Chocolate Walnut Fudge
Highlighted under: Classic Baking Favorites
I absolutely adore making Chocolate Walnut Fudge, especially when I want to impress friends with a delicious homemade treat. The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy walnuts creates an indulgent experience that’s hard to resist. This recipe is simple, yet the outcome is so luxurious that it feels like a special occasion every time! I love how quickly it comes together, making it perfect when unexpected guests drop by or when I need a sweet pick-me-up at home.
Creating Chocolate Walnut Fudge has become a beloved tradition in my kitchen. I've experimented with different variations, but the classic blend of dark chocolate and toasted walnuts always wins. The key is to melt the chocolate slowly, ensuring it stays silky smooth, which enhances the fudge's creamy texture.
Last week, I made a batch and shared it with my neighbors. They loved the intense chocolate flavor combined with the slight crunch of the walnuts. As a little tip, letting the fudge cool completely before cutting it into squares helps to maintain a neat appearance—presentation is everything!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Decadent chocolate flavor with a nutty crunch
- Rich and creamy texture that melts in your mouth
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for sharing
Understanding the Ingredients
The star of this Chocolate Walnut Fudge is undoubtedly the semisweet chocolate chips. They bring the essential chocolate flavor, along with a slight sweetness that balances beautifully with the rich texture of the fudge. Opting for high-quality chocolate chips will significantly enhance the overall taste; brands like Guittard or Ghirardelli will yield a more decadent result. For those who prefer dark chocolate, using dark chocolate chips can give a richer taste, but remember to adjust the sweetness since they’re less sweet than semisweet varieties.
Sweetened condensed milk not only adds sweetness but also plays a critical role in achieving the fudge’s creamy consistency. It allows the chocolate to set without crystallizing, preventing a grainy texture. If you’re looking for a lower-sugar option, you can try using a sugar-free sweetened condensed milk substitute, though the final outcome might differ slightly in taste and texture.
Perfecting the Technique
When melting the chocolate mixture, stirring constantly is key to ensuring a smooth blend without scorching the chocolate. It's best to use low heat and avoid rushing the process; chocolate can go from perfectly melted to burned in a matter of seconds. Keep an eye on the mixture until you see it becoming glossy and smooth, which usually takes about 5–7 minutes.
Letting the fudge set is just as important as the preparation. Cooling it at room temperature for about 10 minutes helps to prevent the sudden temperature change in the refrigerator, which can cause the fudge to become too firm. You should aim for the fudge to be firm but slightly soft to the touch after chilling for about 2 hours, making it easy to cut into perfectly square pieces.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to make your fudge:
Ingredients
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to prepare your fudge:
Melt the Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
Add Flavor and Nuts
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, chopped walnuts, and a pinch of salt until evenly mixed.
Set the Fudge
Pour the mixture into a greased square baking dish, spreading it evenly. Let it cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to the refrigerator to set for at least 2 hours.
Cut and Serve
Once the fudge is set, lift it from the dish using the edges of the parchment paper. Cut into squares and serve!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, sprinkle some sea salt on top before letting the fudge set for a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This fudge can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for two weeks. If you're planning to make it even further in advance, it can be frozen for up to two months. Just ensure it’s wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.
For serving, you can cut the fudge into varying sizes depending on your preference or occasion. For a party, consider creating smaller bites to share among guests. You can also drizzle melted white chocolate on top for a decorative touch and a contrasting flavor that complements the chocolate.
Variations and Creative Twists
Feel free to experiment with different nuts in your fudge. Pecans or almonds can provide a unique twist while retaining that satisfying crunch. You can also mix in dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for a tart contrast to the sweetness, or even swap the walnuts for peanut butter chips to create a chocolate-peanut butter version that’s equally delightful.
If you want to add a hint of flavor, consider infusing the fudge with espresso or a splash of orange zest. Both additions can elevate the taste profile and make your fudge stand out. Don’t hesitate to adjust the vanilla extract amount based on your personal preference; sometimes, a little extra can deepen the overall flavor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet?
Yes, you can use dark chocolate for a richer flavor! Just ensure it’s at least 60% cocoa.
→ How long can I store the fudge?
The fudge can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
→ Can I add other nuts or ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts, or even dried fruits for added flavor and texture.
→ Why is my fudge too soft?
If the fudge hasn't set properly, it may need more chilling time. Make sure it’s fully cooled before cutting.
Chocolate Walnut Fudge
I absolutely adore making Chocolate Walnut Fudge, especially when I want to impress friends with a delicious homemade treat. The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy walnuts creates an indulgent experience that’s hard to resist. This recipe is simple, yet the outcome is so luxurious that it feels like a special occasion every time! I love how quickly it comes together, making it perfect when unexpected guests drop by or when I need a sweet pick-me-up at home.
Created by: Beatrice Holloway
Recipe Type: Classic Baking Favorites
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 16 pieces
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- Pinch of salt
How-To Steps
In a medium saucepan, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, chopped walnuts, and a pinch of salt until evenly mixed.
Pour the mixture into a greased square baking dish, spreading it evenly. Let it cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to the refrigerator to set for at least 2 hours.
Once the fudge is set, lift it from the dish using the edges of the parchment paper. Cut into squares and serve!
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, sprinkle some sea salt on top before letting the fudge set for a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g