We’ve always loved diving into the classic Fanny Farmer Fudge Recipe, a timeless gem from the renowned cookbook author that brings a touch of nostalgia to our kitchens. This simple treat boasts rich, creamy chocolate flavors passed down through generations, making it perfect for cozy gatherings or quick indulgences.
We’ll show you how easy it is to whip up this crowd-pleaser with everyday ingredients, ensuring your homemade fudge rivals the best. Whether you’re a baking novice or pro, it’s a foolproof way to satisfy those sweet cravings.
Ingredients
To bring our beloved Fanny Farmer Fudge to life—with its velvety texture and deep, indulgent chocolate notes—we start by gathering these key ingredients. We’ve organized them in the order they’re used during preparation, including any necessary prep notes for accuracy and ease.
- Granulated sugar (2 cups): This forms the sweet base; measure it precisely for the perfect consistency.
- Unsweetened chocolate (4 ounces, chopped): Use high-quality baking chocolate for rich flavor—chop it finely to ensure even melting.
- Butter (½ cup, softened): Opt for unsalted butter to control the taste; it adds creaminess and helps achieve that smooth finish.
- Evaporated milk (1 can, 12 ounces): This provides the creamy element; shake the can well before opening to incorporate any settled contents.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Pure vanilla enhances the chocolate depth—add it at the end for maximum aroma.
- Chopped walnuts (1 cup, optional): For a nutty crunch that complements the fudge’s richness; toast them lightly if you prefer a bolder flavor.
These simple, everyday items showcase why our Fanny Farmer Fudge remains a timeless favorite—delivering that nostalgic, melt-in-your-mouth experience with minimal effort.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Fanny Farmer Fudge smoothly and efficiently after gathering the ingredients, we need a few essential tools that ensure precision and ease. These items help achieve that perfect velvety texture and rich chocolate consistency without complications.
Here’s a list of the key equipment, organized by the order of use in the recipe:
- Medium-sized saucepan: We use this to melt and cook the sugar, chocolate, butter, and evaporated milk together, allowing for even heat distribution to prevent scorching.
- Candy thermometer: Essential for monitoring the mixture’s temperature to reach the soft-ball stage (around 234–240°F), ensuring our fudge sets perfectly every time.
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula: We rely on this for stirring the ingredients vigorously, as it withstands high heat and helps incorporate air for a smooth, creamy result.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial, so we use these to portion out granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract precisely.
- 8×8 inch baking pan: This is where we pour the hot fudge mixture to cool and set, providing the ideal size for even slicing.
- Parchment paper or butter: We line or grease the baking pan with this to prevent sticking, making it simple to remove and cut the fudge later.
- Sharp knife: Finally, we need this for cutting the cooled fudge into neat squares, ensuring clean edges for presentation.
By having these tools ready, we make the process straightforward and enjoyable, leading seamlessly into the preparation steps.
Instructions
We guide you through the straightforward steps to craft our irresistible Fanny Farmer Fudge, ensuring a velvety texture and rich chocolate flavor every time. Let’s transform those simple ingredients into a nostalgic treat that melts in your mouth.
Prep
Before we begin, gather and measure all ingredients to streamline the process. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine 2 cups granulated sugar, 4 ounces unsweetened chocolate (chopped), ½ cup butter (cut into pieces), and 1 can (5 ounces) evaporated milk for even melting. This preparation sets the foundation for the fudge’s deep, decadent chocolate base. If using walnuts, measure out 1 cup chopped walnuts and set them aside. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it with butter to prevent sticking, and have a candy thermometer and wooden spoon ready for accuracy.
Cook
We heat the mixture to achieve the perfect consistency. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir the ingredients constantly with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula until the butter melts and the mixture reaches a full boil—about 5-7 minutes. Watch as the aroma of rich chocolate fills your kitchen. Once boiling, attach the candy thermometer and continue cooking without stirring until it hits the soft-ball stage, 234-240°F, which typically takes 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat immediately to avoid overcooking, then stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and the optional chopped walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
Cool and Set
With the cooking complete, we let the fudge cool and firm up naturally. Pour the hot fudge mixture into the prepared 8×8 inch baking pan, smoothing the top with the back of your spoon for an even layer. Feel the glossy surface set as it cools, releasing a tempting chocolate scent. Allow it to cool at room temperature for 1-2 hours, or refrigerate for 30-45 minutes if you’re in a hurry, until it firms to a soft, sliceable texture. This step ensures the fudge develops its signature melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Cut and Serve
Finally, we cut and present the fudge for the best enjoyment. Once fully set, remove the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper and place it on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut it into 1-inch squares—yielding about 36 pieces from an 8×8 inch pan—for neat, shareable portions. Savor the smooth, fudgy bite that evokes timeless nostalgia. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for longer freshness, making it ideal for gatherings or a quick indulgence.
Make-Ahead and Storage
As we dive deeper into enjoying our Fanny Farmer Fudge, preparing it ahead of time or storing it properly ensures that its rich, velvety chocolate texture remains irresistible for days. Let’s explore how we can make this timeless treat even more convenient.
Making Ahead
We recommend making our Fanny Farmer Fudge up to 3 days in advance to allow flavors to deepen and save time on busy occasions. Start by following the cooking steps as outlined, then pour the hot mixture into the prepared pan. Let it cool completely at room temperature for about 2 hours until firm. Once set, cut the fudge into squares but hold off on serving. Wrap the squares tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container to prevent drying out. This method keeps the fudge’s melt-in-your-mouth smoothness intact, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or spontaneous indulgences.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is key to preserving the deep chocolate flavor and glossy finish of our Fanny Farmer Fudge. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to avoid any softening or crystallization.
For specific storage options and durations, refer to the table below:
| Storage Method | Duration | Conditions and Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 1 week | Keep in an airtight container; ideal for short-term enjoyment to maintain the fudge’s soft, creamy bite. |
| Refrigerator | Up to 2 weeks | Wrap individually or use an airtight container; this slows crystallization but may slightly firm the texture—let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Double-wrap in plastic wrap then place in a freezer-safe bag; thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best results, preserving the nostalgic, rich taste as if freshly made. |
By following these steps, we ensure our Fanny Farmer Fudge stays fresh and delightful, ready whenever a chocolate craving strikes.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this timeless Fanny Farmer Fudge recipe with you.
It’s a straightforward way to create a treat that’s sure to delight family and friends.
By following our steps you’ll enjoy that perfect velvety texture every time.
Let’s keep this classic alive in our kitchens for generations to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Fanny Farmer Fudge Recipe?
The Fanny Farmer Fudge Recipe is a classic, easy-to-make treat known for its rich, velvety chocolate flavor and nostalgic appeal. It uses simple ingredients like sugar, unsweetened chocolate, butter, and evaporated milk to create a homemade fudge that’s perfect for beginners and pros alike. This timeless recipe delivers a melt-in-your-mouth experience, ideal for gatherings or personal treats, and has been cherished for generations.
What ingredients are needed for Fanny Farmer Fudge?
Key ingredients include granulated sugar, unsweetened chocolate, butter, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and optional chopped walnuts. These are organized by use for easy prep and contribute to the fudge’s deep chocolate taste and smooth texture. Measure accurately for best results, as they ensure the fudge sets perfectly without extra fuss.
What equipment do I need to make Fanny Farmer Fudge?
You’ll need a medium saucepan for melting, a candy thermometer for temperature monitoring, a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring, measuring cups and spoons for precision, an 8×8 inch baking pan lined with parchment or butter, and a sharp knife for cutting. These tools make preparation straightforward and help achieve a smooth, professional finish.
How do I make Fanny Farmer Fudge?
Start by combining sugar, chocolate, butter, and milk in a saucepan, heating to the soft-ball stage (around 234-240°F). Stir in vanilla and walnuts, then pour into a prepared pan to cool and set. Follow the steps carefully for the perfect texture, and let it cool completely before cutting into squares for easy sharing.
Can I make Fanny Farmer Fudge in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it up to three days ahead to let flavors deepen. This is great for busy occasions, saving time while enhancing taste. Store at room temperature for up to a week, in the fridge for two weeks, or freeze for up to three months to keep it fresh and maintain its creamy texture.
How should I store homemade Fanny Farmer Fudge?
Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or freeze for up to three months. Use wax paper between layers to prevent sticking and preserve the soft, velvety bite. Thaw frozen fudge in the fridge before serving for the best flavor and texture.