Types of Fudge

Fudge is a popular dessert during the holidays.

Fudge has been made since the 18th century in England, though it truly became popular after college students sold it during the holiday season near the end of the 19th century. Chocolate fudge is the basic form, combining milk, chocolate and corn syrup. But there are multiple variations you can make.

Chocolate Fudge

Chocolate fudge can be made in multiple ways. A longer version is made using a double boiler and slowly melting chocolate, while a quick fudge can be made using the microwave. Chocolate fudge often uses marshmallows as a thickener and sweetener. Some people like to add chopped walnuts, almonds or pecans to a basic chocolate fudge recipe to add variety and texture. If you do add nuts, let people know before they eat the fudge to prevent allergic reactions.

Hot Fudge

Technically, hot fudge isn’t true fudge. Instead, it is a thick syrup used as a dessert topping, especially for ice cream desserts. It is associated with fudge because of its rich and sweet flavor.

White Chocolate Fudge

White chocolate fudge is made with a combination of white chocolate, powdered sugar, vanilla and cream cheese. The cream cheese gives it the smooth and creamy texture. Like chocolate fudge, white chocolate fudge is often mixed with nuts, especially pecans. Peppermint or raspberry flavorings are also mixed with a white chocolate fudge.

Peanut Butter Fudge

A substantial amount of brown sugar and powdered sugar are mixed with peanut butter to make this sweet and creamy fudge. With peanut butter fudge, milk and butter are used to bind the ingredients. While you can add chopped peanuts to a peanut butter fudge recipe, it’s best not to add any other mix-ins or it will alter the taste and texture. You can make a chocolate peanut butter fudge by adding peanut butter to a chocolate fudge recipe.

Sugar Fudge

Sugar fudges are so named because different sugars are combined with spices, fruits or nuts to make a smooth and rich tasting fudge. Brown sugar and maple syrup are common sugar choices because they blend well with butter. Pecans, coconut, butterscotch, strawberries, candied cherries, cranberries and pumpkin are among the flavors used in sugar fudge.

References

• "Oh Fudge!: A Celebration of America's Favorite Candy"; Lee Edwards Benning
• "Chocolate Recipes Volume I: Chocolate Recipes, Chocolate Fudge and Gourmet Chocolate Recipes"; Jules Domingo
• "The Ultimate Candy Book: More Than 700 Quick and Easy, Soft and Chewy, Hard and Crunchy Sweets and Treats"; Bruce Weinstein