, and milk, cooked to the soft-ball stage and then beaten while it cools to create a smooth, creamy texture.

It originated in the late 19th century and it’s believed to have been invented in the U.S. when a sugar-based candy mixture was accidentally overcooked or "fudged" (hence the name)!

This happy accident resulted in a new type of sweet treat that became wildly popular. The original fudge was chocolate-based, but over the years, endless variations have emerged, giving fudge its place as a versatile and beloved candy.

EASIEST Fudge Recipe

Preppy Kitchen

Ingredients

- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (340gr)

- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk (396gr)

- 1 tsp vanilla extract

Time>/h3>

Preparation Time: About 10 minutes.

Setting Time: 2-3 hours.

Total Time: 3 hours at most.

Step-By-Step Recipe

1. Line a Pan: Start by lining an 8x8 inch square pan with parchment paper to make it easy to lift the fudge out once it's set.

2. Melt the Chocolate: Combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.

3. Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract for extra flavor.

4. Spread and Set: Pour the chocolate mixture into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Let it set at room temperature for 2-3 hours or refrigerate to speed up the process.

5. Cut and Serve: Once the fudge is firm, cut it into squares and enjoy!

Your Fudge Variations

While chocolate is the classic base for fudge, it’s far from the only flavor! Avoid using milk chocolate chips as they can make the fudge too sweet. Here are a few popular variations:

- Peanut Butter Fudge: Replace chocolate with peanut butter for a smooth, nutty flavor.

- Maple Walnut Fudge: Mix maple syrup and chopped walnuts for a sweet and crunchy experience.

- White Chocolate and Cranberry Fudge: Swap semi-sweet chocolate for white chocolate and add dried cranberries for a festive twist.

- Mint Chocolate Fudge: Add a few drops of peppermint extract for a refreshing minty touch.

You can also get creative by adding caramel, crushed cookies, or toffee pieces to personalize your fudge.

Fudge can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a week or in the fridge for two weeks. It’s also freezer-friendly for up to a month. Just make sure you thaw it in the fridge before serving.

Fudge can be enjoyed year-round, but it’s traditionally seen as a winter snack, often associated with the holiday season. The richness of fudge makes it perfect for cold-weather indulgence, paired with a warm drink like hot cocoa or coffee. However, its ease of storage and long shelf-life make it a great treat for summer picnics too.