Homemade butter fudge is an incredibly simple and indulgent treat you'll love making. Just gather unsalted butter, sugar, milk, and corn syrup, then cook them to the perfect soft ball stage for that creamy texture. After cooling, add in vanilla, pour into a pan, and let it chill until firm. Cut into squares for easy serving. It's perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying during a cozy night in. Keep going to discover some tips and tricks!
Key Takeaways
- Butter fudge, also known as "Queens Fudge," has a rich history dating back to the late 1800s, making it a cherished treat.
- This simple recipe requires just five ingredients: butter, sugar, milk, corn syrup, and optional nuts for added flavor.
- Cooking to the soft ball stage (235°F) is crucial for achieving the fudge's signature creamy texture and melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
- After cooling, the fudge should be poured into a lined pan and chilled until firm for easy cutting and serving.
- Enjoy butter fudge as a delightful treat, perfect for sharing, gifting, or pairing with coffee or tea.
History
Butter fudge, often called "Queens Fudge," has a fascinating history that makes it a beloved treat during holidays. Its roots trace back to the late 1800s, when fudge became a staple in tourist destinations like Mackinac Island.
Visitors flocked to fudge shops, creating a sweet tradition that families cherish today. The creamy texture of butter fudge comes from the careful crystallization of sugar, a process that results in its signature mouthfeel.
Your grandmother might've passed down a treasured recipe, echoing a nostalgic connection to the past. Over time, homemade versions have evolved, reflecting regional flavors with personal touches, like candied pecans. This evolution ensures butter fudge remains a favorite sweet treat during the holiday season, often made using high-quality butter to enhance its rich flavor.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1 cup chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts)
Instructions:
Begin by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns golden brown.
In a separate bowl, combine the sugar, milk, and corn syrup, then gradually add this mixture to the melted butter, stirring constantly.
Cook the mixture until it reaches the soft ball stage, which is 235 degrees Fahrenheit on a candy thermometer.
Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the saucepan from heat and allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
After cooling, beat the fudge until it thickens and becomes creamy, then pour it into a lined 8×8 pan.
Let the fudge set at room temperature for at least 6 hours until firm.
Extra Tips:
When making butter fudge, patience is key.
It's essential to monitor the cooking temperature closely to avoid overcooking, which can lead to a grainy texture.
If you prefer a smoother fudge, consider using a whisk during the beating process instead of a wooden spoon.
Additionally, for added flavor, experiment with different extracts or mix-ins such as chocolate chips or dried fruit.
Store your fudge in an airtight container to maintain its freshness, and remember, it can also be refrigerated for an extended shelf life. Using unsalted sweet cream butter will help control the flavor in your fudge, enhancing its sweetness.
Enjoy your homemade creation!
Cooking Steps
To make your homemade butter fudge, you'll want to gather all your ingredients first.
Start by combining the melted butter with sugar, then stir in the vanilla extract for that extra flavor.
Once it's well mixed, pour the mixture into your prepared pan and chill it until it's firm.
Step 1. Gather All Ingredients Needed
Gathering all necessary ingredients is crucial for making delicious homemade butter fudge. Start by collecting unsalted butter, sugar, milk, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and optional nuts for your butter fudge recipe.
Pre-measure these ingredients to streamline your cooking process and avoid spills. You'll also need a medium saucepan, an 8×8 pan lined with aluminum foil, and a candy thermometer for precise cooking.
Having a hand-held mixer or wooden spoon ready will help you beat the fudge after it cools to room temperature, ensuring the right texture. Remember to set aside time for cooling, as this step is essential for achieving the desired consistency.
Once ready, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.
[DIRECTIONS]:Step 2. Combine Butter and Sugar
With all your ingredients ready, you're set to combine the butter and sugar for your fudge.
Start by melting unsalted butter in a medium to large saucepan over medium to high heat. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching and keep an eye on it. Once the butter melts, let it cook until it reaches a golden brown color and you smell a nutty aroma.
Next, combine the melted butter with sugar, milk, and corn syrup. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely, creating a smooth mixture. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature, bringing the mixture to 235 degrees Fahrenheit, the soft ball stage crucial for fudge consistency.
Allow this mixture to cool to room temperature for about 45 minutes before moving forward.
Step 3. Stir in Vanilla Extract
Once your fudge mixture has cooled and thickened, it's time to add that essential touch of flavor. Stir in vanilla extract—about 1 teaspoon should do the trick for a rich taste.
Make sure to add it after beating the mixture to preserve its delicate flavor. Use a spatula or mixer on low speed to incorporate the vanilla evenly into the fudge.
Be careful not to over-beat it, as that can lead to a grainy texture instead of the smooth consistency you want for perfect fudge. This step enhances the overall flavor profile, making it a great recipe for any sweet treat lover.
After mixing, you'll be ready to smooth the top before moving on to the next steps.
Step 4. Pour Into Prepared Pan
After you've beaten the fudge mixture to a thick, creamy consistency, it's time to pour it into the prepared 8×8 pan lined with aluminum foil.
This step makes it easy to remove the fudge later. Use a spatula or scraper to smooth the top, ensuring an even thickness for a beautiful presentation.
Once you've got it looking just right, let the fudge sit at room temperature for several hours, or pop it in the fridge for a quicker set—about 1-2 hours should do it.
When the fudge is firm, you can lift it out using the foil edges, making it easy to cut into 1-inch squares.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to keep this sweet treat fresh!
Step 5. Chill Until Firm
To ensure your homemade butter fudge sets perfectly, chill it until firm for about 6 hours.
After beating your peanut butter mixture to achieve that thick, creamy consistency, you need to spread it evenly into a lined 8×8 pan. This step is crucial for uniform cutting later.
Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for about 45 minutes first, as this helps it to thicken properly.
Once you've poured it into the pan, resist the temptation to cut into it too soon. Proper chilling is essential to maintain its shape and prevent a sticky mess.
Final Thoughts
As you savor the rich, creamy sweetness of homemade butter fudge, you can't help but appreciate the simplicity and joy it brings to any occasion.
This delightful treat, often enhanced with butter and chocolate or nuts for added texture, is simple to make and perfect for sharing. The process of cooking it to the soft ball stage ensures a smooth consistency that melts in your mouth.
Once cooled, store it in an airtight container to maintain its rich flavor, whether you keep it at room temperature for a week or in the fridge for a month.
Cut into 1-inch squares, it makes a wonderful gift or a sweet indulgence alongside your favorite coffee or tea. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Secret to Making Good Fudge?
To craft the perfect fudge, you'll need to dance with precision and patience.
The secret lies in reaching that magical temperature of 235 degrees Fahrenheit, the soft ball stage. Once it starts boiling, resist the urge to stir; otherwise, you risk a grainy disaster.
Keep a close eye on your candy thermometer, and let it cool before you beat it into creamy perfection.
What Happens if I Use Sweetened Condensed Milk Instead of Evaporated Milk in Fudge?
If you use sweetened condensed milk instead of evaporated milk in fudge, you'll end up with a much sweeter treat.
The thicker consistency of condensed milk can make your fudge creamier and denser, but it might also turn sticky if not balanced right.
You'll need to adjust your cooking time and temperature to achieve the perfect texture, as the sugar content significantly affects the cooking process.
Just be careful not to oversweeten your fudge!
Why Is My 3 Ingredient Fudge Not Setting?
Imagine trying to build a sandcastle with wet sand, only to find it crumbling apart.
That's what can happen to your 3-ingredient fudge if it doesn't set. If your fudge isn't firming up, you mightn't have cooked it to the soft ball stage, or it might need more cooling time before beating.
Check your temperatures and ensure you mix thoroughly; the right consistency is key for a smooth, solid result.
How Do You Make Paula Deen's 5 Minute Fudge?
To make Paula Deen's 5 Minute Fudge, start by melting 1/2 cup of butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
Stir in 1 cup of brown sugar and 1/2 cup of milk, bringing it to a boil for about 2 minutes.
Once boiling, remove it from heat, then mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 3 ½ cups of confectioners' sugar until smooth.
Pour into a greased dish and let it cool until set.
From sneaky childhood butter licks to penning some of our most popular articles, Jamie’s journey with butter has been lifelong. His culinary background gives him a unique perspective, allowing him to craft mouthwatering articles that educate and tantalize equally. Jamie’s travel adventures revolve around finding the world’s best buttery treats when he isn’t writing.
