Old Fashioned Fudge

4 from 2 votes

Make old-fashioned fudge like a pro with our simple, science-backed recipe for smooth and creamy fudge made using just 6 ingredients.

Prep Time5

Cook Time15

Cooling Time2

Total Time2 20

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Old Fashioned Fudge

Servings: pieces

Lightly grease or line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar and 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder until evenly combined. Add 1 cup heavy cream and 1/4 cup light corn syrup, then stir to combine.
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer, stirring occasionally, until it reaches 235–238°F on a candy thermometer (soft-ball stage).
Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the mixture to cool undisturbed until it reaches at least 180°F. Once cooled, add 1/2 cup salted butter and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir briskly for 1 minute or until the butter is fully melted and incorporated.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Let it cool completely at room temperature until set. Once firm, cut into small squares and serve.

If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test by dropping a small spoonful of the hot mixture into a bowl of cold water. If it forms a soft ball that flattens when pressed between your fingers, it’s ready.