Cherish the sweetness of Old Fashioned Fudge! 🍫

2 cups granulated sugar

1/2 cup whole milk

1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)

1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans)

Instructions

Prepare the Pan:

Grease an 8×8-inch square pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Set aside.

Mix the Ingredients:

In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, milk, butter, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir to mix well.

Cook the Mixture:

Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes without stirring, or until it reaches the soft-ball stage (234°F/112°C on a candy thermometer).

Add Vanilla and Nuts:

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. If using nuts, fold them in now.

Beat the Fudge:

Let the mixture cool slightly for 2-3 minutes, then beat it with a wooden spoon or electric mixer until it thickens and loses its glossy shine. This will take about 5-8 minutes.