If you’re craving a delightful treat that brings a touch of nostalgia with every bite, this Old Fashioned Black Walnut Fudge Recipe is just what you need. Rich, creamy chocolate fudge studded with earthy, buttery black walnuts takes you right back to the days when homemade sweets ruled the kitchen. It’s a simple but satisfying candy that combines the perfect balance of chocolate and nuts, making it an irresistible classic to share or savor all by yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this fudge just right depends on a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing an essential role in creating its smooth texture, rich taste, and classic look. From the deep cocoa powder to the uniquely flavorful black walnuts, these are pantry staples that come together magically.
- 3 cups granulated sugar: This sweet foundation caramelizes perfectly to create fudge’s signature texture and sweetness.
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds that rich, velvety chocolate flavor without extra sweetness, balancing the fudge beautifully.
- 1 cup whole milk: Provides creaminess and moisture, helping the fudge set with just the right softness.
- â…› teaspoon salt: A pinch to enhance all the flavors and prevent the fudge from tasting flat.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Cut into pieces and added at the end to give the fudge a glossy finish and melt-in-your-mouth richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Introduces a warm, comforting aroma that rounds out the chocolate and nut flavors perfectly.
- 1 cup chopped black walnuts: These bring an earthy, slightly tangy crunch that makes this fudge truly special and memorable.
How to Make Old Fashioned Black Walnut Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Ingredients
Start by greasing an 8×8-inch square pan thoroughly and set it aside. This step is crucial because it ensures your fudge will release easily once set. Having all your ingredients measured and ready to go is a lifesaver since fudge-making is a bit of a timing game.
Step 2: Combine Sugar, Cocoa, Milk, and Salt
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, stir together the granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, whole milk, and salt over medium heat. Keep stirring gently until the mixture comes to a boil. This combination lays the rich chocolatey groundwork for your fudge’s flavor and texture.
Step 3: Let the Mixture Boil Undisturbed
Once boiling, stop stirring completely. Allow the mixture to bubble away until it reaches the soft-ball stage, about 234 to 240 degrees Fahrenheit on a candy thermometer. This part takes around 10 to 15 minutes and is key to achieving the perfect fudge texture. Stirring during this time can cause graininess, so exercise patience!
Step 4: Add Butter and Vanilla, Then Cool
Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the butter pieces and vanilla extract without mixing. Let the pan sit completely undisturbed for 5 minutes until the bottom feels just warm to the touch. This cooling period lets the fudge mixture settle so it can properly thicken in the next step.
Step 5: Beat the Mixture Vigorously
Now for the workout: beat the fudge vigorously with a wooden spoon until it thickens, loses its gloss, and holds its shape, which takes around 5 to 8 minutes. This step transforms the fudge from a syrupy liquid into a luscious, creamy candy base.
Step 6: Fold in Black Walnuts and Set
Stir in the chopped black walnuts quickly but gently, then immediately pour the fudge into your prepared pan. Smooth the top evenly and let it set at room temperature completely before cutting into small squares. The walnuts provide a surprisingly vibrant flavor and texture that elevate this classic recipe.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Black Walnut Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
While this fudge shines on its own, sprinkling a few whole black walnuts or a light dusting of cocoa powder on top before it sets can add a lovely decorative touch. For parties, try drizzling a bit of melted white chocolate in a zigzag pattern for extra flair.
Side Dishes
This fudge pairs beautifully with a strong cup of coffee or robust black tea, balancing the sweetness and enhancing the nutty chocolate flavors. It also works fabulously as an afternoon pick-me-up alongside fresh berries or a slice of tangy cheesecake.
Creative Ways to Present
Present this Old Fashioned Black Walnut Fudge Recipe in small, festive gift boxes lined with parchment paper for thoughtful homemade gifts. For gatherings, arrange squares on a pretty platter with colorful napkins and tiny forks for guests to indulge easily and elegantly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature. Properly sealed, it will stay fresh and delicious for up to one week. Avoid refrigeration as it may harden and lose some of its creamy texture, but if your kitchen is especially warm, a cool spot is fine.
Freezing
If you want to keep your fudge longer, freezing is an option. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When unwrapped and thawed at room temperature, the fudge will retain its rich flavor and texture beautifully.
Reheating
Fudge is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if you prefer it softer, warming it slightly in your hands or for a few seconds in the microwave on low power can revive that melt-in-your-mouth softness. Be careful not to overheat, as it can become grainy or oily.
FAQs
Can I substitute black walnuts with another type of nut?
Absolutely! While black walnuts offer a unique earthy flavor, regular walnuts, pecans, or even hazelnuts can be used. Just keep in mind the taste will be slightly different but still delicious.
Why does my fudge sometimes turn out grainy?
Graininess usually happens if the sugar crystallizes during boiling or if you stir the mixture while it’s boiling. Make sure to follow the recipe method closely, especially by not stirring once it starts boiling.
Do I need a candy thermometer to make this fudge?
Having a candy thermometer helps achieve perfect results by ensuring the mixture reaches the soft-ball stage. However, if you don’t have one, you can test by dropping a bit of syrup into cold water to see if it forms a soft ball that flattens when removed.
Can I make smaller batches of this fudge?
Yes, you can halve the recipe easily. Just be precise in measuring and monitoring the cooking temperature, as smaller batches may cook faster.
How long does it take for the fudge to set?
Typically, the fudge will set firm enough to cut after a few hours at room temperature. For best results and cleaner cuts, wait until it’s fully firm, usually overnight.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Old Fashioned Black Walnut Fudge Recipe enough if you want to enjoy a delightful blast from the past with every bite. It’s simple to make, uses honest ingredients, and delivers comfort wrapped in chocolatey, nutty goodness. Try it out and watch how this classic fudge becomes an instant favorite in your kitchen!
Print
Old Fashioned Black Walnut Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes (plus cooling and setting time)
- Yield: 25 small squares
- Category: Dessert, Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
This Old Fashioned Black Walnut Fudge is a rich, creamy homemade candy featuring the deep, earthy flavor of black walnuts. Made with simple ingredients like cocoa, sugar, and milk, this classic American dessert is cooked to the perfect soft-ball stage on the stovetop, then beaten to a smooth, glossy finish before setting into delicious squares.
Ingredients
Fudge Ingredients
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup whole milk
- â…› teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped black walnuts
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Grease an 8×8-inch square pan thoroughly and set it aside to ensure the fudge does not stick after cooking.
- Combine Ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, mix together the granulated sugar, cocoa powder, whole milk, and salt. Stir the mixture over medium heat until it begins to boil.
- Boil to Soft-Ball Stage: Once boiling, stop stirring and allow the mixture to cook undisturbed. Continue boiling until the mixture reaches the soft-ball stage, around 234–240°F (112–115°C) on a candy thermometer, which takes about 10–15 minutes.
- Add Butter and Vanilla: Remove the pan from heat and quickly add the unsalted butter pieces and vanilla extract without stirring them in.
- Cool Slightly: Let the mixture rest undisturbed for about 5 minutes until the bottom of the pan feels just warm to the touch. This cooling step prepares the fudge for beating.
- Beat the Mixture: Using a wooden spoon, beat the fudge vigorously for 5–8 minutes until it thickens, loses its glossy sheen, and begins to hold shape, indicating it is ready to set.
- Add Walnuts: Stir in the chopped black walnuts quickly and thoroughly to evenly distribute them through the fudge.
- Set the Fudge: Immediately pour the fudge into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula or spoon. Let it set completely at room temperature before cutting into approximately 25 small squares.
Notes
- Do not stir the fudge while it is boiling to prevent crystallization and grainy texture.
- Black walnuts can be substituted with regular walnuts, but black walnuts impart a richer and earthier flavor.
- Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness.
- Beating the fudge properly is critical to achieving a smooth texture and glossy appearance.
