Old Fashioned Hershey Cocoa Fudge

Name: Old Fashioned Hershey Cocoa Fudge
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups granulated sugar; 3/4 cup Hershey’s cocoa powder; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Isabella

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Indulge in the nostalgia of classic homemade fudge with this rich and creamy Old Fashioned Hershey Cocoa Fudge. Perfect for satisfying chocolate cravings, this recipe uses the iconic Hershey’s cocoa powder to deliver a timeless treat that’s sure to delight friends and family.

Ingredients:

2 cups granulated sugar

3/4 cup Hershey’s cocoa powder

1/2 cup milk

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

Directions:

Prepare the Pan: Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper and set aside.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, mix together the sugar, cocoa powder, and salt.

Add Milk: Gradually stir in the milk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Add Butter: Incorporate the butter into the mixture, stirring until it melts completely and blends in.

Boil: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Once boiling, stop stirring and let it boil undisturbed for 2-3 minutes.

Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Beat the Mixture: Vigorously beat the mixture with a wooden spoon or hand mixer until it thickens and loses its shine.

Pour and Cool: Quickly pour the fudge into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly and smoothing the top. Allow it to cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours or until firm.

Cut and Serve: Once the fudge is set, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into small squares.

Serving Tips:

Cutting the Fudge: For neat and even squares, use a sharp knife to cut the fudge after it has fully set. You can lightly oil the knife to prevent sticking.

Presentation: Arrange the fudge squares on a decorative plate or in a gift box for a charming presentation. This makes it perfect for gifting or serving at parties.

Pairing: Fudge pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages such as hot cocoa, coffee, or milk. Consider serving it alongside a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee for a delicious treat.

Storage Tips:

Room Temperature: Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Ensure the container is well-sealed to prevent the fudge from drying out or absorbing other odors.

Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep the fudge in the refrigerator. It can last up to 3 weeks when refrigerated. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving to retain its optimal texture.

Freezing: If you need to store the fudge for an extended period, you can freeze it. Wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Avoid Humidity: Store the fudge in a dry place to prevent it from becoming sticky or losing its texture. Avoid storing it in areas with high humidity.

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FAQs:

Can I use a different brand of cocoa powder?

Yes, you can use another brand of cocoa powder, but for the classic taste, Hershey’s cocoa powder is recommended. Different brands may have slight variations in flavor and richness, so the taste and texture of the fudge might vary slightly.

What should I do if my fudge is too soft after cooling?

If your fudge is too soft, it may not have cooked long enough. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook it for a few more minutes, stirring constantly until it reaches the soft-ball stage (around 234-240°F or 112-115°C). Let it cool again before cutting.

Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips to the fudge?

Yes, you can add mix-ins like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even marshmallows to the fudge. Stir them in after you’ve removed the pan from heat but before pouring the mixture into the baking dish. This will add extra texture and flavor to your fudge.

How do I know when the fudge is ready to be poured into the pan?

The fudge is ready when it has thickened and lost its shiny appearance. It should hold its shape when stirred vigorously. If you’re unsure, you can test a small amount of the mixture by dropping it into a glass of cold water; it should form a soft ball that holds its shape when removed from the water.

Conclusion:

Enjoy this Old Fashioned Hershey Cocoa Fudge as a delightful treat for any occasion, or simply as a sweet pick-me-up during your day. This classic recipe not only brings back fond memories but also delivers a melt-in-your-mouth chocolate experience that’s hard to resist.

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