Opera Fudge

Opera Fudge is an exquisitely smooth and creamy confection that embodies old-fashioned indulgence, perfect for holidays or special occasions. This homemade candy features a luscious vanilla fudge center, expertly crafted by heating granulated sugar, heavy cream, and butter to soft-ball stage and then vigorously beating it to velvety perfection. The fudge is then coated in a glossy layer of melted dark or milk chocolate, with an optional touch of vegetable shortening for a flawlessly smooth finish. Ideal for gifting, sharing, or treating yourself, these bite-sized sweets are a delightful combination of rich chocolate and melt-in-your-mouth fudge. With just a handful of pantry staples and a touch of patience, you can master this timeless candy recipe that’s as stunning to look at as it is to taste.

Nutriscore Rating: 34/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 24

Ingredients

• 2 cups Granulated sugar
• 0.75 cup Heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Light corn syrup
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 12 ounces Dark or milk chocolate
• 1 teaspoon Vegetable shortening

Directions

Step 1

Line an 8x8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal, and lightly grease the paper with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2

In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, heavy cream, light corn syrup, and unsalted butter.

Step 3

Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring gently until the sugar dissolves and the butter melts completely.

Step 4

Clip a candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan (making sure the tip doesn't touch the bottom). Cook the mixture without stirring until it reaches 238°F (soft-ball stage).

Step 5

Once the mixture reaches the correct temperature, remove it from the heat and let it cool undisturbed for about 10 minutes, or until it reaches approximately 120°F.

Step 6

Add the vanilla extract to the cooled mixture. Beat it vigorously with a wooden spoon or a handheld mixer until the fudge thickens, becomes creamy, and loses its glossy appearance (this can take 5-7 minutes).

Step 7

Scrape the fudge into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Allow it to set completely at room temperature for about 2-3 hours.

Step 8

Once the fudge has set, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut it into small squares or rectangles, about 1 inch in size.

Step 9

Melt the chocolate with the vegetable shortening (if using) in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) or in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 10

Dip each piece of fudge into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow excess chocolate to drip off and place the coated pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet to set.

Step 11

Let the coated fudge set at room temperature or refrigerate briefly until the chocolate is firm. Serve and enjoy your decadent Opera Fudge!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	975.4 grams (975.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4287

Total Fat 193.50g	248%
Saturated Fat 115.70g	579%
Polyunsaturated Fat NaNg
Cholesterol 242mg	81%
Sodium 148mg	6%
Total Carbohydrate 622.10g	226%
Dietary Fiber 23.80g	85%
Total Sugars 577.90g
Protein 16.90g	34%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 197mg	15%
Iron 27mg	151%
Potassium 1917mg	41%

*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: 40.5%

Protein: 1.6%

Carbs: 57.9%