Old Fashioned Fudge: A Timeless Sweet Treat

There’s something magical about Old Fashioned Fudge—rich, creamy, and perfectly sweet, it’s a candy that instantly takes you back to cozy kitchens and holiday traditions. Unlike modern fudge recipes that rely heavily on pre-made mixes, this version focuses on classic techniques and simple ingredients, giving you a truly indulgent homemade treat. Follow this step-by-step guide to make fudge that melts in your mouth and leaves everyone asking for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For a traditional batch of fudge (about 2 lbs or 1 kg), gather the following:

3 cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsalted butter (1½ sticks)
2/3 cup whole milk
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 (7 oz / 200 g) can sweetened condensed milk
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)
½ tsp salt
Optional: 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Lightly butter the parchment to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Sugar Mixture

In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, butter, and milk.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves.
Once it begins to boil, continue stirring for 5–7 minutes, allowing the mixture to reach a smooth, syrupy consistency.

Tip: Stirring constantly prevents the sugar from crystallizing too early and ensures a smooth fudge texture.

Step 3: Add the Chocolate

Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the chocolate chips until fully melted.
Add the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until smooth and creamy.
If desired, fold in chopped nuts for a crunchy texture.