This Hershey’s Cocoa Fudge recipe is perfect for holidays, special occasions, or just when you need a comforting chocolate fix. Enjoy the rich, classic taste of homemade fudge!

Hershey’s Cocoa Fudge
Hershey’s Cocoa Fudge is a classic, rich, and indulgent treat that combines the deep, dark flavor of Hershey’s unsweetened cocoa with the creamy sweetness of sugar and milk. This homemade fudge is perfect for satisfying chocolate cravings and makes a great gift or party treat. Here’s how to create this timeless dessert:
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup Hershey’s unsweetened cocoa
- 3 cups sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan:
- Line an 8-inch square baking dish or pan with foil, allowing the foil to hang over the sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the foil with butter.
- Cook the Mixture:
- In a medium heavy saucepan, combine the cocoa, sugar, salt, and milk. Stir constantly over medium heat until the mixture comes to a boil, which should take about five minutes.
- Once boiling, continue to cook without stirring until the mixture reaches 234°F on a candy thermometer or forms a soft ball when dropped into cold water.
- Cool the Mixture:
- Remove the pan from heat and place it in a sink filled with at least two inches of cold water. Add the butter and vanilla extract but do not stir. Let the mixture cool in the cold water until it reaches room temperature.
- Beat the Fudge:
- Once the mixture is at room temperature, remove the pan from the cold water. Using a wooden spoon, mix to incorporate the melted butter and vanilla. Beat the mixture until it loses its shiny, glossy appearance and takes on a satiny sheen. This may take some time, so be patient.
- Add Nuts and Set:
- If using, stir in the chopped nuts. Immediately spread the fudge into the prepared dish, smoothing it out evenly.
- Allow the fudge to sit for at least an hour before cutting it into pieces.
- Store the Fudge:
- Store the cut fudge in a candy tin or an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Description and Tips
Hershey’s Cocoa Fudge is an old-fashioned treat that brings back memories of simpler times. Its rich, chocolatey flavor and smooth, creamy texture make it a favorite among chocolate lovers. The process of making this fudge requires patience, especially when it comes to beating the mixture until it loses its gloss, but the result is worth the effort.
- Consistency is Key: Be sure to bring the mixture to exactly 234°F to achieve the perfect consistency. Using a candy thermometer is highly recommended.
- Patience with Cooling: Letting the fudge mixture cool in cold water without stirring is crucial for the right texture. Stirring too soon can result in grainy fudge.
- Optional Add-ins: While nuts are optional, they add a delightful crunch and additional flavor. You can also experiment with other mix-ins like dried fruits or marshmallows.
- Storage: Proper storage in an airtight container ensures that the fudge remains fresh and doesn’t dry out.
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