Old Fashioned Fudge (Print Version)

Ingredients:

01 - 2 cups sugar.
02 - 1/2 cup milk.
03 - 1/2 cup butter (1 stick).
04 - 1/2 cup cocoa.
05 - 1/4 tsp salt.
06 - 1 tsp vanilla extract.

Instructions:

01 - In a medium, heavy pot, whisk together 2 cups of sugar, 1/2 cup cocoa, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until combined. Switch to a wooden spoon, then gradually stir in 1/2 cup milk and add 1/2 cup butter.
02 - Bring the mixture to a full rapid boil that cannot be stirred down. Boil for exactly 3 minutes and 45 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
03 - Remove the pot from the heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to preserve its flavor. Cool the mixture for no more than 5 minutes.
04 - Using a hand-held mixer or a stand mixer with a whisk attachment, beat the fudge on low speed, gradually moving to high speed. Beat for 5-10 minutes until the fudge becomes creamy and loses its shininess.
05 - As you beat, the fudge will start to thicken on the edges of the bowl and become creamy and dull rather than shiny. When the fudge reaches this consistency, pour and spread it immediately on your cake or brownies.
06 - Top with nuts, if desired, immediately after spreading the fudge.

Notes:

01 - This Old Fashioned Fudge recipe brings a classic, rich chocolate flavor with a smooth, creamy texture. The careful boiling and beating process ensures the fudge reaches the perfect consistency for spreading over cakes or brownies, or to enjoy on its own.