Are you craving something rich, chocolatey, and utterly irresistible? Then look no further! This Baker's Fudge recipe is the perfect answer for satisfying your sweet tooth. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less effort. This homemade treat is perfect for gifting, sharing, or simply enjoying a decadent square (or three!) by yourself. Get ready to experience the ultimate in simple yet delicious dessert recipes!
Ingredients:
- 1 (12-ounce) package Baker's semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
- Optional: 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions:
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate and Butter
In a medium-sized, heat-safe bowl, combine the Baker's chocolate chips and butter. Place the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler method), ensuring the bottom of the bowl doesn't touch the water. Stir frequently until the chocolate and butter are completely melted and smooth. This gentle melting prevents scorching and ensures a beautifully smooth fudge.
Step 2: Incorporate Sweetened Condensed Milk and Vanilla
Remove the bowl from the heat and stir in the sweetened condensed milk until well combined. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. The mixture will be thick and creamy.
Step 3: Add Mix-ins (Optional)
If you're adding nuts or marshmallows, gently fold them into the chocolate mixture. Be careful not to overmix, as this can create air bubbles.
Step 4: Set and Cut the Fudge
Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the fudge out later. Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared dish and spread evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, or until the fudge is firm. Once firm, lift the fudge out of the dish using the parchment paper overhang, and cut into squares.
Tips for the Perfect Fudge:
- Use a double boiler: This prevents burning the chocolate and ensures even melting.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing can incorporate air bubbles, resulting in a less smooth fudge.
- Chill thoroughly: Allow the fudge to chill completely before cutting to prevent it from crumbling.
- Get creative with mix-ins: Experiment with different nuts, dried fruits, or even pretzels for a unique twist.
Variations:
- Peanut Butter Fudge: Add 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter to the melted chocolate mixture.
- Mint Chocolate Fudge: Add 1/4 cup of peppermint extract along with the vanilla.
- White Chocolate Fudge: Substitute white chocolate chips for semi-sweet chocolate chips.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the mix-ins used. A standard serving (approximately 1 ounce) will contain roughly:
- Calories: 200-250
- Fat: 12-15g
- Sugar: 20-25g
This delicious Baker's Fudge recipe is a perfect addition to any occasion. Easy to make, adaptable to various tastes, and undeniably delicious, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!