Are you craving a decadent dessert that's surprisingly simple to make? Look no further! This Hershey's Chocolate Fudge recipe is the perfect answer for satisfying your chocolate cravings with minimal effort. It's a classic for a reason – rich, creamy, and intensely chocolatey, this fudge is guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering or a delightful treat for a quiet night in. Get ready to experience the ultimate in homemade chocolate indulgence! This recipe is perfect for those searching for easy recipes, quick dinner ideas (well, dessert ideas!), and delicious dishes that are surprisingly simple to create.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup Hershey's milk chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup Hershey's semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Get started: Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the fudge out later. This is a crucial step for easy removal and clean-up.
Melt the magic: In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the sugar, butter, and evaporated milk. Stir constantly until the butter is completely melted and the sugar is dissolved. This step requires patience and gentle stirring to prevent burning.
Chocolate heaven: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the Hershey's milk chocolate chips and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Continue stirring until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy. A double boiler can also be used for this step for even more gentle melting.
Flavor boost: Stir in the vanilla extract and salt. The salt enhances the chocolate flavor – trust us on this one!
Set it and forget it: Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is firm.
The grand reveal: Once the fudge is firm, lift it out of the dish using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Fudge:
- Use good quality chocolate: The quality of your chocolate will directly impact the taste of your fudge. Hershey's is a great choice, but feel free to experiment with other brands.
- Low and slow: Melting the chocolate and sugar mixture over low heat prevents burning and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
- Don't overcook: Overcooking can result in grainy fudge. Keep a close eye on the mixture and remove it from the heat as soon as the chocolate is melted.
- Patience is key: Allow the fudge to cool completely in the refrigerator before cutting. This ensures clean cuts and prevents the fudge from crumbling.
Variations:
- Nutty Fudge: Add 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or peanuts) to the mixture before pouring it into the dish.
- Mint Chocolate Fudge: Add 1-2 teaspoons of peppermint extract along with the vanilla extract.
- Sea Salt Fudge: Sprinkle a generous pinch of sea salt on top of the fudge before refrigerating. This adds a delicious salty-sweet contrast.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used. It's always best to use a nutrition calculator for precise values.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: Approximately 12-15g
- Sugar: Approximately 25-30g
This Hershey's Chocolate Fudge recipe is a perfect example of a delicious dish that is easy to make and requires only simple ingredients. It's an ideal recipe for those looking for healthy meals (in moderation!), quick dinner ideas (again, dessert!), and homemade cooking at its finest. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying treat!