Description
Rocky Road Fudge
Description:
This Rocky Road Fudge is a holiday favorite!
Packed with festive flavors of chocolate, marshmallows, and crunchy nuts, it’s the perfect sweet addition to your celebrations. Ready to spread some holiday cheer?
Ingredients:
3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
14 oz sweetened condensed milk
2 tbsp salted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups mini marshmallows
1 cup mixed nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds)
Instructions:
Melt chocolate, condensed milk, and butter together on low heat. Stir until smooth.
Add vanilla, marshmallows, and mixed nuts. Mix well.
Spread into a dish, refrigerate for 2 hours, and cut into festive squares.
#HolidayFudge
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect fudge every time. First, line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides for easy removal. In a medium saucepan, combine the 3 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips, the 14 oz can of sweetened condensed milk, and the 2 tbsp of salted butter. Cook over the lowest possible heat, stirring constantly with a silicone spatula, until the mixture is completely smooth and glossy. This should take about 5-7 minutes; do not let it boil. Immediately remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the 1 tsp of vanilla extract. Allow the mixture to cool for 5 minutes; this prevents the marshmallows from melting when added. Gently fold in the 2 cups of mini marshmallows and 1 cup of mixed nuts until evenly distributed. Transfer the thick mixture to your prepared pan. Use the spatula or your hands (lightly greased) to press it into an even layer. Refrigerate, uncovered, for at least 2 hours until completely firm.
Serving Suggestions
This fudge is versatile for any holiday gathering. For a beautiful presentation, arrange the squares on a festive platter dusted with powdered sugar or cocoa powder. Package individual pieces in small cellophane bags tied with ribbon for heartfelt homemade gifts. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee or a glass of cold milk. For a dessert board, serve it alongside other holiday cookies, fresh berries, and a selection of cheeses.
How-to Summary
In short: Melt chocolate, condensed milk, and butter gently. Cool slightly, then fold in vanilla, marshmallows, and nuts. Press into a lined pan and chill until firm before cutting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet? Yes, but the fudge will be much sweeter. For best results, use a high-quality chocolate bar chopped up instead of chips for a smoother melt.
My fudge is too soft. What went wrong? This is often due to insufficient chilling time. Ensure it chills for a full 2 hours minimum. Also, confirm you used sweetened condensed milk, not evaporated milk.
How long does this fudge keep? Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it stays fresh for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Can I make this nut-free? Absolutely. Simply omit the nuts and add an extra 1/2 cup of mini marshmallows or substitute with crushed pretzels for a salty crunch.
Why did my marshmallows melt into the fudge? The chocolate mixture was too hot when you added them. Letting it cool for 5 minutes after removing from heat is crucial to keep the marshmallows intact.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- High Heat: Melting the chocolate over too high heat will cause it to seize or burn. Always use low heat.
- Skipping the Parchment Paper: This makes removing and cutting the fudge incredibly difficult.
- Overmixing After Adding Marshmallows: Stir gently just to combine; vigorous stirring can tear the marshmallows.
- Cutting Before Fully Set: Impatience leads to messy squares. Wait the full 2 hours for clean cuts.
Conclusion
This Rocky Road Fudge is more than just a treat; it’s a simple, joyful project that yields delicious results. With its irresistible combination of chocolate, marshmallow, and crunch, it’s guaranteed to become a cherished part of your holiday tradition. By following this enhanced guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create perfect, gift-worthy fudge that spreads cheer with every bite. Happy holidays and happy baking!
