This famous Carnation fudge recipe takes all the guesswork out of making perfect fudge!
Whether it’s the holidays or just a regular Sunday, this fudge makes the most excellent homemade present. Or a present to yourself. You deserve it!
And this recipe is so wonderfully sweet, creamy, and chocolatey, one bite is sure to capture your heart.
It also couldn’t be easier to make. With this simple recipe, it’s impossible to fudge up fudge.
So, without further ado, let’s take a look at this famous Carnation fudge recipe!
Carnation Fudge
Traditional fudge takes a lot of effort, but this recipe eliminates all those difficult steps and transforms fudge-making into an easy-peasy process.
But don’t worry, just because it’s simple doesn’t mean it’s lacking in flavor. This fudge is just as smooth, creamy, and delicious as can be.
With a simple combination of milk, sugar, chocolate, marshmallows, and a bit of salt and vanilla, you’ll get the ultimate fudge with the perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this amazing homemade fudge.
- Evaporated Milk. Without dairy, your fudge will be too tough! You’ll want to use milk with a low water content because it makes it easier for the sugar to set post-cooking. That said, evaporated milk is your best option.
- Sugar. The recipe calls for granulated sugar, but you can use powdered sugar as well, especially if you want a smoother fudge.
- Salt. For a nice, salty contrast.
- Walnuts. For that lovely crunch. Other nuts, such as almonds, cashews, pecans, and hazelnuts work, too!
- Mini-Marshmallows. They add creaminess to the fudge and help it to set. Marshmallow Fluff works for this recipe as well.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips. They give the fudge just the right level of sweetness. If you want a deeper chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate. White chocolate works, too, especially if you have a sweet tooth.
- Vanilla Extract. For that extra depth of flavor.
Tips for the Best Fudge
Follow these quick and easy tips to ensure your fudge comes out perfectly the first time.
- Use high-quality ingredients. You’ll want to ensure you like the taste of the chocolate you’re using because it makes up the primary flavor of the fudge. Do not skimp on the quality of chocolate in this recipe!
- Prevent sticking. To prevent the mini marshmallows from sticking to the saucepan, grease it with cooking spray before adding them. You’ll thank me later.
- Stir quickly! The mixture will start to firm up once the chocolate and marshmallows are in. Stir it quickly with a metal spoon.
- Flavor the fudge with extracts. Stir it into the milk and sugar mixture before adding the chocolate and marshmallows. Vanilla is always a hit, but experiment with different flavors like almond, coconut, maple, or peppermint.
- Garnish with sea salt. Sprinkle your fudge with a bit of sea salt for a sweet and salty contrast. It also helps amplify the flavor of chocolate.
- Bust out the candy thermometer. To know when the sugar-milk mixture is ready to be removed from the heat, check the temperature using a candy thermometer. Once it reads 234 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s all set.
- Do not over-mix the fudge. Otherwise, it won’t be spreadable or will be too tough. Stop stirring once the fudge turns into a thick, frosting-like consistency. It will also lose its sheen at this point.
- Add dried fruit. Add some dried fruits such as cranberries or cherries for a chewy contrast. They’ll also add a charming and festive pop of color.
How Long Does It Take for the Fudge to Set?
Waiting for the fudge to set is without a doubt the most challenging part about making it.
It takes at least 3 hours to set at room temperature, otherwise, it won’t have that lovely consistency.
If it’s humid in your area, your fudge might need more time to set. Cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and let it set in the fridge overnight.
If your fudge does not set, here are the possible reasons:
- You didn’t cook it long enough. The chocolate and mini marshmallows must be completely melted before transferring the fudge into the pan.
- You didn’t measure the sugar accurately. The sugar is key to helping the fudge firm up. If you didn’t put enough in, chances are, your fudge will be too soft.
- You overdid the milk. Adding too much liquid will make the fudge too gooey.
How to Store Carnation Fudge
The great thing about fudge is it has a long shelf life. As long as you follow these storage tips, you can enjoy this fudge recipe all month!
- To store. Place chocolate fudge in an airtight container and store it in the fridge. It will keep well for up to a month.
- To freeze. If you want your fudge to last longer, keep it in the freezer for up to 6 months! Place the fudge in an airtight container and separate each layer with a sheet of wax paper.
Whatever you do, do not store fudge at room temperature for long periods of time. Otherwise, it will get really soft and gooey.
Carnation Fudge (Famous Recipe)
49
servings10
minutes10
minutes74
kcalIngredients
3/4 cup evaporated milk
1 3/4 cups sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
2/3 cups walnuts, chopped
1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare all the ingredients. They need to be within reach once you start cooking.
- Grease a 9-inch square pan with butter or margarine and set aside.
- Stir evaporated milk, sugar, and salt in a medium saucepan. Bring mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and add the nuts, mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and vanilla. Stir the ingredients together until the marshmallows have completely melted.
- Pour the mixture into the greased pan and spread evenly. Let the fudge rest at room temperature to cool.
- Once the fudge has cooled completely, slice it into squares or bars. Enjoy!
