Rich, nostalgic, and absolutely irresistible, Old Fashioned Black Walnut Fudge is a chocolate lover’s dream with a twist of earthy, bold black walnuts. This recipe takes you straight back to simpler times with its smooth texture and deep, satisfying flavor. Each bite marries creamy cocoa and crunchy, aromatic black walnuts, making it the perfect treat for holiday platters or cozy nights in. If you’ve never tried the unique depth that black walnuts bring to fudge, prepare to discover your new favorite candy!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Old Fashioned Black Walnut Fudge is in its simplicity—every ingredient matters, lending its own special note to the final result. If you have good-quality basics in your kitchen, you’re halfway there; let’s see what goes into this heartwarming treat.
- Granulated sugar (3 cups): Provides sweetness and gives the fudge its classic, smooth texture—make sure it’s fresh for the best results!
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (¾ cup): Gives the fudge its deep chocolatey base; sift for no lumps and the silkiest finish.
- Whole milk (1 cup): Adds richness and helps create that dreamy creamy consistency fudge is famous for.
- Salt (⅛ teaspoon): Just a pinch, but it brightens all the flavors and balances sweetness perfectly.
- Unsalted butter, cut into pieces (4 tablespoons): Stirred in at the end for a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth quality; butter makes everything better!
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses warmth and enhances both the chocolate and nuts—don’t skip it.
- Chopped black walnuts (1 cup): The star of Old Fashioned Black Walnut Fudge, these provide a complex, earthy crunch that lifts the fudge from classic to unforgettable.
How to Make Old Fashioned Black Walnut Fudge
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by greasing an 8×8-inch square pan. You can use a bit of butter or nonstick spray, but make sure to coat the sides and the bottom well to keep the fudge from sticking. Set this aside within easy reach—you’ll need it ready as soon as your fudge thickens up!
Step 2: Combine and Heat
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, blend together your granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, whole milk, and salt. Stir frequently over medium heat, making sure everything melts together into a uniform chocolate mixture. This step is all about patience: taking the time here means a smooth, velvety base.
Step 3: Boil Without Stirring
As soon as the mixture comes to a boil, it’s time to put down your spoon! Let the fudge cook undisturbed, avoiding any stirring, until it reaches the soft-ball stage—about 234–240°F if you have a candy thermometer. This takes 10–15 minutes. Skipping the urge to stir ensures the final fudge stays creamy instead of gritty.
Step 4: Add Butter and Vanilla—Then Wait
Once the right temperature is reached, remove the pot from the heat. Gently drop in your butter pieces and vanilla extract, but resist the temptation to stir! Let the mixture rest quietly for around 5 minutes, until the sides and bottom feel just warm. This pause sets up the fudge for the perfect texture.
Step 5: Beat Until Thick—Then Add Walnuts
Grab a sturdy wooden spoon and beat the mixture vigorously. This step takes elbow grease and about 5–8 minutes—keep going until it thickens, loses its glossy sheen, and starts holding shape. Quickly add your chopped black walnuts, folding them in just until evenly distributed.
Step 6: Spread and Set
Promptly pour the fudge into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Let the Old Fashioned Black Walnut Fudge set completely at room temperature. Once firm, cut it into small, delightful squares—get ready for rave reviews.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Black Walnut Fudge
Garnishes
Top each square of Old Fashioned Black Walnut Fudge with a sprinkle of chopped black walnuts or a light dusting of cocoa powder. For a festive look, you might even add a few chocolate shavings or a dusting of powdered sugar—presentation matters almost as much as taste!
Side Dishes
Pair this rich fudge with a hot cup of coffee, a cold glass of milk, or even serve alongside fresh fruit like strawberries for a touch of brightness. The fudge is so decadent that simple sides work best to keep every bite special.
Creative Ways to Present
Try wrapping individual squares in parchment paper and tying them with rustic string for homemade gifts. You can also pack assorted chunks in a decorative tin, or layer slices into parfaits with whipped cream for a show-stopping dessert. However you serve it, Old Fashioned Black Walnut Fudge always impresses!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature, where it will stay perfectly fresh for about a week. Make sure you separate layers with parchment to prevent sticking—if you can resist eating it all right away, that is!
Freezing
If you want to store fudge longer, you can freeze it! Wrap pieces in wax paper and place them in a zip-top freezer bag. Fudge will keep its taste and texture for up to two months in the freezer, making it a fantastic treat to stash away for a rainy day.
Reheating
While fudge is typically enjoyed at room temperature, if you like it softer, pop a piece in the microwave for just 5–10 seconds. Be careful—not too long, or you’ll melt it! That hint of warmth makes the chocolate and black walnut aroma even more intoxicating.
FAQs
Can I use regular walnuts instead of black walnuts?
Absolutely! While regular walnuts bring a milder crunch, black walnuts are what give Old Fashioned Black Walnut Fudge its incredible earthy flavor. If you can find them, definitely use black walnuts for the full experience.
What do I do if my fudge turns out grainy?
Grainy fudge is usually a result of stirring while the mixture boils or not letting it cool undisturbed. For next time, remember to put down your spoon once it starts boiling, and don’t stir again until it’s time to beat in the butter and vanilla.
Do I need a candy thermometer to make this recipe?
A candy thermometer makes things a lot easier, ensuring you reach the perfect soft-ball stage. If you don’t have one, you can drop a small spoonful of hot fudge into cold water; if it forms a soft, pliable ball, you’re ready!
Can I make Old Fashioned Black Walnut Fudge ahead of the holidays?
This fudge is ideal for making ahead. It keeps well at room temperature for a week and even longer when frozen, so go ahead and get a jump on your holiday treats.
Is Old Fashioned Black Walnut Fudge gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check that your cocoa powder and vanilla extract are certified gluten-free if allergies are a concern.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a sweet treat that’s steeped in tradition and flavor, give Old Fashioned Black Walnut Fudge a try. It’s the kind of recipe that sparks joy the moment you share it, whether as a thoughtful gift or a treat for yourself. Trust me—once you taste the rich chocolate and bold nuttiness, you’ll be hooked!
Print
Old Fashioned Black Walnut Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes (plus cooling time)
- Yield: 25 small squares
- Category: Dessert, Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
Indulge in the rich, old-fashioned goodness of Black Walnut Fudge with this easy homemade recipe. Creamy, chocolaty fudge studded with crunchy black walnuts is a classic treat that’s perfect for sharing or gifting.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup whole milk
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into pieces)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped black walnuts
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Grease an 8×8-inch square pan and set aside.
- Mix Ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and salt. Stir over medium heat until boiling.
- Boil Mixture: Boil until it reaches the soft-ball stage (234–240°F on a candy thermometer), approximately 10–15 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Add Butter and Vanilla: Add butter and vanilla without stirring. Let it cool for 5 minutes.
- Beat Mixture: Beat vigorously until thickened and losing its gloss, about 5–8 minutes. Stir in chopped black walnuts.
- Pour and Set: Pour fudge into the pan, smooth the top, and let it set at room temperature before cutting into squares.
Notes
- Do not stir while boiling to avoid crystallization.
- Black walnuts can be substituted with regular walnuts for a milder flavor.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 15 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
