Cocoa powder is made from roasted cocoa beans, which are ground into a fine powder after the fat (cocoa butter) is removed. It is rich in flavor and can be unsweetened or sweetened, with unsweetened cocoa powder being the most common choice for baking and cooking. Its deep chocolate flavor makes it an ideal ingredient for various desserts, especially fudge.

2 cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup whole milk
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, sliced and softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: 1 cup of add-ins (chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or mini candies)

Prepare Your Pan: Grease an 8-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, mix the sugar and cocoa powder. Pour in the milk and stir until well combined.

Heat the Mixture: Set the heat to medium-high and stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan.

Simmer: Allow the mixture to simmer without stirring until it reaches 238°F (114°C). This should take about 10 minutes. If you don’t have a candy thermometer, you can drop a small amount of the mixture into cold water; it should form a soft ball.

Cool Down: Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool to around 110°F (43°C) without stirring. This cooling period is crucial for achieving the right texture.

Add Butter and Vanilla: Once cooled, add the butter and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture with a wooden spoon until well incorporated and it begins to lose its glossy sheen.

Transfer to Pan: Pour the fudge into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Let it cool at room temperature or refrigerate until set.

Cut and Enjoy: Once set, cut the fudge into squares and enjoy your homemade cocoa powder fudge!

Use a Candy Thermometer: For the best results, a candy thermometer is recommended to ensure the fudge reaches the correct temperature without overcooking.
Avoid Stirring During Cooling: Stirring the fudge while it cools can lead to crystallization, affecting the texture.
Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to customize your fudge by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or other candies during the mixing stage for added flavor and texture.

To keep your fudge fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the fudge. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top freezer bag, where they can last for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Cocoa powder fudge is a classic treat that is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients and some careful preparation, you can create a rich, creamy fudge that will impress family and friends. Whether enjoyed during the holidays or as an everyday snack, this fudge recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in the delightful world of cocoa powder fudge!