By Dr. Leah Alexander | Published on December 18, 2023 | Last Updated on December 18, 2023
Brenda Gantt, a name renowned in the world of cooking, has become synonymous with delicious and comfort-filled Southern cuisine.
Among her many mouth-watering recipes, one that stands out is her Chocolate Fudge recipe. This indulgent treat, boasting a perfect blend of sweetness and rich cocoa flavor, has been making waves across various platforms including Instagram and TikTok.
The recipe involves simple ingredients like granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, whole milk, unsalted butter, and light corn, yielding a fudge that’s incredibly smooth and decadent.
Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned chef, Brenda Gantt’s Chocolate Fudge recipe is sure to add a touch of sweetness to your culinary repertoire
What is Brenda Gantt chocolate fudge?
Brenda Gantt chocolate fudge is a rich and indulgent dessert that has become famous for its smooth texture and intense cocoa flavor.
It is a classic Southern recipe created by Brenda Gantt, a renowned name in the culinary world known for her delicious comfort food dishes. The fudge is made with simple ingredients like sugar, cocoa powder, milk, butter, and corn syrup, making it a popular go-to recipe for many home cooks and professional chefs alike.
While the exact origins of fudge are unknown, it is believed to have originated in the United States during the late 19th century.
The first documented mention of fudge was in a letter written by Emelyn Battersby Hartridge, a student at Vassar College in New York, who wrote about her classmate’s cousin making fudge in 1892. However, it wasn’t until the late 19th and early 20th century that fudge became popular across the country as a homemade treat.
Why You’ll Love this Brenda Gantt chocolate fudge?
There are many reasons why you’ll fall in love with Brenda Gantt’s chocolate fudge. Firstly, it is incredibly easy to make and requires only a handful of ingredients that are easily available in most kitchens.
Secondly, the recipe yields a fudge that is incredibly smooth and rich, making it a perfect indulgent treat for any occasion. The addition of corn syrup also helps to prevent the sugar from crystallizing, resulting in a perfectly smooth texture.
Moreover, Brenda Gantt’s chocolate fudge is versatile and can be customized with different toppings and add-ins. You can add nuts, dried fruits, or even peanut butter for an extra layer of flavor and crunch. It is also a great recipe to make with kids, as they can help with measuring and mixing the ingredients.
Lastly, this fudge is a perfect gift for friends and family, as it can be easily packaged and stored for later enjoyment.
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The Ingredients
- Quality Dark Chocolate Chips: These are the heart of any chocolate fudge recipe. The quality of the chocolate chips can greatly influence the flavor and texture of the fudge. High-quality dark chocolate chips will offer a richer, deeper chocolate flavor, and they often melt more smoothly than lower-quality alternatives.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This ingredient is crucial for the creamy, smooth texture of the fudge. It also adds sweetness to balance out the richness of the dark chocolate. The condensed milk acts as a binding agent that helps hold all the other ingredients together.
- Unsalted Butter: Butter adds a rich, creamy taste to the fudge and helps create a soft, velvety texture. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt in the recipe.
- Granulated Sugar: Sugar is necessary to sweeten the fudge. It also plays a role in achieving the correct texture. As it melts and caramelizes, it helps to create that classic, slightly grainy texture that sets fudge apart from other types of candy.
- Salt: A hint of salt is essential in sweet recipes to balance flavors. It enhances the sweetness and the depth of the chocolate flavor, preventing the fudge from tasting too flat or overly sweet.
- Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract is used to add an extra layer of flavor to the fudge. It complements the chocolate and brings out its richness without overpowering it.
Step by Step Instructions
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Prepare the Pan:
- Begin by lining an 8×8 inch square pan with parchment paper. Leave a few inches of overhang on each side; this will make it easier to remove the fudge later.
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Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Whisk to remove any lumps.
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Add Condensed Milk:
- Add the condensed milk and stir until the mixture is well combined.
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Heat and Stir:
- Place the saucepan on medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly.
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Incorporate Butter and Chocolate Chips:
- Once the mixture is boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and add in the butter and chocolate chips. Stir until everything is completely melted and combined into a smooth mixture.
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Add Vanilla Extract:
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
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Pour into Prepared Pan:
- Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly.
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Optional Toppings:
- For an extra touch, add your desired toppings or mix-ins on top of the fudge. Gently press them in with a spatula.
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Cool at Room Temperature:
- Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for 2-3 hours until it is firm.
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Cut and Enjoy:
- Once the fudge has cooled, lift the parchment paper to remove the fudge from the pan and place it on a cutting board.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the fudge into small squares, and enjoy!
Notes
- For a softer fudge, use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate.
- Make sure to use high-quality ingredients for the best results.
- If you want to get creative, try adding different toppings such as crushed cookies, sea salt, or even bacon for a salty-sweet twist.
Nutrition Information
How to store Brenda Gantt chocolate fudge?
Brenda Gantt chocolate fudge can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. It is best to separate each layer with parchment paper to prevent the fudge from sticking together.
Alternatively, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks. Before serving, allow the fudge to come to room temperature for 15-20 minutes. You can also freeze the fudge for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Variations
- Peanut Butter Fudge: Swirl in ½ cup of creamy peanut butter into the fudge mixture before pouring it into the pan.
- Rocky Road Fudge: Add ½ cup each of chopped nuts and mini marshmallows to the fudge mixture before pouring it into the pan. You can also sprinkle extra toppings on top for added texture.
- White Chocolate Fudge: Substitute white chocolate chips for the dark chocolate chips and add in 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a festive twist.
- Mint Chocolate Fudge: Add ½ cup of crushed mint candies to the fudge mixture before pouring it into the pan. You can also top it with extra crushed candies for added flavor.
Brenda Gantt’s Chocolate Fudge Recipe
Equipment
- Baking pan
- mixing cups
- mixing spoons
Ingredients
- 4 cups quality dark chocolate chips
- 2 cans 28 ounces of sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 2 pinches of salt
- 2 tsp of vanilla extract
Instructions
- Line an 8×8 inch square pan with parchment paper, ensuring there’s an overhang for later removal.
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, cocoa powder, salt, and condensed milk. Heat and bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to medium-low heat.
- Add butter and chocolate chips to the saucepan, stirring until the mixture becomes smooth and well combined. Don’t forget to stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. If desired, add toppings and gently press them in. Allow the fudge to cool for 2-3 hours at room temperature.
- Once the fudge has thoroughly cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift it from the pan. Use a sharp knife to cut it into squares, and it’s ready to be enjoyed!
Notes
- For a softer fudge, use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate.
- Make sure to use high-quality ingredients for the best results.
- If you want to get creative, try adding different toppings such as crushed cookies, sea salt, or even bacon for a salty-sweet twist.
FAQs
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to this fudge recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is quite versatile. You can add chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even cookie pieces for an added crunch or flavor. Just be sure to fold them in at the end before you pour the fudge into the pan to set.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate if you prefer a softer and sweeter fudge. Just keep in mind that it may not set as firmly as dark chocolate fudge.
How long will this fudge last?
Properly stored, this fudge should last for up to 2 weeks at room temperature, 4 weeks in the refrigerator, and up to 3 months in the freezer.
I don’t have parchment paper, can I use foil instead?
Yes, you can use foil as a substitute for parchment paper. Just make sure to lightly grease the foil with butter or cooking spray before pouring in the fudge mixture. This will prevent it from sticking once it’s set.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, Brenda Gantt’s chocolate fudge is a simple yet indulgent dessert that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many. With its rich cocoa flavor, smooth texture, and customizable options, it is no wonder why this recipe has become a fan favorite.
So next time you’re craving something sweet, give this recipe a try and experience the joy of savoring a piece of Brenda Gantt’s famous chocolate fudge. Experience the joy of making this delicious dessert and impress your friends and family with your newfound baking skills!
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Dr. Leah Alexander, M.D., is a board-certified Pediatrician in New Jersey and has been working at Elizabeth Pediatric Group of New Jersey since 2000.
She also has a passion for culinary arts that extends beyond the medical realm. After completing culinary school at the French Culinary Institute, she started Global Palate, LLC, a catering firm, in 2007. She ran her own six-year-old catering company and served small group parties as an owner and executive chef.
