Are you craving a rich, intensely chocolatey treat that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Hershey's Cocoa fudge recipe is the perfect answer for satisfying your chocolate cravings. It's a classic recipe, elevated with the deep, familiar flavor of Hershey's cocoa, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this easy recipe will guide you to homemade fudge perfection. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious, homemade dessert!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup Hershey's unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy lifting later. This is a crucial step for clean removal and beautiful fudge squares.
Make the Fudge Base:
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In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and butter. Stir constantly until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth. This prevents scorching and ensures a consistent texture.
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Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring continuously. Once boiling, continue to stir for one minute without stopping. This crucial step ensures the fudge reaches the right consistency.
Cooling and Setting:
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Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt. The vanilla enhances the chocolate flavor, while the salt balances the sweetness.
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Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until they are completely melted and incorporated into the fudge mixture. Don't rush this step; it ensures a uniform chocolate distribution.
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Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
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Let the fudge cool completely at room temperature for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to fully set. This is key for achieving the perfect fudge texture.
Serving:
- Once the fudge is firm, lift it out of the dish using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Tips for Fudge Perfection:
- Use good quality cocoa powder: Hershey's cocoa powder delivers a rich, intense chocolate flavor.
- Don't rush the cooking process: Stirring constantly is vital to prevent burning and ensures a smooth texture.
- Let it cool completely: Patience is key here! Allowing the fudge to cool completely prevents it from being crumbly.
- Experiment with add-ins: Get creative! Nuts, marshmallows, or other types of chocolate chips can be added to the fudge mixture for added flavor and texture.
Variations:
- Peanut Butter Fudge: Add 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter to the mixture along with the chocolate chips.
- Mint Chocolate Fudge: Add 1-2 teaspoons of peppermint extract along with the vanilla extract.
- White Chocolate Fudge: Replace the semi-sweet chocolate chips with white chocolate chips.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. It's always best to use a nutrition calculator for a more precise analysis.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: Approximately 10-12g
- Sugar: Approximately 25-30g
This Hershey's Cocoa fudge recipe is a delightful and simple dessert perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delicious results of your homemade cooking! It's a guaranteed way to impress your loved ones with a sweet and delicious treat. Happy baking!