Fudge (as Made By Mary) Recipe

Recipe for Fudge (as Made By Mary):

History and Fun Facts:

Fudge, a delicious confectionery treat, has a long and interesting history. The exact origin of fudge is disputed, but it is believed to have been created in the late 19th century in the United States. The story goes that a college lecturer was attempting to make caramel when he accidentally allowed the mixture to overcook, resulting in what we now know as fudge. This sweet treat became increasingly popular and gained a reputation for being a rich and indulgent dessert.

Fudge gets its name from the word "fudge," which means "to fit together or compact." This name perfectly describes the dense and chewy texture of this delightful dessert. Throughout the years, fudge has evolved, and various flavors and additions have been incorporated. One popular variation is the addition of nuts like walnuts or pecans, which adds a delightful crunch to the smooth fudge.

Now let's dive into making the fudge recipe as made by Mary!

Ingredients:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup sweet milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cake or 2 squares of Baker's unsweetened chocolate
- Vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Gather all the ingredients to ensure you have everything you need.

2. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, sweet milk, butter, and unsweetened chocolate. Place the saucepan over medium heat.

3. Stir the mixture continuously to ensure that the ingredients are evenly combined and prevent any burning. It is essential to maintain a consistent heat throughout the cooking process.

4. Continue stirring until the mixture reaches the soft ball stage. To test this, drop a small amount of the mixture into a bowl of cold water. If it forms a soft ball that holds its shape but is still pliable, then it has reached the desired consistency.

5. Once the soft ball stage is reached, remove the saucepan from the heat immediately to prevent further cooking.

6. Add a splash of vanilla extract to the mixture and stir until well incorporated. The vanilla extract adds a delightful aroma and enhances the overall flavor of the fudge.

7. Using a hand mixer or a wooden spoon, beat the mixture vigorously until it becomes creamy and thick. This process incorporates air into the fudge, giving it a smooth and velvety texture.

8. While the mixture is still warm, pour it into a buttered pan. The size of the pan will depend on how thick you want the fudge to be. A square or rectangular pan is typically used.

9. Allow the fudge to cool completely. This can take a few hours, so be patient. The fudge will become firmer as it cools and will be easier to slice into squares.

10. Once fully cooled, cut the fudge into squares using a sharp knife. The size of the squares can vary based on personal preference.

11. Serve the fudge and enjoy! It can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, but chances are it won't last that long!

Now that you've mastered Mary's fudge recipe, here are a few similar recipe dishes you might want to try:

- Peanut Butter Fudge: Add a creamy and nutty twist to the classic fudge recipe by incorporating peanut butter. Simply melt peanut butter along with the other ingredients and follow the same instructions.

- Salted Caramel Fudge: Give your fudge a sophisticated and irresistible flavor by adding homemade or store-bought salted caramel sauce. Swirl the caramel sauce into the fudge mixture before pouring it into the pan.

- White Chocolate and Raspberry Fudge: Replace the unsweetened chocolate with white chocolate and fold in dried raspberries for a sweet and tangy burst of flavor in every bite.

- Rocky Road Fudge: Amp up the texture of your fudge by adding mini marshmallows, chopped nuts, and maybe even some crushed graham crackers or cookies.

Remember, fudge is a versatile treat, and you can always get creative with different flavors and additions. Experiment and have fun in the kitchen! Enjoy your homemade fudge and share it with friends and family.