Vanilla Fudge

Vanilla Fudge Recipe - Vegetarian Dessert from the USA

Region / culture: USA | Servings: 32 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Vanilla fudge is a classic sweet treat that is loved by many for its creamy texture and rich flavor. This indulgent dessert is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and is great for sharing with friends and family.

History

Fudge has been around for over a century and is believed to have originated in the United States. The exact origins of vanilla fudge are unclear, but it has become a popular variation of this beloved confection.

Ingredients

2 cups of sugar
1 cup of evaporated milk
1 tsp of light-colored corn syrup
0.25 cup of butter
1 tsp of vanilla
Broken nuts (optional)

How to prepare

1. Line an 8x4x2 inches loaf pan with foil, extending the foil over the edges of the pan. Butter the foil and set it aside.
2. Butter the sides of a heavy 2 qt (1.89 liter) saucepan. In the saucepan, combine sugar, evaporated milk, and corn syrup. Cook and stir over medium-high heat until boiling. Carefully clip a candy thermometer to the side of the pan. Cook over medium-low heat until it reaches 238°F, which is the soft-ball stage. Stir frequently during this process, which should take about 20 to 25 minutes.
3. Remove the saucepan from heat. Add butter and vanilla, but do not stir. Let it cool without stirring until it reaches 110°F (43°C), which should take about 45 minutes. Remove the candy thermometer from the saucepan. Carefully stir the butter into the cooked mixture until fully incorporated. Beat the mixture vigorously with a wooden spoon until the fudge becomes very thick, which should take about 8 minutes. Immediately spread the fudge into the prepared pan and score it into squares while it's still warm. If desired, top each square with a piece of nut. Once the candy is firm, use the foil to lift it out of the pan and cut it into squares. This recipe makes about 1 lb (454 g) and serves 32 people.

Variations

Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the fudge mixture for added texture and flavor.
Experiment with different extracts, such as almond or peppermint, for a unique twist on the classic vanilla fudge.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use a candy thermometer to ensure that the fudge reaches the soft-ball stage.

- Stir the fudge mixture frequently to prevent burning.

- Let the fudge cool to the proper temperature before stirring in the butter and vanilla.

- Beat the fudge vigorously to achieve the desired thick texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve vanilla fudge as a sweet treat after dinner or as a special snack for a party or gathering.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making perfect vanilla fudge is to cook the mixture to the soft-ball stage and beat it vigorously to achieve the desired texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use dark corn syrup instead of light-colored corn syrup for a slightly different flavor.

- Margarine can be used in place of butter for a dairy-free version of vanilla fudge.

Make Ahead Tips

Vanilla fudge can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

Cut the fudge into small squares and arrange them on a decorative platter for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve vanilla fudge with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a delicious and indulgent treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover vanilla fudge in an airtight container at room temperature. To reheat, microwave individual pieces for a few seconds until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of vanilla fudge contains approximately 120 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of vanilla fudge contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of vanilla fudge contains approximately 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of vanilla fudge contains approximately 1 gram of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Vanilla fudge is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Vanilla fudge contains dairy (butter) and nuts (if added), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy or nut allergies.

Summary

Vanilla fudge is a high-carb, high-calorie treat that should be enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

Vanilla fudge is a classic sweet treat that is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a delicious and creamy dessert that is sure to be a hit with friends and family. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha who lived in a quaint little cottage by the sea. As soon as I stepped inside, the sweet aroma of vanilla filled the air, and I knew something special was cooking in Martha's kitchen.

Martha greeted me with a warm smile and a hug, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "I'm making some vanilla fudge, dear," she said, gesturing towards the pot on the stove. "Would you like to learn how to make it?"

I nodded eagerly, my mouth watering at the thought of indulging in a sweet treat. Martha handed me a well-worn recipe card, the edges yellowed with age and stained with ingredients from years of use. As I read through the instructions, my heart swelled with anticipation. This was the beginning of a culinary journey that would shape my love for cooking forever.

Martha guided me through the steps, her hands deftly measuring out the ingredients and stirring the mixture with practiced precision. As the fudge began to take shape, I marveled at the transformation before my eyes. The once liquid concoction slowly thickened into a creamy mass, the scent of vanilla growing stronger with each passing minute.

After what felt like an eternity, Martha finally deemed the fudge ready. She poured it into a greased pan and smoothed the surface with a spatula, the rich brown mixture glistening under the warm kitchen light. As we waited for it to cool, Martha regaled me with stories of how she had first learned to make vanilla fudge from her own grandmother, a woman with a talent for turning simple ingredients into culinary delights.

As we finally indulged in a small square of the fudge, my taste buds exploded with pleasure. The creamy texture melted on my tongue, the sweet vanilla flavor leaving me craving more. I knew then and there that this recipe would become a cherished part of my own culinary repertoire.

Over the years, I perfected the art of making vanilla fudge, experimenting with different variations and techniques to create my own unique twist on the classic recipe. I shared it with friends and family, each bite evoking memories of lazy summer days spent in Martha's kitchen, learning the secrets of a beloved family tradition.

As I grew older, my love for cooking only deepened, and I found myself constantly seeking out new recipes to add to my collection. From savory stews to decadent desserts, each dish held a special place in my heart, a testament to the joy and comfort that food brought into my life.

And so, whenever I make a batch of vanilla fudge, I am transported back to that fateful day in Martha's kitchen, where a simple recipe sparked a lifelong passion for cooking. The sweet memories of that time spent with dear friends and loved ones infuse each bite with a warmth that can never be replicated.

As I sit here now, savoring a piece of vanilla fudge made with love and care, I am grateful for the culinary journey that has brought me to this moment. And I know that as long as there are recipes to be discovered and shared, my love for cooking will continue to grow, a legacy passed down from generation to generation.