Melt-in-Your-Mouth Vanilla Fudge Recipe

This Melt-in-Your-Mouth Vanilla Fudge is a creamy, buttery treat that’s perfect for sharing or gifting. Made with simple ingredients like butter, sugar, and condensed milk, this classic dessert is smooth, rich, and bursting with vanilla flavor. Whether for a holiday spread or a sweet indulgence, it’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Flavor: The rich and creamy vanilla taste makes this fudge a timeless favorite.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, this recipe requires only six ingredients.
• Perfect for Gifting: Wrap up pieces of this fudge in decorative boxes for a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Beginner-Friendly: Straightforward steps make it easy, even for those new to candy-making.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 125 g unsalted butter
• 3 cups sugar
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 can sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Directions

1. Prepare Your Pan:
   Grease an 8×8-inch square baking dish and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the butter, sugar, milk, sweetened condensed milk, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer.
3. Cook the Fudge:
   Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking the mixture, stirring frequently, until it reaches 235°F (113°C) on a candy thermometer (soft-ball stage). This should take about 10-12 minutes. Be sure to stir regularly to prevent sticking or burning.
4. Add Vanilla:
   Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Continue stirring until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
5. Pour and Cool:
   Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Let it cool at room temperature for 2-3 hours, or until set.
6. Slice and Serve:
   Once the fudge is firm, lift it out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares and serve or store for later.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 24 small squares
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Cooling Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Add a Topping: Sprinkle chopped nuts, crushed candy canes, or sprinkles over the fudge before it sets.
• Chocolate Vanilla Swirl: Swirl melted dark or milk chocolate into the fudge mixture before it cools for a marbled effect.
• Salted Vanilla Fudge: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top for a sweet-and-salty twist.
• Festive Touch: Add a few drops of food coloring to the mixture for a colorful treat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
• Freezing: Freeze fudge in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheating: If the fudge hardens too much, warm it slightly in the microwave for 5-10 seconds to soften.

FAQs

1. Why is my fudge grainy?

Grainy fudge usually results from undissolved sugar. Stir constantly while heating and use a candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches the proper temperature.

2. Can I make this recipe without a candy thermometer?

While a candy thermometer is recommended for precision, you can test the soft-ball stage by dropping a small amount of the mixture into cold water. It should form a soft ball that flattens when removed.

3. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, but use a larger saucepan to prevent boiling over.

4. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt to avoid over-salting the fudge.

5. How do I cut the fudge neatly?

Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water, wiping it clean between cuts for smooth edges.

6. Can I substitute condensed milk with evaporated milk?

No, sweetened condensed milk adds the necessary sweetness and creaminess that evaporated milk lacks.

7. Can I add flavors to this fudge?

Absolutely! Try almond extract, peppermint extract, or a splash of rum for a festive variation.

8. What if my fudge doesn’t set?

If your fudge doesn’t set, it may not have reached the correct temperature. Reheat the mixture and cook to the soft-ball stage before pouring it back into the pan.

9. Can I make this fudge dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free butter and a plant-based condensed milk alternative.

10. How do I prevent burning the mixture?

Cook over medium-low heat and stir constantly to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking or burning.

Conclusion

This Melt-in-Your-Mouth Vanilla Fudge is a creamy, decadent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich vanilla flavor and smooth texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Whether you’re gifting it for the holidays or indulging in a homemade sweet, this fudge recipe is always a hit. Try it today and enjoy the deliciousness!

Melt-in-Your-Mouth Vanilla Fudge Recipe

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• Author: Asma
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• chill time: 2 hours
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 24 servings 1x
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

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Description

This creamy and classic vanilla fudge is a melt-in-your-mouth treat made with simple ingredients like butter, condensed milk, and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for sharing at parties or gifting during the holidays, this easy-to-make fudge is rich, smooth, and absolutely irresistible!

 

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 can (about 7 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 125 g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

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Instructions

• Prepare the Pan:
  • Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. Lightly grease the parchment paper.
• Heat the Ingredients:
  • In a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, milk, sweetened condensed milk, butter, and salt.
  • Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture begins to simmer.
• Boil the Mixture:
  • Once simmering, reduce the heat slightly and let the mixture boil gently. Stir constantly to prevent sticking, and use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature. Heat until it reaches soft ball stage (234°F/112°C).
• Remove from Heat and Add Vanilla:
  • Remove the saucepan from heat and allow it to cool for 5 minutes. Stir in the vanilla extract.
• Beat the Mixture:
  • Using a wooden spoon or a hand mixer, beat the fudge mixture until it thickens and begins to lose its glossy appearance. This step is essential for achieving the fudge’s creamy texture.
• Pour into the Pan:
  • Quickly pour the fudge into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
• Let It Set:
  • Allow the fudge to cool completely at room temperature for about 2 hours, or until firm. For quicker setting, refrigerate for 1 hour.
• Slice and Serve:
  • Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Slice into small squares and enjoy!

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Notes

• Storage: Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• Gift Idea: Wrap individual squares in parchment or wax paper for an elegant homemade holiday gift.
• Flavor Variations: Add chopped nuts, dried fruit, or white chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.