There’s something magical about chocolate fudge that brings back memories of cozy winter evenings spent with family. As a child, I remember the excitement that filled the air whenever my grandmother would make her famous fudge. The rich aroma of melting chocolate would waft through the house, wrapping us in warmth and comfort. One day, feeling adventurous, I decided to add a twist to her classic recipe by incorporating a hint of sea salt and a splash of espresso. The result? A fudge that is not only indulgent but also sophisticated. Let me share this delightful recipe with you!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp espresso powder
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions

Begin by preparing your workspace. Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with a little butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This will ensure your fudge comes out perfectly.

In a medium saucepan, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter. Place the saucepan over low heat, stirring gently until the chocolate and butter are completely melted and the mixture is smooth. This may take a few minutes, so be patient and keep stirring to prevent burning.

Once the chocolate mixture is silky and glossy, remove it from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, espresso powder, and sea salt. If you’re feeling nutty, fold in the chopped walnuts at this stage for an added crunch.

Pour the luscious fudge mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. To add a touch of flair, sprinkle a little extra sea salt on top for a beautiful finish that will enhance the flavor.

Now, it’s time for some patience. Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for about an hour, then transfer it to the fridge for at least two hours to set fully. Once set, remove the fudge from the pan and cut it into bite-sized squares. The texture should be rich and creamy, melting delightfully in your mouth.

Serve these delectable fudge squares at your next gathering, or pack them up as a thoughtful gift for a friend. With each bite, you’ll be transported back to those cozy evenings, filled with laughter and love, just as I was. Enjoy your sweet creation!