Decadent Old Fashioned Fudge Recipe

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### **Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the pan**: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly butter it to prevent sticking.

2. **Mix dry ingredients**: In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, stir together the sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until well combined.

3. **Add milk**: Pour in the milk and stir to combine. Place the pan over medium heat and bring to a boil, stirring constantly.

4. **Simmer without stirring**: Once it begins to boil, stop stirring and let the mixture cook until it reaches the soft-ball stage (234°F or 112°C on a candy thermometer). This may take 10–15 minutes — keep a close eye!

5. **Cool**: Remove the pan from heat and add the butter and vanilla. Do **not** stir. Let the mixture cool undisturbed until it reaches about 110°F (warm but not hot to the touch).

6. **Beat the fudge**: Once cooled, beat the mixture vigorously with a wooden spoon until it thickens and loses its gloss (this can take 5–10 minutes).

7. **Pour and set**: Quickly pour the fudge into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Let it sit at room temperature until firm, then cut into squares.

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### **Tips for Success:**
– Use a **candy thermometer** for accurate results — guessing the soft-ball stage can lead to under- or overcooked fudge.
– **Don’t stir** during boiling! This can cause the sugar to crystallize too early.
– Beat until it just begins to lose its sheen — over-beating can make the fudge crumbly.

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### **Serving & Storage:**
Old fashioned fudge makes a great homemade gift or party treat. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks — if it lasts that long!

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With its melt-in-your-mouth texture and nostalgic charm, this **Decadent Old Fashioned Fudge** is more than just a recipe — it’s a return to the joy of homemade confections. Whether you’re gifting it, sharing it, or sneaking a piece late at night, it’s guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth.

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