Cherish the sweetness of Old Fashioned Fudge! 🍫

Instructions

1. Prepare your pan:
   Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper and lightly butter it. Set aside.
2. Combine ingredients:
   In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and salt.
   Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to boil.
3. Boil without stirring:
   Once boiling, do not stir. Let it cook until it reaches 234°F (112°C) on a candy thermometer — the “soft ball” stage.
   (If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a little mixture into cold water — it should form a soft ball when rolled between your fingers.)
4. Add butter and vanilla:
   Remove from heat. Add butter and vanilla, but don’t stir yet.
   Let it cool to about 110°F (43°C) — just warm to the touch.
5. Beat until thick:
   Once cooled slightly, beat the mixture with a wooden spoon until it becomes thick, creamy, and loses its gloss (about 5–10 minutes).
6. Set and slice:
   Quickly pour into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
   Let it cool completely, then cut into squares.

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💡 Tips for Perfect Fudge

• Avoid stirring while boiling — that’s key to a smooth texture.
• Be patient when beating; stop as soon as it thickens.
• Add nuts, marshmallows, or swirls of peanut butter if you want a twist!

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🍬 Serving Idea

Wrap pieces in wax paper and store in a tin for a classic holiday treat — perfect for gifts or cozy evenings with a cup of coffee or milk.

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Would you like me to share a creamy condensed milk version too (easier, no thermometer needed)? It’s just as sweet and indulgent!