Cherish the sweetness of Old Fashioned Fudge!

### Instructions

Here’s how you can bring the comforting flavor of **Old Fashioned Fudge** to life:

#### **Step 1: Prepare Your Pan**
Grease a 9×9-inch square pan or a similar-sized baking dish with butter. This will help the fudge release easily once it’s set. You can also line the pan with parchment paper for extra easy removal.

#### **Step 2: Heat the Sugar, Butter, and Milk**
In a medium saucepan, combine the **granulated sugar**, **unsalted butter**, and **whole milk**. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning, until the sugar dissolves and the butter melts completely.

Once the butter has melted, bring the mixture to a gentle boil while still stirring. Allow it to cook for 4-5 minutes, making sure the mixture is bubbling but not burning. This is an important step to help the fudge achieve the right texture.

#### **Step 3: Add the Chocolate and Stir**
Once the sugar mixture has reached a boil, remove it from the heat. Immediately stir in the **semisweet chocolate chips**, allowing them to melt into the warm mixture. Stir until smooth, ensuring that the chocolate is fully incorporated and the mixture is velvety.

Add the **vanilla extract** and **salt** to enhance the flavor and stir well. The vanilla gives the fudge a warm, aromatic undertone, while the salt balances out the sweetness of the sugar and chocolate.

#### **Step 4: Pour Into the Pan**
Once the mixture is completely smooth and glossy, pour it into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface of the pan.

#### **Step 5: Cool and Set**
Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for about 2-3 hours until it firms up. If you’re in a hurry, you can place the pan in the refrigerator to speed up the cooling process. The fudge should have a firm, but slightly soft texture once fully set.

#### **Step 6: Slice and Enjoy!**
Once the fudge has cooled completely and set, cut it into small squares and enjoy! Each piece will have a rich, creamy texture and a perfect balance of sweetness.

### Why This Recipe Works

– **Perfect Consistency**: The secret to perfect fudge lies in the cooking time and temperature. By boiling the sugar and milk mixture just long enough to dissolve the sugar and thicken, you create the right consistency for smooth, melt-in-your-mouth fudge.
– **Simple Ingredients**: The best fudge recipes rely on a few simple ingredients that come together beautifully. The combination of butter, sugar, and milk forms the base, while the chocolate and vanilla create layers of flavor.
– **Old Fashioned Charm**: Fudge is a candy that’s been made in homes for generations. Its simplicity, combined with the indulgent richness, makes it a timeless treat that people of all ages love.

### Variations and Customizations

While this **Old Fashioned Fudge** is delicious as-is, you can easily personalize it to suit your tastes or the occasion:

– **Add Nuts**: Chopped **walnuts**, **pecans**, or **almonds** can be mixed into the fudge for added crunch and flavor. Stir them into the mixture after the chocolate has melted.
– **Use White Chocolate**: For a twist, substitute the semisweet chocolate with **white chocolate chips**. This creates a sweeter, more delicate flavor that pairs well with the creaminess of the fudge.
– **Add Flavorings**: Infuse your fudge with different flavors such as **mint extract**, **coffee**, or **orange zest** for a unique spin on this classic treat.
– **Swirl in Caramel**: Add a swirl of **caramel sauce** on top of the fudge before it sets to create a delicious caramel-fudge fusion.
– **Use Milk or Dark Chocolate**: Depending on your preference, you can use **milk chocolate** for a sweeter, creamier flavor or **dark chocolate** for a richer, more intense chocolate experience.

### Tips for Perfect Fudge

– **Be Patient with the Boiling**: Don’t rush the process! Boiling the sugar, butter, and milk mixture for the right amount of time is key to achieving the correct fudge consistency.
– **Stir Constantly**: Stirring constantly while the sugar mixture is cooking ensures the ingredients don’t burn and that the fudge sets evenly.
– **Cool Completely**: Allow the fudge to cool completely before cutting it into pieces. This ensures it sets properly and maintains its perfect texture.

### Conclusion

**Old Fashioned Fudge** is more than just a treat; it’s a taste of nostalgia and a way to make memories with loved ones. Its smooth, creamy texture and rich chocolate flavor make it an irresistible dessert that can be cherished by anyone with a sweet tooth.

This easy, no-fuss recipe brings the timeless pleasure of homemade fudge right to your kitchen. Whether it’s for the holidays, a special occasion, or simply because you’re craving something sweet, Old Fashioned Fudge is sure to hit the spot and bring a smile to your face with every bite.

So, gather your ingredients and take a trip back to simpler times with this classic, delicious fudge. You’ll cherish the sweetness of every bite!