Granny Sunshine's Fudge

Indulge in the nostalgic sweetness of Granny Sunshine's Fudge—a decadent treat that combines traditional candy-making techniques with irresistible homemade charm. This creamy, rich fudge is crafted with classic ingredients like granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and whole milk, then elevated with a touch of vanilla and optional chopped nuts for added texture. Perfectly calibrated to achieve soft-ball stage precision, the recipe guarantees a melt-in-your-mouth consistency with a glossy finish that transforms into a velvety bite after cooling. Whether enjoyed as a holiday dessert, gifted to loved ones, or savored as an anytime indulgence, this easy-to-follow fudge recipe delivers timeless comfort and sweetness in every bite.

Nutriscore Rating: 55/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 24

Ingredients

• 3 cups Granulated sugar
• 0.75 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1.5 cups Whole milk
• 0.5 cup Unsalted butter
• 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract
• 0.25 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 0.5 cup Chopped nuts (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Prepare an 8x8-inch square baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang for easy removal later. Lightly grease the paper with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2

In a medium-sized heavy-bottomed saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar and unsweetened cocoa powder.

Step 3

Slowly whisk in the whole milk until the mixture is smooth and no dry cocoa lumps remain.

Step 4

Place the saucepan over medium heat and attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan, ensuring the end doesn't touch the bottom of the pan.

Step 5

Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or heat-safe spatula until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture begins to boil. Stop stirring once it reaches a boil.

Step 6

Allow the mixture to cook undisturbed until the thermometer reads 238°F (114°C), the soft-ball stage. This will take around 15 minutes. Be cautious not to let it overcook as it will affect the texture.

Step 7

Remove the pan from heat and add the unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and kosher salt. Do not stir immediately.

Step 8

Let the mixture cool undisturbed for 10-15 minutes, or until the temperature drops to about 110°F (43°C).

Step 9

Once cooled slightly, beat the mixture vigorously with a wooden spoon until it thickens and loses its glossy sheen, about 4-5 minutes. If using nuts, fold them in during this stage.

Step 10

Quickly pour the fudge into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula before it sets.

Step 11

Let the fudge cool completely at room temperature for 2-3 hours, or speed up the process by chilling it in the refrigerator for 1 hour.

Step 12

Once firm, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper and cut into 1-inch squares. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1265.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3715.5

Total Fat 115.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 52.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.4g
Cholesterol 167.9mg	0%
Sodium 295.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 740.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 69.7g	0%
Total Sugars 624.6g
Protein 58.5g	0%

Vitamin D 161.0IU	0%
Calcium 731.7mg	0%
Iron 30.8mg	0%
Potassium 3667.3mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 24.6%

Protein: 5.5%

Carbs: 69.9%