Are you craving a rich, decadent dessert that's surprisingly simple to make? Look no further! This homemade chocolate walnut fudge recipe is the perfect answer for satisfying your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a delicious dish, perfect for gifting or enjoying a little piece of happiness yourself. This easy recipe is ideal for beginners, providing a quick dinner alternative or a delightful addition to your healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 (12-ounce) package 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
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare your pan
Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the fudge out later. This simple step makes removing the finished fudge much easier.
Step 2: Melt the chocolate
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir frequently until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy. Be patient and avoid high heat to prevent burning.
Step 3: Stir in the flavor
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and chopped walnuts. Mix well to ensure the walnuts are evenly distributed throughout the fudge.
Step 4: Set and chill
Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is firm. This allows the fudge to set properly and develop its rich texture.
Step 5: Cut and serve
Once the fudge is firm, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into small squares and serve. Store leftover fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Tips for the Best Chocolate Walnut Fudge:
- Use high-quality chocolate: The flavor of your fudge will be significantly impacted by the chocolate you choose. Opt for a good quality semi-sweet chocolate for the best results.
- Don't overheat: Low and slow is the key here. Overheating the mixture can cause the chocolate to seize or burn.
- Toast your walnuts: Toasting the walnuts before adding them to the fudge will enhance their flavor and provide a nice crunchy contrast to the creamy texture. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of sea salt: A sprinkle of sea salt can enhance the chocolate flavor and create a delightful salty-sweet combination.
- Use different nuts: Feel free to experiment with other nuts like pecans, almonds, or macadamia nuts.
- Add espresso powder: For a mocha fudge, add 1-2 tablespoons of espresso powder to the mixture.
- Drizzle with melted chocolate: Once the fudge has set, drizzle it with melted dark chocolate for an extra touch of elegance.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For a more precise calculation, use a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredient brands. However, a general estimate per serving (assuming 16 servings) is roughly:
- Calories: 200-250
- Fat: 12-15g
- Saturated Fat: 7-9g
- Sugar: 20-25g
- Protein: 2-3g
This chocolate walnut fudge is a simple yet impressive dessert that's perfect for any occasion. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking, offering delicious dishes easily made with readily available ingredients. Enjoy!