Why Make This Recipe
Old Fashioned Fudge is a delightful treat that brings back memories of simpler times. Its rich, creamy texture and sweet chocolate flavor make it a favorite for many. This recipe is easy to follow and requires just a few simple ingredients, making it perfect for both seasoned bakers and beginners. Making your own fudge can be a fun activity, bringing family and friends together, or simply treating yourself to a homemade indulgence.
How to Make Old Fashioned Fudge
Ingredients
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 tablespoons Hershey’s cocoa
- 1 stick of salted butter
- 1 (5 ounce) can of Carnation evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- Nuts (optional)
Directions
- In a saucepan, mix together the sugar and cocoa.
- Add the stick of butter and the can of evaporated milk to the saucepan.
- Stir the mixture continuously until it begins to boil.
- Once boiling, keep stirring for about 7 minutes.
- After 7 minutes, remove the saucepan from heat and add the vanilla.
- Stir the mixture continuously for an additional 3 minutes.
- Finally, pour the fudge into a buttered baking dish to let it set.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Fudge
You can serve Old Fashioned Fudge in small squares or rectangles. It makes a great dessert for parties, special occasions, or a sweet treat any day. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle chopped nuts on top before it sets or serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
How to Store Old Fashioned Fudge
To keep your fudge fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Fudge can last for up to two weeks. If you want to keep it longer, you can also refrigerate it, where it can last for a month or more.
Tips to Make Old Fashioned Fudge
- Make sure to stir continuously while cooking to prevent the fudge from burning.
- If the fudge is too soft, it may need a little more cooking time before taking it off the heat.
- For a different flavor, consider adding marshmallows or chocolate chips to the mixture before it sets.
Variation
You can create different flavors of fudge by mixing in ingredients like peanut butter, mint extract, or even caramel swirls. Experiment with different nuts or flavorings to find your perfect combination!
FAQs
1. Can I use unsweetened cocoa powder instead of Hershey’s cocoa?
Yes, unsweetened cocoa powder works well. Just make sure it is a high-quality cocoa for the best flavor.
2. How can I tell if my fudge is set?
Fudge is set when it is firm to the touch and holds its shape. You can also test it by cutting a piece; it should hold together without crumbling.
3. Is it necessary to use evaporated milk?
Yes, evaporated milk is key to achieving that rich, creamy texture in traditional fudge. Regular milk may not provide the same result.

Old Fashioned Fudge
Ingredients
Method
- In a saucepan, mix together the sugar and cocoa.
- Add the stick of butter and the can of evaporated milk to the saucepan.
- Stir the mixture continuously until it begins to boil.
- Once boiling, keep stirring for about 7 minutes.
- After 7 minutes, remove the saucepan from heat and add the vanilla.
- Stir the mixture continuously for an additional 3 minutes.
- Finally, pour the fudge into a buttered baking dish to let it set.