Are you craving a decadent dessert that's surprisingly simple to make? Look no further! This vanilla walnut fudge recipe is the perfect answer for satisfying your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a delightful blend of creamy vanilla and crunchy walnuts, creating a texture and flavor combination that's irresistible. Perfect for gifting, sharing, or simply enjoying a little piece of homemade heaven, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let's dive into this easy recipe and whip up some delicious fudge!
Ingredients:
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12-ounce) package semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate and Butter
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips and butter. Stir frequently until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy. This gentle melting process prevents burning and ensures a perfectly smooth fudge base.
Step 2: Add Sweetened Condensed Milk and Vanilla
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined and the mixture is completely smooth. A whisk works well for this step, ensuring no lumps remain.
Step 3: Stir in Walnuts
Gently fold in the chopped walnuts. Be careful not to overmix, as this can incorporate too much air and affect the fudge's texture. Aim for an even distribution of walnuts throughout the fudge.
Step 4: Pour and Set
Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the fudge out later. Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared dish and spread evenly.
Step 5: Chill and Cut
Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2-3 hours, or until it's firm enough to cut. Once chilled, lift the fudge from the baking dish using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into small squares and serve.
Tips for the Best Vanilla Walnut Fudge:
- Use good quality chocolate: The flavor of your fudge will be greatly enhanced by using high-quality chocolate chips.
- Don't overheat the mixture: Keep the heat low while melting the chocolate and butter to prevent burning.
- Chill thoroughly: Allowing the fudge to chill completely ensures a firm and easily-cut texture.
- Get creative with nuts: Feel free to experiment with other nuts like pecans or almonds, or even a mix of different nuts.
Variations:
- Sea Salt Fudge: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the fudge before chilling for a delightful sweet and salty contrast.
- Espresso Fudge: Add 1-2 teaspoons of instant espresso powder to the mixture for a mocha-flavored fudge.
- Chocolate Fudge with other additions: Add dried cranberries, chopped pretzels or even marshmallows for a surprising twist.
Nutritional Information (per square, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Sugar: 15-20g
This delicious and easy vanilla walnut fudge recipe is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the process of homemade cooking and the satisfaction of creating a truly delightful treat. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is accessible and rewarding. Share your fudge creations with friends and family – they’ll thank you for it!