Old Fashioned Hershey Cocoa Fudge

There’s something timeless about indulging in a piece of classic chocolate fudge. This Old Fashioned Hershey Cocoa Fudge encapsulates that perfect blend of nostalgia and rich cocoa flavor, making it an irresistible treat for chocolate lovers. Made with pure unsweetened Hershey’s cocoa, this fudge is a testament to the authentic taste of chocolate, free from corn syrup, chocolate chips, or marshmallow creme. Each bite promises a creamy texture and a deep cocoa experience that is simply unparalleled.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you cherish the pure, unadulterated flavor of chocolate, this fudge is for you. Its simplicity allows the cocoa to shine, offering a bittersweet delight that’s both rich and satisfying. Unlike quick-cook fudges, this recipe is for those who appreciate the art of traditional candy-making. It’s a bit of a challenge, but the reward is a perfect batch of fudge that you can be truly proud of.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 8-inch square baking dish
• Foil
• Butter for greasing
• Medium heavy saucepan
• Candy thermometer
• Wooden spoon
• Cold water for cooling
• Optional: Candy tin or airtight container for storage

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup Hershey’s unsweetened cocoa
• 3 cups sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions

1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with foil, allowing the foil to hang over the sides. Lightly grease the foil with butter.
2. In a medium heavy saucepan, combine cocoa, sugar, salt, and milk. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Once boiling, continue cooking without stirring until the mixture reaches 234°F on a candy thermometer or forms a soft ball in cold water.
3. Remove from heat and place the pan in a sink with at least two inches of cold water. Add the butter and vanilla, but do not stir. Let the pan sit in cold water until the mixture reaches room temperature.
4. Take the pan out of the cold water. Using a wooden spoon, mix to incorporate the melted butter and vanilla. Beat until the fudge loses its shiny appearance and becomes satiny. This may take some time.
5. If using nuts, stir them in and immediately spread the fudge into the prepared dish. Let it sit for at least an hour before cutting into pieces.
6. Store the fudge in a candy tin or airtight container.

Tips for Success

Patience is key when making this fudge. Ensure you reach the correct temperature and don’t rush the cooling process. Stirring at the wrong time can affect the texture, so follow the steps closely.

Additional Tips and Variations

You can experiment by adding different types of nuts or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a unique twist. For a smoother texture, ensure all sugar granules are dissolved before the fudge boils.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This fudge is a rich treat, so enjoy it in moderation. It provides a delightful cocoa flavor without additional sweeteners or preservatives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why did my fudge turn out grainy? Make sure to reach the right temperature and stir at the correct times to avoid graininess.

Can I use a different type of cocoa? For the classic taste, Hershey’s unsweetened cocoa is recommended, but you can experiment with other brands if needed.

Conclusion

Are you ready to take on the challenge of creating this classic Old Fashioned Hershey Cocoa Fudge? We’d love to hear how your batch turns out, so please share your experiences and any tweaks you made to the recipe. Happy fudging!