Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup pitted prunes, chopped
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Special equipment needed:
- 8x8 inch square baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Candy thermometer
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Line the baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped prunes and walnuts.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and turns light brown (about 10-12 minutes).
4. Pour the condensed milk mixture over the prune and walnut mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
6. In a small saucepan, heat the chocolate chips and heavy cream over low heat, stirring constantly, until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
7. Pour the chocolate mixture over the fudge mixture and spread it evenly with a spatula.
8. Chill the fudge in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
9. Once the fudge is firm, use the parchment paper to lift it out of the pan and onto a cutting board.
10. Cut the fudge into small squares and serve.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Temperature:
Cooking temperature: Medium heat
Chilling temperature: Refrigerator temperature
Serving size:
Makes 16-20 squares
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 250
Total fat: 15g
Saturated fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 70mg
Total carbohydrates: 28g
Dietary fiber: 2g
Sugars: 23g
Protein: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of prunes, you can use dried figs or dates.
- Instead of walnuts, you can use pecans or almonds.
- Instead of semisweet chocolate chips, you can use dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips.
- Instead of heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or whole milk.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup shredded coconut to the fudge mixture for a tropical twist.
- Replace the walnuts with peanuts for a classic chocolate and peanut butter flavor.
- Add 1/4 cup bourbon or rum to the condensed milk mixture for an adult version of the fudge.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure that the condensed milk mixture reaches the correct temperature.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the fudge into squares.
- Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Storage instructions:
Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Reheating instructions:
The fudge does not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the fudge squares on a platter and dust them with cocoa powder.
Garnishes:
Top each fudge square with a walnut half or a prune slice.
Pairings:
Serve the fudge with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate.
Suggested side dishes:
The fudge is a dessert and does not require any side dishes.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the fudge is too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for a longer time.
- If the fudge is too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cutting it.
Food safety advice:
- Use clean utensils and equipment when making the fudge.
- Store the fudge in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.
Food history:
Fudge is a type of candy that originated in the United States in the late 19th century. It is made by combining sugar, butter, milk, and flavorings and cooking the mixture to a soft ball stage. Chocolate fudge is a popular variation of the candy.
Flavor profiles:
The fudge has a rich chocolate flavor with a hint of sweetness from the prunes and a nutty crunch from the walnuts.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the fudge as a dessert at a dinner party or give it as a gift during the holiday season.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A