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Classic Fantasy Fudge

Total Time: 20 minutesServes: 36Difficulty: Medium
Classic Fantasy Fudge recipe image

Classic Fantasy Fudge sets into rich, sliceable squares with a smooth chocolate texture.

Provided by Chef Katy

Total Time 20 minutes

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes

Yield 36

Number of Ingredients 7

About This Recipe

Classic Fantasy Fudge works best when the batter or filling is handled gently.

Give cups granulated sugar and cup unsalted butter enough attention, then bake or chill until the dessert holds its shape.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup (1½ sticks) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • ⅔ cup evaporated milk
  • 3 packages (4 ounces each) Baker’s Semi-Sweet Chocolate, broken into pieces (or 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips)
  • 1 jar (7 ounces) Jet-Puffed Marshmallow Creme
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup chopped nuts (optional, e.g., walnuts or pecans)

Ingredient Notes

  • Chocolate: Choose chocolate or cocoa with a flavor you enjoy on its own.
  • Butter: Use the texture called for in the recipe, whether melted or softened.
  • Seasoning: Season in layers so the finished dish is not flat.
  • Texture: Stop cooking when the main ingredient reaches the intended tenderness.

Instructions

  1. 1

    **Prepare Your Pan:** Grease a 13×9-inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. Set aside.

  2. 2

    **Combine Sugar, Butter, and Milk:** In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, butter pieces, and evaporated milk.

  3. 3

    **Bring to a Boil:** Place over medium heat. Stir constantly until butter is melted and sugar is dissolved. Bring to a full rolling boil (bubbles cannot be stirred down).

  4. 4

    **Cook for 5 Minutes:** Boil for exactly 5 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent scorching.

  5. 5

    **Remove from Heat and Add Chocolate:** Take off heat. Add chocolate pieces and marshmallow creme. Stir vigorously until chocolate is melted and mixture is smooth.

  6. 6

    **Stir in Vanilla and Nuts (Optional):** Add vanilla extract and chopped nuts (if using). Stir until evenly distributed.

  7. 7

    **Pour into Prepared Pan:** Quickly pour the hot fudge into the prepared pan.

  8. 8

    **Cool and Set:** Allow to cool completely at room temperature for 2-3 hours, or refrigerate for 1 hour, until firmly set.

  9. 9

    **Cut and Serve:** Once set, lift fudge out of the pan using parchment paper. Cut into 1-inch squares with a sharp knife.

Katy’s Kitchen Note: Let the dessert cool or chill fully before cutting when structure matters.

Katy’s Kitchen Tips

  • Measure carefully for consistent texture.
  • Scrape the bowl so everything mixes evenly.
  • Avoid overmixing once flour or whipped cream is added.
  • Cool or chill as directed before slicing or decorating.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Chocolate finish: Add chopped chocolate, cocoa, or ganache if it suits the dessert.
  • Fruit topping: Serve with berries, citrus, or a spoonful of jam.
  • Nutty version: Add toasted nuts for crunch.
  • Mini portions: Bake or chill in smaller portions and check earlier.

What to Serve With Classic Fantasy Fudge

Serve Classic Fantasy Fudge with coffee, tea, whipped cream, berries, or vanilla ice cream.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers covered at room temperature or in the refrigerator based on the filling.

Freeze sturdy baked portions well wrapped, then thaw gently before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overmixing: Too much mixing can make desserts dense.
  • Skipping cooling time: Warm desserts can crumble, melt, or slice poorly.
  • Old leavening: Expired baking powder or soda can prevent a good rise.
  • Wrong measurements: Small measurement changes can affect texture.

FAQ

Can I make Classic Fantasy Fudge ahead?

Yes. Many desserts can be baked, chilled, or portioned ahead.

How do I know Classic Fantasy Fudge is done?

Use the doneness sign named in the instructions, such as set edges, a clean tester, or a gentle jiggle.

Can I freeze it?

Most sturdy baked desserts freeze well when tightly wrapped.

Why is the texture heavy?

Overmixing, too much flour, or not enough cooling time can make the texture heavy.

Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: 180 calories
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Sodium: 35mg
  • Sugar: 25g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g