Chocolate Walnut Fudge
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I love making Chocolate Walnut Fudge because it's such a delightful combination of rich chocolate and crunchy walnuts. Each time I prepare it, the aroma of melting chocolate fills my kitchen, and I can't resist the temptation to sneak a taste. This recipe is incredibly simple, requiring just a few ingredients, and I'm always amazed at how quickly it comes together. Whether I’m indulging myself or gifting a batch to friends, this fudge never fails to impress with its creamy texture and decadent flavor.
When I first decided to make Chocolate Walnut Fudge, I wanted something that would remind me of the classic treat my grandmother made during the holidays. I remember experimenting with different nut-to-chocolate ratios until I found the perfect balance. The combination of toasted walnuts adds a delightful crunch and depth of flavor that complements the rich chocolate.
One tip I discovered along the way is to let the fudge cool at room temperature before cutting it into squares. This ensures that it sets properly and maintains a fudge-like consistency rather than becoming too soft. Trust me; it's worth the wait!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Luxuriously smooth texture combined with crunchy walnuts
- Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
- Perfect as a homemade gift or a tasty treat for yourself
Understanding Ingredients
The key to a truly luxurious Chocolate Walnut Fudge is the quality of the chocolate you use. Semi-sweet chocolate chips are ideal because they melt beautifully and provide a balanced sweetness that complements the sweetness of condensed milk. If you prefer a darker flavor, you can substitute half of the chocolate with dark chocolate chips. Just be cautious with the overall sweetness of your fudge, as using too much dark chocolate may require adjustments to the condensed milk.
Chopped walnuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the smooth fudge. You can toast the walnuts lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes to enhance their flavor and give the fudge a roasted, aromatic quality. If you have nut allergies or simply want to try different flavors, feel free to experiment with other nuts like pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds.
Perfecting the Technique
When melting the chocolate and sweetened condensed milk, keep the heat at medium and stir constantly to avoid scorching. The mixture should become glossy and smooth; if it’s grainy or separating, it might be overheating. Should this occur, take it off the heat and allow it to cool slightly before stirring again. Additionally, a heavy-bottomed saucepan is preferable as it distributes heat evenly, preventing hot spots that could burn the chocolate.
Patience is crucial while cooling the fudge. Allow it to sit at room temperature for at least 2 hours, or until firm to the touch. If you're in a hurry, you can place it in the refrigerator for about 30-45 minutes. However, be careful not to leave it too long in the fridge as it can become too hard, making the cutting process challenging. Ensure you line the baking dish with parchment paper before pouring in the fudge for easy removal.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
Chocolate Walnut Fudge Ingredients
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- Pinch of salt
Mix all the ingredients until well combined for the best texture.
Instructions
Instructions:
Melt the Chocolate
In a medium saucepan, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir over medium heat until melted and smooth.
Add Flavor and Nuts
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, chopped walnuts, and a pinch of salt, mixing well to combine.
Set the Fudge
Pour the mixture into a greased square baking dish. Spread it evenly and smooth the top with a spatula.
Cool and Cut
Let the fudge cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours until set. Once firm, cut into squares and enjoy!
Store leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature.
Pro Tips
- Make sure not to overheat the chocolate when melting, as it can seize up. Stir continuously for best results.
Storage Tips
Chocolate Walnut Fudge can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a particularly warm climate, it's best to keep it in the refrigerator to prevent it from becoming too soft. You can also freeze the fudge for up to three months. Just cut it into squares, layer them with parchment paper, and place them in a freezer-safe container. To thaw, simply leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
Make sure to label your container with the date it was made to help keep track of freshness. If you notice that the fudge has developed a slight surface bloom, don't worry—this is just the chocolate fat rising to the surface, and it won't affect the taste. A little warmth can smooth this out.
Serving Suggestions
For a lovely presentation, you can dust the cooled fudge with a light sprinkle of sea salt or cocoa powder before cutting. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also balances the flavors beautifully. Pair your fudge with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce for an indulgent dessert experience.
Consider using the fudge as a filling in baked goods like brownies or cookies. Just chop it into small pieces and mix it into your batter before baking for an extra chocolaty surprise. Alternatively, you can create a decadent sundae by topping it with whipped cream and fresh fruits like berries or bananas to cut through the richness.
Questions About Recipes
→ How do I store Chocolate Walnut Fudge?
Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, using milk chocolate will give a sweeter, creamier fudge. Adjust the sweetness accordingly.
→ Can I add other nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or your favorite nuts.
→ How can I make the fudge more intense in chocolate flavor?
You can use a mix of dark chocolate and semi-sweet chocolate chips for a richer taste.
Chocolate Walnut Fudge
I love making Chocolate Walnut Fudge because it's such a delightful combination of rich chocolate and crunchy walnuts. Each time I prepare it, the aroma of melting chocolate fills my kitchen, and I can't resist the temptation to sneak a taste. This recipe is incredibly simple, requiring just a few ingredients, and I'm always amazed at how quickly it comes together. Whether I’m indulging myself or gifting a batch to friends, this fudge never fails to impress with its creamy texture and decadent flavor.
What You'll Need
Chocolate Walnut Fudge Ingredients
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- Pinch of salt
How-To Steps
In a medium saucepan, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir over medium heat until melted and smooth.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, chopped walnuts, and a pinch of salt, mixing well to combine.
Pour the mixture into a greased square baking dish. Spread it evenly and smooth the top with a spatula.
Let the fudge cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours until set. Once firm, cut into squares and enjoy!
Extra Tips
- Make sure not to overheat the chocolate when melting, as it can seize up. Stir continuously for best results.
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