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Michele's Quick and Easy Fudge

Source of Recipe

From "Basic to Brilliant, Y'all" by Virginia Willis


Recipe Introduction

"Who doesn't like fudge? And, better yet, what busy cook doesn't like a Basic dump-and-stir candy made from essential pantry ingredients, with no candy thermometer required? Sign me up. This fudge will do duty for a school's bake sale, is great to have around for a family gathering or tailgating weekend, and, when Brilliant, is suitable for a grown-up supper club."

List of Ingredients

â—¦ 1 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), plus more for the pan
â—¦ ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
â—¦ 1 (16-ounce) box confectioners' sugar, sifted
â—¦ ¼ cup low-fat or whole milk
â—¦ ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
â—¦ ½ cup chopped walnuts, peanuts, or pecans, toasted
â—¦ 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract


Recipe

Brush an 8-inch square baking dish with butter.

Melt the butter with the salt in a heavy saucepan over low heat. Whisk in the confectioners' sugar and milk until very smooth. Add the cocoa; stir until combined and remove from the heat. Add the walnuts and vanilla; stir until combined. The fudge will have a very smooth, shiny texture.

Spoon the fudge into the prepared dish. Transfer to the refrigerator until set, at least 2 hours. Or, if you just can't wait, slip it in the freezer. Run a knife around the edge of the pan and invert the firm block of fudge onto a clean work surface. Using a long utility knife, slice into 1 â…“-inch cubes. Heat the knife in hot water and pat dry before each cut for the smoothest slices. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Makes 1 (8-inch) square



• Brilliant: Fudge-Pops
Basic chocolate fudge is always welcome, but make it a fudge pop and it's Brilliant. Before the mixture has fully set, score the surface to make 1 â…“-inch-size pieces. Insert a wooden skewer (or a peppermint stick during the holidays) into the center of each square. Carefully cut into cubes. Refrigerate to set. Place 1 cup finely chopped nuts or crushed peppermint candy in a bowl. Firmly press each side of the block in the topping to coat. Makes about 3 dozen pieces