Creamy Vanilla Fudge Recipe

Fudge-making can be a daunting task for even the most seasoned bakers, but with the right recipe and techniques, you'll be on your way to creating delicious and creamy vanilla fudge in no time.

The key to making successful fudge is temperature control. To ensure that your fudge turns out smooth and creamy, it's essential to keep the thermometer submerged throughout the cooking process. Bring the mixture to a temperature of 116°C (240°F) on medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low once you've reached this point.

Next, combine all the ingredients in a deep saucepan, leaving enough room for the boiling fudge to bubble up during cooking. Be careful not to stir the mixture at this stage, as it can cause the butter and vanilla to separate from the rest of the ingredients.

Once you've added all the ingredients to the saucepan, line an 8x8 inch square tin with greaseproof paper to prepare for pouring in the fudge. When you start mixing the fudge, it may look a bit slimy and gross at first, but don't worry – this is just normal!

You can either beat the fudge by hand or use a stand mixer like I did (my trusty KitchenAid mixer was a lifesaver!). If the worst happens and your fudge turns out crumbly, you can either learn to love it as is or reheat it with a few tablespoons of cream and start again.

One important tip to keep in mind is not to stir the mixture until the temperature has dropped below 140°C (60°F). This will help prevent the sugar from crystallizing and ensure that your fudge turns out smooth and creamy. Make sure to also dissolve all the sugar before bringing the syrup to a boil, as this can cause grainy texture.

Once you've reached the desired consistency, stir in some vanilla and salt, then pour the mixture into an ungreased 10-inch square pan. Place it in the refrigerator and chill until set, which should take about three hours.

To finish off your creamy vanilla fudge, cut it into even pieces and prepare some Royal Icing according to the packet directions. You can also pipe set pieces of fudge with Royal Icing for a decorative touch. The range given in Sugar Baby is between 43°C-60°C (110°F-140°F), so be sure to check your thermometer regularly to ensure that you're within this range.

With these simple steps and tips, you'll be well on your way to creating delicious creamy vanilla fudge that's perfect for snacking or gift-giving. So go ahead, get creative, and indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of homemade fudge!

Creamy vanilla fudge recipe