Chocolate Walnut Fudge
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely love making Chocolate Walnut Fudge, especially during the holiday season. The rich chocolate combined with the crunchy walnuts creates a delightful treat that everyone adores. When I whip up this fudge, I often find myself reminiscing about family gatherings where we would all gather around to share sweet stories over delicious treats. The ease of preparation makes it a go-to recipe for both novice and seasoned bakers alike, ensuring a consistency that keeps everyone asking for more.
Every time I make Chocolate Walnut Fudge, it brings back memories of snowy winter evenings spent in the kitchen. We would gather around the table, each taking part in the process, from stirring the chocolate to chopping the walnuts. This fudge sets perfectly because of the careful balance of heat and timing, which I discovered after a few trials, ensuring it remains rich and creamy.
I also learned that using fresh, high-quality chocolate makes a significant difference in flavor. I love to sprinkle a bit of flaked sea salt on top before it sets; the saltiness perfectly complements the richness of the chocolate and provides a delightful crunch with every bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy walnuts
- Smooth, creamy texture that melts in your mouth
- Perfect for sharing with friends and family during celebrations
The Role of Each Ingredient
Understanding the role of each ingredient is essential to achieving the perfect Chocolate Walnut Fudge. The semi-sweet chocolate chips provide a deeply rich flavor that is balanced by the sweetness of the condensed milk, which not only sweetens the fudge but also creates its unique creamy texture. The salt is a crucial addition, amplifying the flavors and preventing the fudge from being overly sweet. When you mix in the walnuts, you introduce a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth chocolate.
Using high-quality chocolate chips can significantly impact the final flavor of your fudge. I recommend opting for a brand that you enjoy eating straight, as the flavors will shine through in the finished product. If you're a fan of dark chocolate, feel free to substitute a portion of the semi-sweet chocolate with dark chocolate chips for a richer taste. Adjusting the chocolate proportions allows you to customize the sweetness to your preference.
Perfecting Your Technique
When melting the chocolate and sweetened condensed milk, it’s critical to keep the heat low and to stir continuously. This prevents the chocolate from scorching, which can lead to a grainy texture instead of the smooth finish you desire. If you notice any signs of seizing or clumping, immediately remove the saucepan from heat and add a small splash of hot water, stirring until it returns to a glossy consistency. This can save your fudge from turning into a baking disaster.
As you fold in the walnuts, be gentle to maintain the light texture of the fudge. Over-mixing can lead to a denser result, which isn’t ideal for this particular recipe. Additionally, for a fun twist, consider adding a handful of dried cherries or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before it sets. These variations can elevate the fudge and give it a unique touch for your gatherings.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Chocolate Walnut Fudge Ingredients
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Make sure to have all your ingredients measured and ready before starting.
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare Your Baking Dish
Line an 8-inch square baking dish with aluminum foil or parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. This will ensure the fudge comes out neatly.
Melt the Chocolate
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
Add Flavor and Walnuts
Remove the saucepan from heat, then mix in the vanilla extract and salt. Gently fold in the chopped walnuts until evenly distributed.
Pour and Set
Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully set.
Cut and Serve
Once the fudge is set, lift it out of the dish using the overhang. Cut into squares and enjoy your delicious Chocolate Walnut Fudge!
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, consider drizzling melted white chocolate over the top before chilling. It adds a nice visual appeal and flavor contrast.
Storage Tips
Once your Chocolate Walnut Fudge is ready, proper storage is key to maintaining its freshness. Keep the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze it. Cut the fudge into squares, layer it between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and it can last up to three months. To enjoy later, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
If you’re planning to serve the fudge at an event, consider bringing it to room temperature before slicing. Cold fudge can be slightly firmer and may not showcase its creamy texture as well. For a delightful presentation, you can drizzle melted chocolate or caramel over the top once it's set, transforming simple fudge into a beautiful dessert that is sure to impress.
Common Troubleshooting
If your fudge doesn’t set properly, the most likely culprit is insufficient chilling time. Ensure you refrigerate the fudge for at least two hours or until it feels firm to the touch. If you accidentally overheat the chocolate during melting, it may cause the fudge to be crumbly instead of smooth. To counteract this, try adding a teaspoon of vegetable oil to help create a smoother texture while mixing in the walnuts, should you encounter this issue.
For the best cutting experience, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry before slicing. This helps create clean edges and avoids the fudge crumbling apart. If the fudge has become too sticky while cutting, placing it back in the fridge for a brief period can help solidify the texture, making it easier to handle.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use nuts other than walnuts?
Yes, feel free to substitute with pecans or almonds, or even leave out nuts if you prefer.
→ How should I store the fudge?
Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate for longer freshness.
→ Can I make this fudge vegan?
You can use dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut condensed milk for a vegan version.
→ What type of chocolate is best for fudge?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips work best, but you can also experiment with dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
Chocolate Walnut Fudge
I absolutely love making Chocolate Walnut Fudge, especially during the holiday season. The rich chocolate combined with the crunchy walnuts creates a delightful treat that everyone adores. When I whip up this fudge, I often find myself reminiscing about family gatherings where we would all gather around to share sweet stories over delicious treats. The ease of preparation makes it a go-to recipe for both novice and seasoned bakers alike, ensuring a consistency that keeps everyone asking for more.
What You'll Need
Chocolate Walnut Fudge Ingredients
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How-To Steps
Line an 8-inch square baking dish with aluminum foil or parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. This will ensure the fudge comes out neatly.
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
Remove the saucepan from heat, then mix in the vanilla extract and salt. Gently fold in the chopped walnuts until evenly distributed.
Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully set.
Once the fudge is set, lift it out of the dish using the overhang. Cut into squares and enjoy your delicious Chocolate Walnut Fudge!
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, consider drizzling melted white chocolate over the top before chilling. It adds a nice visual appeal and flavor contrast.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g