I love preparing this easy old fashioned fudge. Combining 2 cups granulated sugar with 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, whole milk and unsalted butter along with a teaspoon of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt creates a classic treat reminiscent of generations past. Every batch is a nostalgic celebration of simple ingredients.

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I’ve been meaning to share this classic Hershey’s Chocolate Fudge recipe that my grandma used to make and I finally decided to give it a whirl. It all started when I discovered an old note on the side of a Hershey’s cocoa container that hinted at this sugar fudge recipe, and I just had to try it out.

All you need is 2 cups granulated sugar, 1/2 cup unsweetened Hershey’s cocoa powder and 1/2 cup whole milk along with a bit of unsalted butter, a teaspoon of vanilla extract and just a pinch of salt. The result is a rich, creamy fudge made with cocoa that is incredibly easy to make.

I love how its nostalgic taste reminds me of simpler times while also feeling fresh and exciting. Trust me, if you’re a fan of old fashioned fudge, this Hershey Fudge is definitely worth trying out.

Enjoy the process and the sweet reward!

Why I Like this Recipe

I love how simple this recipe is – it only takes a few ingredients and the steps are easy enough for even a beginner like me to follow.

I really dig the nostalgic feel, it reminds me so much of the old school fudge my grandma used to make when I was a kid.

I appreciate how rich and chocolaty it tastes; every bite gives me that perfect mix of sweetness and cocoa flavor that just hits the spot.

I also like that it’s a versatile treat, great for any holiday or even when I just want to whip up something special for myself or friends.

Ingredients

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Granulated sugar gives its sweet taste and bulk but is loaded with carbohydrates.
Hershey’s cocoa powder adds rich chocolate flavor and some antioxidants, though not much fiber.
Whole milk makes the fudge creamy offering proteins and fats, though it isnt low fat.
Unsalted butter gives smooth texture and flavor but adds extra saturated fat to this treat.
Vanilla extract enhances overall flavor with its natural aroma and a subtle richness.
A pinch of salt boosts the fudge taste balancing the sweetness and chocolate depth.

Ingredient Quantities

2 cups granulated sugar

1/2 cup unsweetened Hershey’s cocoa powder

1/2 cup whole milk

1/2 cup unsalted butter

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

A pinch of salt

How to Make this

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1. First, grease an 8-inch square pan and measure out all your ingredients.

2. In a heavy saucepan, mix together 2 cups granulated sugar, 1/2 cup unsweetened Hershey’s cocoa powder, 1/2 cup whole milk, 1/2 cup unsalted butter, and a pinch of salt.

3. Place the pan on medium heat and stir constantly until the butter melts completely.

4. Bring the mixture to a steady boil, then let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Keep stirring so it doesn’t burn.

5. After simmering, remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

6. Immediately pour the fudge mix into the prepared pan, making sure to spread it evenly.

7. Let the fudge sit at room temperature until it cools down completely, then pop it in the refrigerator for a couple of hours to firm up.

8. Once set, cut into squares and enjoy your homemade Hershey’s Chocolate Fudge!

Equipment Needed

1. 8-inch square pan
2. Heavy saucepan
3. Measuring cups
4. Measuring spoons
5. Stirring spoon
6. Stove
7. Refrigerator
8. Knife and cutting board for cutting the fudge into squares

FAQ

Q: Can I substitute whole milk with another type of milk?

Yes you can, but using low fat or skim milk might change the fudges texture and flavor a bit.

Q: Do I need to use unsweetened cocoa powder?

It's recommended. Using sweetened cocoa may add extra sugar and mess with the balance of flavors.

Q: How long should I let the fudge cool before cutting it into pieces?

The fudge should cool at room temp for about 20-30 minutes. If you're in a hurry, you can put it in the fridge but keep an eye on its texture.

Q: Can I add extra ingredients like nuts or dried fruits?

Sure you can add some chopped nuts or dried fruits. Just stir them in gently once the fudge is off the heat.

Q: What kind of pan should I use for this fudge?

A standard 8×8 inch pan works fine. Just line it with parchment paper to make sure it doesnt stick.

Hershey’s Chocolate Fudge Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Swap out the granulated sugar with packed brown sugar (use about 2 cups) to add a bit of a molasses flavor.
If you cant find unsweetened Hershey’s cocoa powder, regular unsweetened cocoa powder works just fine.
You can use heavy cream or even almond milk instead of whole milk if you’re looking for a creamier or non-dairy option.
Replace unsalted butter with margarine in equal amounts, though it might change the richness slightly.
If you dont have vanilla extract, a small dash of almond extract can give a unique twist to the fudge.

Pro Tips

1. Make sure you stir the mix constantly while it’s on medium heat so it dont stick or burn. Keeping a heavy bottom pan helps a lot with that.
2. Try to use room temp ingredients like the butter and milk because if they are too cold the fudge can come out grainy sometimes.
3. Once you take the pan off the heat, quickly add the vanilla and stir really fast before pouring it into the greased pan. This helps keep the texture smooth.
4. Let the fudge cool completely at room temp before poppin it in the fridge to set. This waiting game is worth it for that perfect cut.

Hershey's Chocolate Fudge Recipe

Recipe by Tina Bueller

0.0 from 0 votes

Servings

servings

Calories

222

kcal

Equipment: 1. 8-inch square pan
2. Heavy saucepan
3. Measuring cups
4. Measuring spoons
5. Stirring spoon
6. Stove
7. Refrigerator
8. Knife and cutting board for cutting the fudge into squares

Ingredients

2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened Hershey's cocoa powder
1/2 cup whole milk
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Directions

First, grease an 8-inch square pan and measure out all your ingredients.
In a heavy saucepan, mix together 2 cups granulated sugar, 1/2 cup unsweetened Hershey's cocoa powder, 1/2 cup whole milk, 1/2 cup unsalted butter, and a pinch of salt.
Place the pan on medium heat and stir constantly until the butter melts completely.
Bring the mixture to a steady boil, then let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Keep stirring so it doesn't burn.
After simmering, remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Immediately pour the fudge mix into the prepared pan, making sure to spread it evenly.
Let the fudge sit at room temperature until it cools down completely, then pop it in the refrigerator for a couple of hours to firm up.
Once set, cut into squares and enjoy your homemade Hershey's Chocolate Fudge!

Notes

Below you’ll find my best estimate of this recipe’s nutrition facts. Treat the numbers as a guide rather than a rule—great food should nourish both body and spirit. Figures are approximate, and the website owner assumes no liability for any inaccuracies in this recipe.