Blue-Ribbon Fudge

Most types of candy are best left to the professionals to make, but fudge is something many people make at home. There are dozens, if not hundreds, of recipes for easy fudge, but many we have tried had a grainy or crumbly texture, not to mention a weak chocolate flavor. We wanted to make full-flavored, smooth fudge at home. Here’s what we discovered:

Test Kitchen Discoveries

• Most fudge recipes use heavy cream, but evaporated milk is a safer bet because it is so stable. It will not separate if overheated.
• Use Marshmallow Fluff to ensure a light, airy texture. The Fluff also protects the sugar from any accidental crystallization, which would mar the fudge’s smooth texture.
• Boost the flavor of bittersweet chocolate with intense-tasting unsweetened chocolate. With less sugar in it, unsweetened chocolate contains much more chocolate flavor.
• Toast the nuts in a skillet over medium heat to bring out their best flavor.