The Perfect Classic Vanilla Fudge Recipe for Sweet Treats

Crafting a delectable classic vanilla fudge recipe brings pure joy to sweet-toothed adventurers seeking creamy perfection.

Sugar crystals dance with butter in a magical culinary transformation.

Smooth textures and rich flavors promise an irresistible treat that melts effortlessly on your tongue.

Childhood memories of grandma’s kitchen come flooding back with each silky bite.

Simple ingredients combine to create something extraordinary beyond basic dessert expectations.

Culinary magic happens when you whisk together these humble components into a decadent confection.

Y​ou won’t believe how easy it is to create this mouthwatering delicacy that will have everyone begging for seconds.

Why Classic Vanilla Fudge Feels Special

• Craft Homemade Candy: Create a delectable treat that rivals professional candy shop quality right in your own kitchen, impressing family and friends with your culinary skills.
• Master Simple Technique: Learn an easy candy-making process that requires minimal ingredients and basic cooking skills, perfect for beginners wanting to explore confectionery crafting.
• Enjoy Pure Comfort Treat: Indulge in a classic dessert that brings nostalgic memories of traditional sweet treats, offering a rich and smooth texture that melts in your mouth with pure vanilla goodness.
• Quick Sweet Satisfaction: Whip up a delightful dessert in just a few steps, with minimal preparation time and using common pantry ingredients, making it an ideal last-minute treat for unexpected cravings.

Maple Nut Fudge Pantry Must-Haves

• Sugar, Half-and-Half, Corn Syrup: Sweet base that creates the classic fudge texture.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile.

• Butter: Adds richness and creamy smoothness to the fudge.
• Vanilla: Provides the classic sweet and aromatic flavor.

How to Make Classic Vanilla Fudge

Step 1: Create Sweet Candy Base

• Sugar
• Salt
• Half-and-half
• Corn syrup

Whisk everything together until the mixture looks silky smooth. Place the pan over medium-low heat and let it start bubbling gently.

Step 2: Track Temperature Perfectly

Attach a candy thermometer to the saucepan’s side. Cook the mixture without stirring, watching carefully until it reaches exactly 240°F. Take the pan off the heat immediately when you hit that magic number.

Step 3: Rest and Add Flavor

• Butter
• Vanilla extract

Don’t stir yet! Allow everything to sit and mingle for about 20 minutes until the mixture feels warm but not hot.

Step 4: Beat Into Smooth Submission

Pull out your hand mixer and beat the mixture on medium-low speed. Keep mixing for 1-3 minutes until the fudge transforms, becoming thick and losing its glossy shine.

Step 5: Set and Serve

Quickly pour the fudge into a buttered or parchment-lined dish. Smooth out the surface if needed. Let the fudge set for around 20 minutes before slicing into delectable squares.

Fudge Tips That Keep Vanilla Classic and Creamy

• Prevent Sugar Crystallization: Gently stir ingredients before heating to ensure smooth, creamy fudge without grainy texture.
• Master Precise Temperature Control: Use a reliable candy thermometer and remove from heat exactly at 240°F for perfect consistency.
• Choose Quality Vanilla: Select pure vanilla extract for rich, authentic flavor that elevates the entire fudge experience.
• Beat with Patience: Mix slowly and carefully to develop the right texture, stopping when fudge loses its glossy sheen.
• Prepare Smooth Cutting Surface: Line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal and clean, neat fudge squares.

How To Store Classic Vanilla Fudge Properly

• Store fudge in an airtight container, separating layers with wax paper. Keeps fresh for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator, maintaining its creamy texture and rich flavor.
• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freezes perfectly for 2-3 months without losing quality or taste.
• Keep in a cool, dry place in a sealed container at room temperature for 3-5 days. Avoid direct sunlight or warm areas to prevent melting.
• Gently warm in microwave for 5-10 seconds if too firm. Allow to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to restore soft, smooth consistency.

Winter Fruit Salad Pairing Tips

• Savor Rich Red Wine Pairing: Bold cabernet sauvignon complements the sweet, creamy vanilla fudge with its deep tannin structure and robust flavor profile.
• Create Espresso Experience: Strong Italian espresso cuts through the fudge's sweetness, providing a perfect bitter counterpoint that enhances the dessert's richness.
• Match Nutty Accompaniment: Roasted almonds or pecans serve as a crunchy textural contrast, adding depth and complexity to the smooth, velvety fudge.
• Elevate with Port Wine: Sweet Portuguese port wine mirrors the fudge's sugary essence, creating a luxurious dessert pairing that highlights the candy's vanilla undertones.

Maple Nut Fudge Sweet Style Options

• Dairy-Free Dream: Replace half-and-half with coconut milk and use vegan butter for a plant-based version that maintains creamy texture.
• Nutty Crunch Variation: Fold chopped almonds or pecans into the fudge just before pouring for added texture and rich flavor.
• Chocolate Lovers' Fix: Stir in 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder during cooking to transform the classic vanilla into a deep chocolate treat.
• Low-Sugar Option: Use sugar substitute like erythritol and sugar-free corn syrup alternative to create a diabetic-friendly version with similar smooth consistency.

FAQs

• What ingredients do I need to make classic vanilla fudge?

You’ll need sugar, salt, half-and-half, corn syrup, butter, and vanilla extract. These simple pantry staples create a rich, creamy fudge with minimal effort.

• Is a candy thermometer really necessary for this recipe?

Yes, a candy thermometer is crucial. It helps you precisely hit the 240°F soft-ball stage, which is key to achieving the perfect fudge texture. Without it, your fudge might be too soft or too hard.

• Why do I need to avoid stirring during the cooking process?

Stirring can cause sugar crystals to form, making your fudge grainy instead of smooth. Let the mixture cook undisturbed to ensure a silky, creamy result.

• How long does it take to beat the fudge mixture?

Beat the mixture for 1-3 minutes on medium-low speed. You’ll know it’s ready when it thickens and loses its glossy shine, which signals it’s time to pour into the pan.

Classic Vanilla Fudge Recipe

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4.9 from 33 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Sweet temptations begin with this classic vanilla fudge recipe, a creamy confection that whispers nostalgic memories of grandma’s kitchen. Smooth, rich cubes melt effortlessly on your palate, inviting pure indulgence with each delectable bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2.25 cups granulated sugar
• 2/3 cup half-and-half
• 3 tablespoons butter

Flavor and Enhancers:

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon corn syrup

Additional Seasoning:

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

1. Gather a heavy-bottomed saucepan and combine sugar, salt, half-and-half, and corn syrup, whisking until the mixture achieves a uniform consistency.
2. Position the pan over medium-low heat, allowing the ingredients to meld together and gradually reach a gentle, rolling boil without aggressive stirring.
3. Securely attach a precise candy thermometer to monitor the temperature, continuing to cook without disturbing the mixture until it precisely hits 240°F.
4. Immediately remove the pan from heat source, allowing the molten mixture to settle and cease its vigorous bubbling.
5. Gently introduce butter and vanilla extract across the surface, permitting them to rest undisturbed for approximately 20 minutes until the temperature moderates.
6. Employ a hand mixer, setting it to medium-low speed, and systematically beat the cooling mixture for 1-3 minutes until it visibly transforms, losing its glossy sheen and developing a thicker texture.
7. Swiftly transfer the fudge to a prepared pan lined with parchment or generously buttered, using a spatula to create an even surface.
8. Allow the fudge to set and solidify for around 20 minutes before carefully slicing into uniform, delectable squares.

Notes

• Prevent Sugar Crystallization by carefully dissolving sugar without scraping down sides during initial heating to ensure smooth, creamy texture.
• Invest in a reliable candy thermometer for precise temperature control, as even a few degrees can dramatically change fudge consistency.
• Use room temperature ingredients to help achieve optimal mixing and reduce potential temperature shock during cooking process.
• Consider dairy alternatives like coconut cream or condensed milk for lactose-intolerant individuals, which can provide similar richness and mouthfeel.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 192.5 kcal
• Sugar: 17.8 g
• Sodium: 0.1 g
• Fat: 4.5 g
• Saturated Fat: 2.7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1.8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30.9 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 0.3 g
• Cholesterol: 10 mg