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The moment I unwrap a piece of fudge and let it melt on my tongue, I’m transported back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, where the scent of chocolate and love mingled in the air. This isn’t just any fudge; it’s Grandma’s Old Fashioned Fudge—a timeless recipe that has warmed hearts and satisfied sweet cravings for generations.

I stumbled upon this treat while rummaging through my collection of family recipes, dusting off that faded card filled with her neat handwriting. Each ingredient, from the rich cocoa powder to the velvety half-and-half, paints a picture of simplicity and indulgence.

With no more than a handful of everyday ingredients, this fudge is a delightful antidote to our fast-food frenzy, ready to impress friends and family alike. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a gathering with loved ones, this recipe brings a touch of nostalgia that evokes shared moments and sweet smiles. Ready to whip up a batch of this creamy, dream-like fudge? Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Why will you adore Grandma’s Old Fashioned Fudge?

Simplicity: This recipe uses just a handful of common ingredients, making it accessible for everyone—no fancy equipment needed!

Nostalgic Flavor: The rich, chocolatey taste will remind you of family gatherings, evoking warm memories with every bite.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a birthday celebration or a casual get-together, this fudge is a definite crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for more.

Quick Preparation: In less than 30 minutes, you can prepare this delicious fudge and watch it disappear at your next gathering.

Versatility: Enjoy it plain or customize it with nuts, marshmallows, or other mix-ins for your own twist.

Dive into this classic delight, and if you’re looking for more sweet inspirations, don’t miss my post on decadent dessert ideas!

Grandma’s Old Fashioned Fudge Ingredients

• Let’s create some delightful fudge!

For the Fudge

Granulated sugar – a key ingredient that sweetens and structures the fudge perfectly.
Cocoa powder – essential for that rich, chocolatey flavor that makes Grandma’s Old Fashioned Fudge irresistible.
Salt – just a pinch enhances the chocolate and balances sweetness.
Half-and-half – adds the creamy texture that makes each bite heavenly.
Corn syrup – helps to keep the fudge smooth and prevents it from crystallizing.
Butter – brings richness and a luxurious mouthfeel to your fudge.
Vanilla extract – this subtle flavor elevates the overall taste profile of your fudge.

Enjoy the process of making this delightful treat that encapsulates the warmth of family traditions!

How to Make Grandma’s Old Fashioned Fudge

Combine Ingredients: In a 2-quart saucepan, mix together the sugar, cocoa powder, half-and-half, salt, and corn syrup. Whisk until smooth and well-blended, then place over medium-low heat. Bring it to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Cook to Temperature: Allow the mixture to cook without stirring until it reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer. This is the sweet spot for achieving that perfect fudgy texture! Once at temperature, remove it from heat immediately.
Add Butter and Vanilla: Place the butter and vanilla extract on top of the hot fudge mixture, but resist the urge to stir it in yet! Let it cool undisturbed for about 20 minutes, until the side of the pan feels warm, but not hot.
Beat the Fudge: Using a hand mixer on medium to low speed, beat the fudge mixture for 1 to 3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it starts to thicken and loses its shiny appearance, creating a beautiful, creamy texture.
Pour and Cool: Quickly pour or scoop the fudge into a buttered plate or dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, if needed. Allow the fudge to cool for around 20 minutes before cutting it into delightful one-inch squares.

Optional: Sprinkle with sea salt for an added gourmet touch before serving.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

Grandma’s Old Fashioned Fudge is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the fudge mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before beating and cooling. Just follow the first three steps of the recipe, then let the mixture cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight container. This helps maintain its creamy texture and flavor. When you’re ready to finish the recipe, simply add the butter and vanilla, beat the mixture, pour it into your dish, and allow it to set as directed. This way, you’ll have delicious fudge ready with minimal last-minute effort—perfect for busy weeknights or surprise gatherings!

Tips for the Best Grandma’s Old Fashioned Fudge

Candy Thermometer: Always use a candy thermometer to ensure your fudge reaches the perfect 240°F. This is crucial for the right texture; too low, and it’ll be soft, too high, and it’ll become grainy.
Cooling Time: Don’t rush the cooling phase after adding the butter and vanilla. Letting it cool undisturbed allows the fudge to set properly, ensuring a smooth and creamy consistency.
Hand Mixing: When beating the fudge, start at medium to low speed to avoid splatters. If beaten too long, the fudge may become too thick—stop when it just loses its shine.
Butter the Dish: Don’t skip buttering your dish before pouring in the fudge! It prevents sticking and allows for easy removal so you can cut perfect squares of Grandma’s Old Fashioned Fudge.
Custom Flavor Combinations: Feel free to personalize your fudge! Add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a swirl of peanut butter for an extra twist on this classic recipe.

What to Serve with Grandma’s Old Fashioned Fudge?

Looking to elevate your sweet spread? Let’s discover delightful pairings that complement this rich and creamy treat.

Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or raspberries cuts through the sweetness of fudge, creating a beautiful flavor contrast. A touch of cream alongside them adds a delightful richness.
Roasted Nuts: Crunchy, salted nuts, like almonds or pecans, provide a satisfying texture and a savory bite that balances the fudge’s smoothness. They can also act as a great topping for an added crunch.
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream not only enhances the fudge’s decadent feel but also adds a creamy element that can melt in your mouth. Top your fudge squares for a dreamy dessert experience!
Coffee: Pairing your fudge with a rich cup of coffee brings out the chocolate flavors. The bitterness of the brew complements the sweetness, making every bite and sip a true delight.
Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream creates an indulgent sundae when topped with fudge. The cold creaminess contrasts beautifully with the warm, rich fudge.
Chocolate Sauce: For the chocolate lovers, an extra drizzle of chocolate sauce makes this dessert doubly decadent! It’s a fun way to elevate your fudge experience.
Caramel Sauce: Adding a warm drizzle of caramel on your fudge offers a rich, sweet layering of flavors. The gooeyness combined with the fudge’s texture makes for a divine taste.
Hot Chocolate: Cozy up with a steaming cup of hot chocolate for a comforting treat! It enhances the fudgy experience and wraps you in warmth during the chilly evenings.

Make your dessert table unforgettable with these delicious pairings that will leave everyone craving more!

Grandma’s Old Fashioned Fudge Variations

Feel free to play around with this classic recipe and create your own personalized fudge masterpiece that tantalizes your taste buds!

Nutty Delight: Add 1 cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to the fudge for a crunchy contrast to its creamy texture. The rich flavor of the nuts pairs beautifully with the chocolate!
Marshmallow Swirl: Fold in mini marshmallows just before pouring the fudge into the dish for a delightful surprise. This twist not only adds sweetness but also a fun, chewy texture!
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a surprising heat that cuts through the sweetness. It’s a bold choice that makes each bite unforgettable!
Peanut Butter Perfection: Swirl in ½ cup of creamy peanut butter before pouring the fudge to add a smooth, nutty richness. The combination of chocolate and peanut butter is a match made in heaven!
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute half-and-half with coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free fudge that still packs a creamy punch. Your taste buds won’t miss a beat!
Flavor Infusion: Experiment with adding flavored extracts, like almond or peppermint, instead of vanilla. Just a teaspoon can infuse the fudge with a delightful twist for each season.
Chocolate Chip Add-In: Fold in ½ cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for extra chocolatey goodness. This little addition takes the classic fudge to the next level of indulgence!
Zesty Citrus: Grate the zest of an orange or lemon into the mixture before cooking to bring a fresh, zesty flavor to the fudge. It’s an unexpected and refreshing twist that brightens up every square!

How to Store and Freeze Grandma’s Old Fashioned Fudge

Room Temperature: Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keep it in a cool, dry place to maintain its soft texture.

Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving to enhance its creaminess.

Freezer: Wrap fudge tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

Reheating: If you prefer warm fudge, reheat gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, ensuring it doesn’t melt too much—just enough to get that delightful, melty texture back!

Grandma’s Old Fashioned Fudge Recipe FAQs

What type of cocoa powder should I use for Grandma’s Old Fashioned Fudge?
Absolutely! For the richest flavor, I recommend using unsweetened cocoa powder. This helps to balance the sweetness of the sugar and achieves that classic chocolatey taste that makes this fudge so special.

How long can I store Grandma’s Old Fashioned Fudge?
To keep your fudge at its best, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to 2 weeks. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before serving to enhance its creamy goodness!

Can I freeze Grandma’s Old Fashioned Fudge?
Certainly! To freeze, wrap your fudge tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. To defrost, simply move it to the fridge overnight. This way, you’ll have nostalgic treats on hand whenever the craving strikes!

Why did my fudge not set properly?
Very! If your fudge didn’t set, it’s often because it didn’t reach the proper temperature of 240°F. Use a candy thermometer for accuracy! If it’s too soft, you could reheat it gently, adding a bit more sugar to adjust the texture, and then cook until it reaches the right temperature.

Is Grandma’s Old Fashioned Fudge safe for pets?
No, it’s best to keep this fudge away from your furry friends. Ingredients like chocolate and cocoa can be toxic to dogs and other pets, so enjoy this delightful treat just for yourself and your loved ones.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the fudge?
The more the merrier! Feel free to customize your fudge by adding in chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even a swirl of peanut butter for added flavor. Just fold them in gently before pouring the fudge into your prepared dish!