Classic Stovetop Fudge

Mise-en-place

Ingrediënten

De bereidingswijze

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1. 1

   Grease an 8x8 inch (20cm) square baking pan with the softened butter for pan preparation.

   Ongeveer 2 min

   Tip van de kok: Lining the pan with parchment paper after greasing will make it easier to lift the fudge out for cutting.

2. 2

   In a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, sifted cocoa powder, and milk.

   Ongeveer 1 min

   Tip van de kok: Sifting the cocoa powder prevents lumps in the final fudge.

3. 3

   Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar is completely dissolved.

   Ongeveer 3 min

   Tip van de kok: Wipe down the sides of the pan with a wet pastry brush to prevent sugar crystals from forming.

4. 4

   Bring the mixture to a rolling boil and cook without stirring until it reaches the soft-ball stage (112-116°C / 234-240°F on a candy thermometer).

   Ongeveer 8 min

   Tip van de kok: To test without a thermometer, drop a small amount of syrup into a glass of very cold water. It should form a soft ball that you can flatten between your fingers.

5. 5

   Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the cubed butter and vanilla extract. Do not stir.

   Tip van de kok: Letting the butter melt on top without stirring helps the fudge cool evenly.

6. 6

   Allow the fudge to cool undisturbed for about 10-15 minutes, or until the bottom of the pan is just warm to the touch.

   Ongeveer 15 min

7. 7

   Beat the mixture vigorously with a wooden spoon or an electric mixer on low speed until it loses its glossy shine and begins to thicken.

   Ongeveer 3 min

   Tip van de kok: Be careful not to overbeat, as the fudge can become grainy. Stop as soon as you see it thicken and lose its shine.

8. 8

   Immediately pour the thickened fudge into the prepared pan and spread it into an even layer.

   Ongeveer 1 min

9. 9

   Let the fudge set at room temperature for at least 2 hours, or until completely firm.

   Ongeveer 2 uur

   Tip van de kok: Avoid refrigerating the fudge to set, as this can affect the texture.

10. 10

    Once firm, lift the fudge from the pan and cut it into small squares to serve.

    Ongeveer 2 min