We absolutely love diving into the decadent world of homemade chocolate walnut fudge—it’s that irresistible blend of rich cocoa and crunchy nuts that hits the spot every time. Originating from classic American candy traditions, this version with condensed milk adds a silky smoothness that makes it a breeze to whip up.
Our recipe keeps things simple yet indulgent, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re prepping for a gathering or just treating yourself, we’ve got the tips to make it foolproof and utterly delicious.
Ingredients
As we prepare our irresistible Chocolate Walnut Fudge Recipe With Condensed Milk, we start by assembling these key ingredients in the order they’ll be used. This selection ensures a smooth, indulgent texture with rich cocoa notes and a satisfying crunch from the walnuts.
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk – Used first as the creamy base to melt and bind the fudge, providing natural sweetness and a velvety consistency.
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips – Added next for their intense, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate flavor that forms the heart of our fudge.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter – Incorporated early to blend with the condensed milk and chocolate, enhancing richness and a glossy finish.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Stirred in after melting to infuse aromatic depth and elevate the overall taste profile.
- 1 1/2 cups chopped walnuts – Folded in last for their nutty crunch, adding texture and a complementary contrast to the smooth fudge base.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Optionally mixed in with the walnuts to balance sweetness and heighten flavors, if desired for a more complex taste.
Equipment Needed
To bring our Chocolate Walnut Fudge Recipe with Condensed Milk together seamlessly, we rely on a few essential tools that ensure precise preparation and a smooth cooking process. These items help us achieve the perfect texture and flavor without complications.
Here’s a list of the key equipment we recommend:
- Medium-sized saucepan: For melting the sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and butter evenly over low heat, preventing scorching.
- Heatproof mixing bowl: Ideal if we’re using a double boiler method to gently melt ingredients for a silky consistency.
- Silicone spatula or wooden spoon: Essential for stirring the mixture thoroughly, ensuring the walnuts incorporate well and the fudge sets uniformly.
- 8×8 inch baking pan: We use this to pour and set the fudge, allowing it to cool into perfect squares with a firm yet creamy texture.
- Parchment paper or nonstick liner: Lines the pan to make removal effortless and keeps the fudge from sticking.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate for measuring ingredients like vanilla extract and chopped walnuts, guaranteeing balanced flavors.
- Sharp knife or food processor: Helps us quickly chop walnuts to the right size for that satisfying crunch.
By having these tools ready, we streamline the process and focus on creating an indulgent treat that highlights the rich cocoa notes and nutty elements of our homemade fudge.
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients and equipment prepared, let’s create our irresistible Chocolate Walnut Fudge with its rich, velvety texture and nutty crunch. We’ll guide you through each step for a seamless process that delivers indulgent results every time.
Prepare Ingredients
Before we start cooking, we gather and prep our components to ensure everything flows smoothly. Begin by measuring out 1 can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk, 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1/4 cup of unsalted butter (cut into cubes for even melting), 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, and 1 cup of chopped walnuts (if not already chopped, use a sharp knife or food processor to coarsely chop them for that perfect crunch). If desired, add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. This step sets the stage for a glossy fudge with deep chocolate notes and a satisfying walnut texture.
Cook the Fudge
In a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat, we melt the sweetened condensed milk, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and unsalted butter cubes together, stirring constantly with a silicone spatula to prevent scorching. As the mixture heats, it transforms into a smooth, glossy base in about 5-7 minutes—watch for the chocolate to fully melt and the blend to become thick and aromatic, releasing a rich cocoa scent that fills the kitchen. Once it reaches a gentle simmer, remove from heat and stir in the pure vanilla extract until fully incorporated, creating a decadent foundation that promises a creamy mouthfeel in every bite.
Add Walnuts and Mix
With the fudge base ready, we fold in the chopped walnuts using a wooden spoon or spatula, ensuring even distribution for pockets of crunch amid the smooth chocolate. Mix vigorously for about 1 minute until the nuts are well combined, adding a nutty contrast that elevates the fudge’s texture—imagine the satisfying snap of walnuts against the silky chocolate as you stir. This quick step infuses our treat with that signature element, making it a standout dessert for any occasion.
Cool and Set
Pour the warm fudge mixture into an 8×8 inch baking pan lined with parchment paper, spreading it evenly with a spatula for a uniform layer. Let it cool at room temperature for 30-45 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or until firm) to achieve a fudgy consistency that holds its shape. Once set, use a sharp knife to cut into squares, revealing the glossy surface and embedded walnuts for a visually appealing and texturally perfect finish.
Make-Ahead and Storage
As we perfect our Chocolate Walnut Fudge Recipe With Condensed Milk, planning ahead ensures every batch remains irresistibly glossy and packed with rich cocoa depth and walnut crunch. Let’s explore how we can prepare this treat in advance and store it to preserve its smooth texture and indulgent flavors.
Making Ahead
We recommend preparing our Chocolate Walnut Fudge up to a week before serving to allow flavors to meld beautifully. Here’s how we do it step by step:
- Measure and mix ingredients as outlined: Begin by following the recipe steps up to pouring the fudge into the lined baking pan. This sets a strong foundation for make-ahead success.
- Cool and set completely: Let the fudge cool at room temperature for 1-2 hours, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm. This step locks in the fudge’s velvety consistency and nutty appeal.
- Cut and portion if desired: Once set, use a sharp knife to cut into squares. We can store it whole or pre-cut for convenience, ensuring each piece retains its satisfying snap and chocolate richness.
- Wrap and label: Tightly wrap the fudge in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Date the container to track freshness and avoid any guesswork.
Storage Tips
Proper storage keeps our Chocolate Walnut Fudge fresh and flavorful, maintaining its glossy sheen and decadent mouthfeel. Below, we break down the best methods based on duration and conditions.
For quick reference, here’s a summary of storage options and their details:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 1 week | Store in a cool dry place in an airtight container to prevent the fudge from absorbing odors or losing its crisp walnut texture. |
| Refrigerator | Up to 2 weeks | Wrap tightly in plastic or use an airtight container; this preserves the fudge’s smooth melt-in-your-mouth quality and prevents condensation from dulling its shine. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Freeze in a single layer first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag; thaw overnight in the refrigerator to retain the fudge’s original rich cocoa intensity and nutty crunch without sogginess. |
By following these straightforward steps, we ensure our Chocolate Walnut Fudge Recipe With Condensed Milk stays as delightful as the day we made it, ready for any occasion.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve joined us on this fudge-making adventure. It’s a simple way to create something truly indulgent that brings joy to every bite.
Our recipe ensures you’ll have a go-to treat for gatherings or cozy nights, packed with rich flavors we know you’ll savor. Give it a whirl and make it your own!
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for Chocolate Walnut Fudge with Condensed Milk?
To make this fudge, you’ll need sweetened condensed milk, semi-sweet chocolate chips, unsalted butter, pure vanilla extract, chopped walnuts, and an optional pinch of salt. These simple ingredients combine for a rich, creamy texture with a nutty crunch, making it easy to whip up at home.
What equipment is required to make Chocolate Walnut Fudge?
You’ll need a medium-sized saucepan for melting ingredients, a heatproof mixing bowl for the double boiler method, a silicone spatula or wooden spoon for stirring, an 8×8 inch baking pan lined with parchment paper, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, and a knife or food processor for chopping walnuts. This setup ensures smooth preparation.
How do I prepare Chocolate Walnut Fudge step by step?
First, measure and prepare your ingredients. Melt sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and butter in a saucepan over low heat. Stir in vanilla extract, then fold in chopped walnuts. Pour the mixture into a lined baking pan, cool at room temperature, and refrigerate until firm. Slice and enjoy your glossy, indulgent treat.
Can I make Chocolate Walnut Fudge in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this fudge up to a week ahead. Let it cool and set completely, then cut into portions if desired. This allows flavors to meld, making it perfect for gatherings or gifts, while keeping the texture smooth and fresh.
How should I store homemade Chocolate Walnut Fudge?
Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or freeze it for up to three months. Always wrap it tightly to maintain its glossy sheen and decadent flavor, ensuring it stays fresh for whenever you crave a sweet treat.