If you’re anything like me, the aroma of homemade fudge brings back warm memories of cozy family gatherings and festive celebrations. I recently found myself craving that iconic See’s Candy fudge, but rather than heading to the store, I decided to whip up a Copycat Old-Fashioned See’s Candy Fudge Recipe right in my kitchen. With just a handful of simple ingredients, this rich and creamy treat melts in your mouth, delivering that nostalgic chocolate experience with every bite.
Perfect for holiday gifting or simply treating yourself, this fudge is incredibly easy to make and requires no fancy equipment. Imagine delighting your loved ones with smooth, decadent squares of fudge that rival the famous candies. Talk about a crowd-pleaser! So, let’s dive into this indulgent recipe that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and bring a touch of homemade happiness to your next gathering.
Why will you love this Copycat See’s Candy Fudge?
Irresistible Homemade Treat: This Copycat See’s Candy Fudge replicates that classic, creamy fudge flavor we all adore.
Quick & Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this decadent dessert in no time.
Perfect for Gifting: Ideal for holidays or special occasions, your friends and family will appreciate this thoughtful, homemade gift.
Taste of Nostalgia: Each bite transports you back to cherished memories of family gatherings and festivities.
Customizable Delights: Add your favorite nuts or extracts to make this fudge truly your own!
See’s Candy Fudge Ingredients
Indulge in this delicious homemade chocolate fudge experience with these key ingredients!
For the Fudge Base
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Ensures a rich chocolate flavor; Ghirardelli is highly recommended for optimal deliciousness.
- Butter (2 sticks or 16 tablespoons) – Adds creamy texture and depth, crucial for that indulgent taste; avoid margarine for best results.
- Granulated Sugar (4½ cups) – Acts as the primary sweetener, balancing flavors and crafting the perfect fudge texture.
- Evaporated Milk (12 oz. can) – Provides moisture and creaminess that makes this fudge melt-in-your-mouth; steer clear of sweetened condensed milk for this recipe.
For Texture & Flavor
- Marshmallow Creme (1 7oz. jar) – Ensures a soft and luscious fudge texture; brand-name is key for consistency and quality.
- Pure Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons) – Enhances the overall flavor complexity; always use pure extract for the best results.
Optional Add-Ins
- Walnuts or Pecans (2 cups) – Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; feel free to omit for nut allergies or personal preference.
Now, get ready to create something truly special with this Copycat See’s Candy Fudge!
How to Make Copycat See’s Candy Fudge
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Prepare the Pan: Line a 9×13 baking dish with foil, ensuring it’s smooth, then spray it generously with non-stick cooking spray. This keeps the fudge from sticking and makes clean-up easier!
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Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, softened butter, nuts (if using), marshmallow creme, and vanilla extract. Stir gently until everything is well incorporated and creamy.
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Cook Sugar Mixture: In a heavy-bottomed pot, add the granulated sugar and evaporated milk. Heat over high heat, stirring constantly until it reaches a rolling boil. After that, reduce to medium-high and continue stirring for precisely 9 minutes. Watch for a golden hue!
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Combine: Remove the boiling sugar mixture from heat and pour it over the chocolate mixture. Stir vigorously until everything is melted, combined, and has a beautiful glossy sheen.
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Set the Fudge: Pour the luscious mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it out evenly. Let it cool to room temperature, and then refrigerate until firm—ideally overnight for the best texture.
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Cut and Serve: Once set, use the foil to lift the fudge out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and cut into 1-inch cubes. Enjoy the velvety squares as they melt in your mouth!
Optional: Drizzle with additional melted chocolate before cutting for an extra touch of elegance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Making this Copycat See’s Candy Fudge ahead of time is an excellent way to save precious hours during holiday prep! You can prepare the fudge batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before you’re ready to serve. Simply mix and pour the fudge into the prepared baking dish, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy, just chill it overnight to ensure it sets perfectly. On serving day, cut your fudge into squares straight from the fridge for those dreamy, melt-in-your-mouth bites. By pre-prepping the fudge, you’ll have a delicious dessert waiting for your gatherings without the last-minute rush!
Expert Tips for Copycat See’s Candy Fudge
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Quality Chocolate: Choose a high-quality semi-sweet chocolate like Ghirardelli to ensure your Copycat See’s Candy Fudge has a rich flavor and creamy texture.
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Precise Timing: Stir the sugar mixture for exactly 9 minutes; excess cooking can lead to a grainy texture, so keep an eye on the clock!
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Room Temperature Butter: Using softened butter helps create a smoother and creamier fudge base, avoiding any lumps or uneven consistency.
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Chill Time: Don’t rush the chilling process! Refrigerate the fudge overnight for the best texture and flavor development before cutting into cubes.
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Avoid Substitutes: Stick to the specific ingredients listed, especially the marshmallow creme and evaporated milk, as substitutes can change the fudge’s final texture.
How to Store and Freeze Copycat See’s Candy Fudge
Room Temperature: Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep it in a cool, dry place to maintain its creamy texture.
Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate Copycat See’s Candy Fudge in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. This helps preserve its rich flavor and texture.
Freezer: Freeze the fudge for up to 3 months. Wrap pieces individually in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container for optimal preservation.
Reheating: If you prefer to enjoy it slightly warm, microwave a piece for about 10-15 seconds. Delight in the melty goodness that brings back fond memories!
See’s Candy Fudge Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor this fudge to your taste with these fun ideas!
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Nut Changes: Swap walnuts for pecans, almonds, or leave them out altogether for a nut-free treat!
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Chocolate Variety: Try using dark or milk chocolate chips for a different flavor experience. Each type adds its own unique twist to the classic fudge.
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Mint Twist: Fold in crushed peppermint candies for a refreshing mint chocolate fudge. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings!
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Fruit Infusion: Add a handful of dried cherries or cranberries for a chewy bite and a burst of contrasting sweetness in each piece.
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Spice It Up: Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or a dash of sea salt to enhance the flavor profile with a warm, spicy kick.
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Coconut Delight: Stir in shredded coconut for a tropical twist, giving the fudge an extra chewy texture that’s simply delightful!
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Caramel Swirls: Drizzle melted caramel sauce into the fudge for a rich, indulgent surprise in every bite. It’s a sweet contrast to the chocolate!
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Crushed Cookies: Incorporate crushed Oreos or Graham crackers into the mix for a crunchy texture that adds an exciting layer of flavor.
What to Serve with Copycat See’s Candy Fudge?
Indulging in rich, creamy chocolate treats deserves the perfect accompaniments to elevate your experience.
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Rich Coffee: The deep, robust flavors of a freshly brewed cup of coffee provide the ideal contrast to the sweetness of the fudge, enhancing its chocolatey notes.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool sensation of vanilla ice cream complements the fudge’s richness splendidly, creating a decadent contrast that tantalizes the taste buds.
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Chopped Fresh Fruits: Bright, juicy strawberries or tart raspberries can add a refreshing burst that balances the sweetness of the fudge, making each bite a delightful experience.
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Nutty Biscotti: Crispy, nutty biscotti provides a satisfying crunch that pairs wonderfully with the fudge’s creamy texture, perfect for dipping and enjoying together.
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Milk: A classic pairing! A cold glass of milk softens the richness of the fudge, allowing the flavors to flourish while providing a nostalgic touch.
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Mint Tea: The soothing aroma of mint tea refreshes the palate after each bite of fudge, making it an elegant way to cleanse your taste buds while enjoying this chocolaty indulgence.
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Dark Chocolate Wine: If you’re feeling adventurous, a smooth dark chocolate wine intensifies the fudge’s flavor profile, creating a luxurious chocolate experience that’s totally irresistible.
With these delightful options by your side, your Copycat See’s Candy Fudge experience will reach new heights of flavor and joy!
Copycat See’s Candy Fudge Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chocolate chips for my fudge?
Absolutely! When it comes to choosing chocolate chips, I highly recommend using high-quality semi-sweet chocolate, such as Ghirardelli. Look for chips that are glossy and rich in color, without any dull or white spots, as this indicates freshness. The better the chocolate, the richer and more delicious your Copycat See’s Candy Fudge will be!
What’s the best way to store leftover fudge?
To keep your fudge fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, refrigerate it for up to 2 weeks in the same type of container. Just make sure it’s cool before sealing! This helps the flavors to meld, ensuring a delightful treat every time you reach for a piece.
How can I freeze my fudge for later enjoyment?
The more the merrier! If you want to enjoy your fudge later, freeze it for up to 3 months. Here’s how you do it: First, wrap individual pieces of fudge in plastic wrap tightly. Then, place the wrapped pieces in an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the fudge at room temperature or in the fridge overnight. It’ll taste as fresh as the day you made it!
What if my fudge isn’t setting properly?
If your fudge is too soft, it may have not reached the right temperature during cooking. Make sure to cook the sugar and evaporated milk mixture for the precise 9 minutes; stirring constantly is essential to avoid burning. If it’s still too soft after chilling, you can try adding a little powdered sugar to thicken it up, or just enjoy it as a delicious fudge sauce over ice cream!
Can I make substitutions for any of the ingredients?
Very! Feel free to swap the walnuts with your favorite nuts or omit them entirely based on any allergy concerns. If you’re avoiding butter, you could experiment with coconut oil—though I recommend sticking to unsalted butter for that creamy richness. Just remember, changes can affect texture, so choose wisely!
Delicious Copycat Old-Fashioned See’s Candy Fudge Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Pan: Line a 9x13 baking dish with foil, then spray it generously with non-stick cooking spray.
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine semi-sweet chocolate chips, softened butter, nuts, marshmallow creme, and vanilla extract.
- Cook Sugar Mixture: In a pot, combine granulated sugar and evaporated milk. Heat, stirring constantly until it boils. Cook for 9 minutes.
- Combine: Remove from heat and pour over the chocolate mixture. Stir until melted and glossy.
- Set the Fudge: Pour into the baking dish, smooth it out, and refrigerate until firm, ideally overnight.
- Cut and Serve: Once set, lift the fudge out, cut into cubes, and enjoy.