Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup comfit candy, chopped
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Special equipment needed:
- Candy thermometer
- 8-inch square baking dish
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper and set aside.
2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, heavy cream, butter, corn syrup, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Insert a candy thermometer and cook until the temperature reaches 238°F (soft-ball stage).
4. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and chopped comfit candy.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and let it cool to room temperature.
6. Once the fudge has cooled, melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave.
7. Pour the melted chocolate over the fudge and spread it evenly with a spatula.
8. Sprinkle chopped nuts over the top of the chocolate (optional).
9. Chill the fudge in the refrigerator until the chocolate has hardened.
10. Once the chocolate has hardened, remove the fudge from the baking dish and cut it into small squares.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Soft-ball stage (238°F)
Serving size:
- 16 squares
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 36mg
- Sodium: 58mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 35g
- Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Light corn syrup can be substituted with honey or agave nectar.
- Semisweet chocolate chips can be substituted with dark chocolate or milk chocolate.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of peanut butter to the fudge mixture for a chocolate-peanut butter flavor.
- Replace the comfit candy with chopped dried fruit or nuts for a different texture and flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the fudge reaches the correct temperature.
- Stir the fudge mixture constantly to prevent burning.
- Let the fudge cool to room temperature before pouring the melted chocolate on top.
- Chill the fudge in the refrigerator to speed up the hardening process.
Storage instructions:
- Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
- Serve the fudge at room temperature.
Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the fudge squares on a decorative platter or in a gift box.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle chopped nuts or sea salt on top of the chocolate for added flavor and texture.
Pairings:
- Serve the fudge with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
- Fresh fruit or a cheese plate.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the fudge doesn't harden, it may not have reached the correct temperature. Reheat the mixture and try again.
Food safety advice:
- Use a clean candy thermometer and utensils to prevent contamination.
Food history:
- Fudge was first made in the late 19th century in the United States.
Flavor profiles:
- Sweet, creamy, and chocolatey with a crunchy texture from the comfit candy.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the fudge as a dessert or give it as a gift.
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