Wilton Basic Fudge

Wilton Basic Fudge Recipe | USA | Half-and-Half, Sugar, Chocolate, Corn Syrup, Butter & Vanilla

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 18 minutes | Servings: 16

Introduction

Wilton Basic Fudge is a classic and delicious treat that is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. This rich and creamy fudge is easy to make and is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

The origins of fudge can be traced back to the late 19th century in the United States. It is believed that fudge was first created when a batch of caramel candy was accidentally "fudged" or cooked to a soft, creamy consistency. Since then, fudge has become a popular confection enjoyed by people all over the world.

Ingredients

0.67 cup (160 ml) half-and-half
2 cup (480 ml or 400 g) granulated sugar
2 (2 oz (57 g)) square unsweetened chocolate
2 tbsp (30 ml) light corn syrup
2 tbsp (30 ml) butter, cut into thin slices
1 pinch of salt
1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla

How to prepare

Chop the chocolate into coarse pieces.
Line a square pan measuring 6" (15.2 cm) with foil and lightly butter the foil.
In a heavy saucepan with a capacity of 3 qt (3 liters), combine all the ingredients except vanilla.
Place the pan over medium heat and stir constantly with a wooden spoon until all the sugar crystals are dissolved.
Using a pastry brush dipped in hot water, wash down the sides of the pan; then attach a thermometer.
Stir the mixture occasionally.
Once the temperature reaches 236°F (113°C) (113°F), immediately remove the pan from heat.
Leave the thermometer in its position.
The total cooking time should be about 18 minutes.
Place the vanilla on the surface of the mixture.
Do not stir or move the pan until the thermometer registers 110°F (43°C) (43°F), which should take approximately 30 minutes.
Beat the mixture vigorously with a wooden spoon until it loses some of its gloss, turns a lighter color, and thickens. This should take about 10 minutes.
Turn the mixture into the prepared pan and press lightly with a spoon to level the surface.
Do not scrape the pan.
Allow the candy to cool at room temperature for about 40 minutes, then cut it into 1" (2.5 cm) squares. Alternatively, you can wrap the uncut candy tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 1 month.

Variations

Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the fudge mixture for added texture and flavor.
Swirl in a tablespoon of peanut butter or caramel sauce for a fun twist on the classic recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use a heavy saucepan when making fudge to prevent scorching.

- Stir the fudge mixture constantly to ensure that the sugar crystals are fully dissolved.

- Use a candy thermometer to accurately gauge the temperature of the fudge mixture.

- Allow the fudge to cool completely before cutting into squares for the best results.

Serving Suggestions

Wilton Basic Fudge is perfect for serving at parties, as a gift, or as a special treat for yourself. Enjoy it with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a delicious snack.

Cooking Techniques

Use a candy thermometer to accurately gauge the temperature of the fudge mixture.

- Be sure to stir the fudge mixture constantly to prevent scorching.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use dark chocolate instead of unsweetened chocolate for a richer flavor.

- Honey or maple syrup can be used as a substitute for corn syrup.

Make Ahead Tips

Wilton Basic Fudge can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. Simply wrap the uncut fudge tightly in foil or plastic wrap to keep it fresh.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Wilton Basic Fudge on a decorative platter or in a gift box for a beautiful presentation. You can also sprinkle the fudge with sea salt or cocoa powder for a finishing touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Wilton Basic Fudge pairs well with a variety of beverages, including coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. It also goes well with fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Wilton Basic Fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply microwave the fudge for a few seconds until warm and creamy.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Wilton Basic Fudge contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Wilton Basic Fudge contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Wilton Basic Fudge contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Wilton Basic Fudge contains approximately 1 gram of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Wilton Basic Fudge does not contain significant amounts of vitamins or minerals.

Alergens

Wilton Basic Fudge contains dairy and may contain traces of nuts.

Summary

Wilton Basic Fudge is a sweet and indulgent treat that is best enjoyed in moderation due to its high sugar and fat content.

Summary

Wilton Basic Fudge is a classic and delicious treat that is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. This rich and creamy fudge is easy to make and is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy this indulgent dessert in moderation for a special treat.

How did I get this recipe?

It feels like just yesterday when I stumbled upon this recipe for Wilton Basic Fudge. I was a young girl of 10, living in a small town nestled in the hills of the countryside. My mother had been feeling under the weather for days and I wanted to do something special for her to lift her spirits. I remembered hearing my aunt talk about a delicious fudge recipe she had learned from a friend in the neighboring town. Determined to make something sweet for my mother, I set out on a mission to find this recipe.

I walked over to my aunt's house, a quaint little cottage with a garden full of blooming flowers. The smell of freshly baked bread wafted through the air as I knocked on her door. She greeted me with a warm smile and invited me in. I shyly asked her about the fudge recipe and her eyes lit up with excitement. She rummaged through her old recipe box and pulled out a yellowed piece of paper with the recipe written in neat cursive.

"This is it," she said, handing me the recipe. "It's a simple recipe, but it makes the most delicious fudge you'll ever taste."

I thanked my aunt profusely and hurried back home to start baking. I carefully measured out the ingredients – sugar, butter, milk, and cocoa powder – and followed the instructions to a tee. As the fudge cooked on the stove, filling the kitchen with a rich, chocolatey aroma, I couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. I knew my mother would love this sweet treat.

When the fudge was finally ready, I poured it into a pan and let it cool before cutting it into squares. The fudge was smooth and creamy, with a hint of bitterness from the cocoa powder that balanced out the sweetness perfectly. I couldn't wait to surprise my mother with this delicious treat.

As I presented the fudge to my mother, her eyes lit up with joy. She took a bite and savored the rich, chocolaty flavor.

"This is amazing, dear," she said, giving me a hug. "You have a talent for baking just like your grandmother."

From that day on, I became known as the fudge maker in our family. I would make batches of fudge for every special occasion – birthdays, holidays, and even just because. The recipe became a staple in our household, passed down from generation to generation.

Years passed, and I continued to make the Wilton Basic Fudge recipe, tweaking it here and there to suit my taste. I added a sprinkle of sea salt for a touch of savory goodness, or a handful of chopped nuts for a crunchy texture. Each batch was a labor of love, reminding me of that first time I made fudge for my dear mother.

As I grew older, I started experimenting with different variations of the fudge recipe. I would add a splash of vanilla extract for a fragrant aroma, or swap out the cocoa powder for melted chocolate for a richer flavor. Each new twist on the classic recipe brought a burst of creativity to my baking endeavors.

One day, while browsing through a cookbook at the local library, I stumbled upon a recipe for Wilton Basic Fudge that was similar to the one I had been making for years. I was surprised to see that the recipe had been around for decades, passed down through generations of bakers just like me.

I read through the recipe, comparing it to the one I had memorized by heart. The ingredients were the same – sugar, butter, milk, and cocoa powder – but the method of preparation was slightly different. Intrigued, I decided to try out this new version of the fudge recipe.

As I made the fudge according to the cookbook's instructions, I noticed subtle differences in the texture and flavor of the fudge. The fudge was smoother and creamier, with a more intense chocolate flavor that lingered on the palate. I was delighted to discover a new way of making this beloved treat, adding a fresh twist to an old favorite.

Since then, I have continued to make the Wilton Basic Fudge recipe, combining elements of both the old and new versions to create a fudge that is truly my own. Each batch is a reminder of the joy and love I have poured into my baking over the years, shared with friends and family who appreciate the simple pleasures of a homemade treat.

As I look back on my journey with this recipe, I am grateful for the memories and experiences it has brought into my life. The Wilton Basic Fudge recipe will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the simple joy of baking and sharing delicious treats with the ones we love.