Homemade Vanilla Fudge

Indulge in the creamy decadence of homemade vanilla fudge with this easy-to-follow recipe that delivers perfect results every time. Made from simple pantry staples like granulated sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and a touch of fragrant vanilla extract, this classic treat combines nostalgia with rich, buttery flavor. The recipe walks you through achieving the ideal "soft-ball" stage for that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture, using just a handful of ingredients and a candy thermometer to ensure precision. Whether you're creating sweet gifts, festive desserts, or a luxurious snack for yourself, this irresistible vanilla fudge is perfect for any occasion. With no baking required and a smooth finish that cuts beautifully into bite-sized squares, this timeless recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Store it in an airtight container for a week of indulgence—or longer if you refrigerate!

Nutriscore Rating: 36/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 25

Ingredients

• 400 grams Granulated sugar
• 100 grams Unsalted butter
• 397 grams Sweetened condensed milk
• 120 milliliters Whole milk
• 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract
• 0.25 teaspoons Fine sea salt

Directions

Step 1

Grease and line an 8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.

Step 2

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk.

Step 3

Place the saucepan over medium-low heat and stir continuously with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula until the sugar dissolves and the butter melts completely.

Step 4

Increase the heat to medium, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Continue stirring to prevent it from sticking or burning.

Step 5

Reduce the heat to low and attach a candy thermometer to the saucepan. Allow the mixture to simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until it reaches 115°C (240°F) (the 'soft-ball' stage). This process may take around 30–35 minutes.

Step 6

Once the correct temperature is reached, remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool slightly for about 5 minutes.

Step 7

Add the vanilla extract and fine sea salt to the mixture. Using a hand whisk or a wooden spoon, beat the fudge mixture vigorously until it thickens and loses its glossy sheen. This should take about 5–8 minutes.

Step 8

Quickly pour the fudge into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly using a spatula.

Step 9

Let the fudge cool at room temperature until it is set, which may take 2–3 hours. For faster setting, you can refrigerate it for about 1 hour.

Step 10

Once set, use the parchment overhang to lift the fudge from the pan. Cut it into 1-inch squares to serve.

Step 11

Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1030.4 grams (1030.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3626

Total Fat 124.20g	159%
Saturated Fat 74.10g	370%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.50g
Cholesterol 371mg	124%
Sodium 1051mg	46%
Total Carbohydrate 622.80g	226%
Dietary Fiber 0.00g	0%
Total Sugars 623.00g
Protein 36.20g	72%

Vitamin D 86IU	431%
Calcium 1302mg	100%
Iron 1mg	4%
Potassium 1698mg	36%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 29.8%

Protein: 3.9%

Carbs: 66.4%