There’s a certain joy that fills the kitchen when the sweet scent of chocolate starts to waft through the air. It takes me back to cozy afternoons spent unwrapping those iconic Fannie May Fudge squares, each piece a little bite of happiness. I remember the satisfaction of sinking my teeth into that rich, dreamy chocolate, but it wasn’t until I set out to recreate this beloved treat at home that I truly understood how magical it was to make fudge from scratch.
This Copycat Fannie May Fudge recipe is not just a throwback to those indulgent moments; it’s a delicious solution for anyone tired of store-bought sweets. In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a creamy, delectable fudge that rivals the original and impresses friends and family alike. Perfect for potlucks, gifts, or simply to enjoy with a cup of coffee, there’s no need to reach for fast food when this easy homemade delight is within your grasp. Let’s dive into making this chocolatey masterpiece together!
Why You'll Love This Fannie May Fudge
- This Fannie May Fudge recipe is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a delightful treat in just 25 minutes.
- The rich, chocolatey flavor will transport your taste buds back to those cherished childhood memories, making each bite feel like a hug.
- Its versatility means you can customize it with different mix-ins or toppings, ensuring everyone can enjoy their own unique twist.
- With its beautiful, glossy finish, this fudge not only tastes fantastic but also looks impressive enough for any occasion.
Fannie May Fudge Ingredients
• Get ready for a sweet adventure!
For the Fudge Base
- Granulated Sugar – a key ingredient that gives the fudge its sweetness and smooth texture.
- Whole Milk – creates a creamy consistency that melds beautifully with the chocolate.
- Unsalted Butter – adds richness and helps create a velvety mouthfeel.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – infuses that deep chocolate flavor essential for a classic fudge taste.
- Semisweet Chocolate Chips – melts into the fudge, providing an extra layer of indulgent chocolatey goodness.
With these ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating your own delicious Fannie May Fudge at home!
How to Make Fannie May Fudge
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, mix the 2 cups of granulated sugar, 0.5 cup of whole milk, and 0.25 cup of unsalted butter. Stir until well combined over medium heat.
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Cook to Soft-Ball Stage: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently. Continue cooking until it reaches the soft-ball stage, which is about 234°F on a candy thermometer. This will take approximately 10-12 minutes.
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Cool Undisturbed: Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool undisturbed for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture.
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Beat Until Thick: After cooling, beat the mixture vigorously with a wooden spoon until it becomes thick and loses its shine, about 5-7 minutes. You should see the fudge begin to hold its shape.
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Pour into Pan: Quickly pour the thickened fudge into a greased 8x8 inch square pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, making sure it’s smooth on top.
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Let Set: Allow the fudge to cool completely at room temperature, which will take about 2 hours. Once set, cut it into squares to serve!
Optional: Consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra flavor contrast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Fannie May Fudge Variations
Feel free to get creative and give your fudge a personal touch with these delightful twists!
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Nutty Delight: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy fudge.
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Minty Freshness: Stir in 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract to give your fudge a refreshing mint flavor that’s perfect for the holidays.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to introduce a surprising heat that’ll dance on your taste buds.
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Flavorful Mix-Ins: Toss in ½ cup of dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for bursts of sweetness and chewy texture in every bite.
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Caramel Swirl: Drizzle in caramel sauce before it sets for a stunning marbled effect that adds a sweet richness to your fudge.
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Vegan Option: Substitute the whole milk with almond milk and use coconut oil instead of butter for a deliciously dairy-free version that everyone can enjoy.
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Chocolate Chunk: Replace the chocolate chips with dark chocolate chunks for an even richer, more indulgent chocolate experience.
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Festive Toppings: Sprinkle sea salt or shredded coconut on top for an added crunch and flavor enhancement that elevates your fudge’s presentation.
How to Store and Freeze Fannie May Fudge
Fridge: Keep your Fannie May Fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. This helps maintain its creamy texture and rich flavor.
Freezer: If you're looking to enjoy it later, freeze the fudge by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For the best experience, let frozen fudge thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying it at room temperature, ensuring it retains its smooth consistency.
Cutting & Serving: When cut into squares, serve chilled or at room temperature for a delightful treat that’s easy to share with friends and family.
Make Ahead Options
These Copycat Fannie May Fudge squares are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the fudge base by cooking the sugar mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the instructions through the cooling phase, then cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain that creamy consistency. When you're ready to finish, just beat the cooled mixture until thick and spread it into your pan. This method keeps the fudge just as delicious, ensuring you can enjoy homemade treats on busy weeknights without the last-minute rush. Cut into squares once set, and you'll have delightful goodies ready to savor anytime!
What to Serve with Fannie May Fudge?
There's nothing quite like indulging your sweet tooth with homemade flavors that transport you back to simpler times. Let’s build the perfect meal around this luxurious treat!
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Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or raspberries contrasts beautifully with the rich fudge, adding a refreshing bite.
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Rich Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream beside the fudge creates a delightful, melty combination that elevates every bite.
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Espresso or Coffee: Pairing the fudge with a bold cup of coffee enhances the chocolate flavor and provides a perfect after-dinner pick-me-up.
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Nutty Trail Mix: A handful of crunchy nuts or a classic trail mix adds texture and a hint of saltiness, balancing the sweetness of the fudge.
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Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream served on top of fudge creates an indulgent dessert experience that feels sophisticated yet comforting.
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Chocolate Covered Pretzels: The salty and sweet harmony of chocolate-covered pretzels adds a fun crunch! This pairing invites a playful twist to your dessert spread.
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Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A warm drizzle of caramel sauce over the fudge not only adds an exquisite gooeyness but also creates an elegantly decadent display.
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Sparkling Water with Citrus: Serve a refreshing glass of sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime to cleanse the palate between bites of rich fudge.
Each of these pairings brings a unique flair, ensuring that your fudge experience is as delightful as it is memorable!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Fannie May Fudge, ensure your sugar mixture reaches the soft-ball stage accurately by using a reliable candy thermometer.
- Stir consistently during cooking to prevent the mixture from scorching, as even a few burnt bits can affect the final flavor.
- Once you've cooled the fudge mixture for the specified time, beat it until it thickens and loses its shine to achieve the desired texture.
- Finally, remember to allow the fudge to set completely at room temperature for at least two hours to ensure it holds its shape when cut.
Fannie May Fudge Recipe FAQs
What type of cocoa powder should I use for the fudge?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using unsweetened cocoa powder as specified in the recipe. It provides the rich chocolatey base that makes this fudge so delightful. Avoid using Dutch-processed cocoa, as it can alter the taste and texture of the final product.
How should I store the Fannie May Fudge?
To keep your fudge fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. This will help to maintain that creamy texture and enhance the rich flavors. If you plan to keep it for longer, you can freeze it.
Can I freeze Fannie May Fudge?
Yes, you absolutely can! To freeze, first allow the fudge to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, making sure to eliminate as much air as possible. Finally, place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best texture.
What should I do if my fudge doesn’t achieve the right consistency?
If your fudge is too soft, it may not have cooked to the soft-ball stage accurately. To troubleshoot, return it to the saucepan, gently reheat it while stirring, and bring it back to the soft-ball stage (234°F). Then let it cool again and re-beat until thickened before pouring it into the pan.
Are there any dietary considerations for this fudge?
Definitely! While this fudge is full of rich flavors, anyone with a dairy allergy should avoid it due to the milk and butter. If you're looking for an alternative, you could experiment with nut or coconut milk and non-dairy butter substitutes to make a dairy-free version! Just be mindful that this might change the flavor a bit.
Is it safe for pets to consume?
No, it’s very important to keep chocolate products away from pets. Chocolate can be toxic to dogs and cats, so be sure to store your Fannie May Fudge out of their reach to keep them safe. Enjoy this treat just for yourself!
Fannie May Fudge
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan, mix the granulated sugar, whole milk, and unsalted butter. Stir until well combined over medium heat.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently. Continue cooking until it reaches the soft-ball stage, about 234°F on a candy thermometer, approximately 10-12 minutes.
- Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool undisturbed for about 10 minutes.
- After cooling, beat the mixture vigorously with a wooden spoon until it becomes thick and loses its shine, about 5-7 minutes.
- Quickly pour the thickened fudge into a greased 8x8 inch square pan and use a spatula to spread it evenly.
- Allow the fudge to cool completely at room temperature, which will take about 2 hours. Once set, cut it into squares to serve.
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