Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Old Fashioned Cocoa Fudge is the kind of recipe that instantly brings back memories of classic home kitchens and handwritten recipe cards. It is rich, chocolatey, and wonderfully smooth, made with simple pantry ingredients rather than complicated techniques. I first made this fudge when I wanted a traditional chocolate treat without relying on sweetened condensed milk or specialty chocolate, and the results were exactly what I hoped for. The flavor is deep and satisfying, with that unmistakable cocoa richness that feels nostalgic and comforting.
This recipe is perfect for holidays, gifting, or whenever you need a dependable dessert that everyone loves. It sets beautifully, slices cleanly, and stores well, making it ideal for planning ahead. With just a bit of patience and careful stirring, you can create a batch of fudge that tastes like it came straight from a bygone era of classic home cooking.
Print
Old Fashioned Cocoa Fudge: A Timeless Homemade Treat
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 16 pieces
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Old Fashioned Cocoa Fudge is a rich, creamy classic candy made with cocoa powder, sugar, milk, and butter. It has a smooth texture and deep chocolate flavor, just like traditional homemade fudge.
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Butter an 8×8-inch pan and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, salt, and milk.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a rolling boil.
- Stop stirring and let boil until the mixture reaches soft-ball stage (about 234°F / 112°C), about 8–10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and add butter and vanilla. Do not stir.
- Let the mixture cool undisturbed for 10 minutes.
- Beat vigorously with a wooden spoon until the fudge thickens and loses its glossy sheen.
- Quickly pour into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer for best results.
- Do not stir while boiling to avoid grainy texture.
- Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Granulated Sugar
Granulated sugar provides sweetness and structure. When cooked properly, it helps the fudge set with a smooth, creamy texture.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
Cocoa powder delivers the deep chocolate flavor that defines this fudge. Using unsweetened cocoa keeps the flavor rich rather than overly sweet.
Milk
Milk adds creaminess and helps dissolve the sugar and cocoa evenly, creating a smooth base for the fudge.
Butter
Butter adds richness and contributes to the classic melt-in-your-mouth texture of old fashioned fudge.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract enhances the chocolate flavor and adds warmth and depth to the finished fudge.
Directions
Begin by lightly greasing an 8-inch square pan and lining it with parchment paper for easy removal. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar and cocoa powder, stirring well to remove any lumps. Gradually add the milk, stirring until smooth.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently. Once boiling, reduce stirring and allow the mixture to cook until it reaches the soft-ball stage, about 112°C to 115°C (234°F to 240°F) on a candy thermometer. Remove the pan from the heat and add the butter and vanilla extract without stirring.
Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then beat it gently until it thickens and loses its glossy sheen. Pour the fudge into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Let it set at room temperature before cutting into squares.
Equipment needed :
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 25 small squares.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Setting time: 1 hour
Total time: about 1 hour 25 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store Old Fashioned Cocoa Fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, it can be refrigerated for up to two weeks. Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.
Variations and Customizations
This classic cocoa fudge recipe is easy to adapt. For added texture, chopped walnuts or pecans can be folded in just before pouring the fudge into the pan. I have also tried adding a pinch of salt, which enhances the chocolate flavor and balances the sweetness beautifully.
If you prefer a deeper chocolate note, a small amount of espresso powder can be added to the cocoa mixture. For a festive variation, swirl in a spoonful of peanut butter or top the fudge with crushed candy canes before it sets.
These small adjustments allow you to personalize the fudge while preserving its traditional character.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 110 |
| Protein (g) | 1 |
| Carbs (g) | 20 |
| Fat (g) | 3 |
| Saturated Fat (g) | 2 |
| Fiber (g) | 1 |
| Sugar (g) | 18 |
| Sodium (mg) | 20 |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Use a heavy saucepan to prevent scorching.
Do not stir excessively once boiling begins.
Beat gently to achieve a smooth texture.
Use a candy thermometer for consistent results.
FAQs
Why did my fudge turn grainy?
Overstirring or improper temperature can cause crystallization.
Can I make this without a candy thermometer?
Yes, but the soft-ball test requires careful attention.
Is this fudge very sweet?
It is balanced, with rich cocoa flavor rather than overwhelming sweetness.
Can I freeze cocoa fudge?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months.
Why didn’t my fudge set?
It may not have reached the correct temperature during cooking.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but use a larger pan and work carefully to avoid scorching.
Conclusion
Old Fashioned Cocoa Fudge is a timeless dessert that proves simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. With its rich chocolate flavor and classic preparation, it is a recipe worth preserving and sharing. Whether made for special occasions or everyday treats, this fudge delivers comfort, nostalgia, and undeniable homemade charm in every bite.
Hungry for more? Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!