My Mom’s Fudge is a timeless dessert that brings comfort, sweetness, and a little nostalgia with every bite. Smooth, creamy, and full of chocolate flavor, this fudge is perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy anytime. It’s a recipe that is simple to make but yields a rich and indulgent dessert that everyone will love.
To make this fudge, you will need a few basic ingredients. You will need 2 and 1/2 cups of white granulated sugar, 3/4 cup of butter, and 2/3 cup of evaporated milk. For the chocolate component, use a 12-ounce package of semi-sweet chocolate chips, which is roughly 2 cups. The marshmallow element comes from a 7-ounce jar of marshmallow cream, also called marshmallow fluff. Finally, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract is added to enhance the flavor and create a smooth, fragrant finish.
Begin by preparing your baking pan. A square pan, approximately 8×8 or 9×9 inches, works well for this recipe. Lightly grease the pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent the fudge from sticking and to make it easier to remove after setting. This small step will help ensure your fudge comes out clean and smooth.
The first step in making the fudge is to combine the sugar, butter, and evaporated milk in a medium saucepan. Place the pan over medium heat and stir continuously until the mixture comes to a full rolling boil. A rolling boil means that the mixture is bubbling vigorously and will not stop bubbling when stirred. Once it reaches this stage, allow it to boil for about 4 to 5 minutes, continuing to stir constantly. This ensures that the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture thickens properly, which is crucial for achieving a creamy fudge texture.
After boiling, remove the saucepan from heat and add the chocolate chips. Stir the mixture thoroughly until the chocolate melts completely and the mixture is smooth. The heat from the sugar and milk mixture will help the chocolate blend seamlessly, creating a luscious chocolate base for the fudge.
Next, add the marshmallow cream. Gently fold the marshmallow cream into the chocolate mixture, stirring until fully incorporated. The marshmallow adds creaminess and gives the fudge a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes it so special. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor and add a subtle, aromatic sweetness. At this stage, the mixture should be thick, glossy, and perfectly combined.
Pour the fudge into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Smooth the top as much as possible to create an even surface. You may also add toppings if you like, such as chopped nuts or a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips, but this is optional.
Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for several hours until it is set. For faster results, you can place the pan in the refrigerator for about an hour. Once firm, use a sharp knife to cut the fudge into squares or rectangles. The pieces can be as large or small as you like, though smaller squares are ideal because fudge is rich and sweet, and a little goes a long way.
My Mom’s Fudge can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, making it a convenient treat to prepare in advance. If you wish to store it longer, refrigeration is also an option, where it can keep for several weeks. For extended storage, individual pieces can be wrapped and frozen, then thawed at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
This fudge is versatile and can be adapted to suit your tastes. You can experiment with different types of chocolate, such as milk chocolate or dark chocolate, or add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra texture. Some people enjoy a swirl of caramel or a sprinkle of sea salt on top to create a more decadent version. No matter how it is customized, the creamy texture and chocolatey richness remain the highlight of this dessert.
Making My Mom’s Fudge is not just about the end result; it is also about the experience. Stirring the mixture on the stove, watching it thicken, and smelling the rich chocolate aroma brings a sense of comfort and nostalgia. This recipe has been enjoyed by families for generations and continues to be a favorite because it is simple, delicious, and filled with memories.
Whether served at holiday celebrations, packed into small gift boxes, or enjoyed as an everyday treat, My Mom’s Fudge is always a hit. Its combination of creamy texture, rich chocolate flavor, and soft sweetness makes it irresistible. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can recreate a beloved dessert that brings joy and satisfaction to everyone who tries it.