I remember my grandmother making this classic fudge, and now it’s my go-to for a sweet treat that always brings smiles and nostalgia. Craving a taste of childhood or a simple, sweet treat? This Hershey Fudge Recipe 1950 Old-Fashioned Squares is your ticket to creamy, rich deliciousness in no time. Perfect for a quick family dessert, a potluck star, or a homemade gift, even on your busiest days. It’s a beloved, time-tested recipe passed down through generations. Get ready for irresistibly smooth, perfectly sweet fudge that always disappears fast and can be a great addition to your family-friendly dessert collection, making this Hershey Fudge Recipe 1950 Old-Fashioned Squares a staple!
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Gather Your Goodies: Ingredient List for Classic Fudge
To make this authentic Hershey Fudge Recipe 1950 Old-Fashioned Squares, you won’t need anything fancy. These are common pantry staples, making it a perfect choice for budget meal prep and easy dinner ideas.
- Granulated sugar: 2 cups (400g) – The primary sweetener, giving our fudge its classic texture.
- Hershey’s cocoa powder: ¾ cup (75g) – Provides that iconic, deep chocolate flavor we all love.
- Whole milk: ½ cup (120ml) – Adds moisture and contributes to the fudge’s creamy consistency. For a plant-based option, you can use almond milk or soy milk, though the texture might vary slightly.
- Unsalted butter: ¼ cup (57g) – Essential for richness and a smooth mouthfeel. Vegan butter sticks work wonderfully if you’re looking for a plant-based alternative.
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon – A flavor enhancer that brings out the best in the chocolate.
For a little something extra, I sometimes add a pinch of flaky sea salt – it really elevates the chocolate! Or, for a holiday twist, a few drops of peppermint extract can be delightful. This straightforward ingredient list makes this Hershey Fudge Recipe 1950 Old-Fashioned Squares an accessible and easy option for any home cook looking for family-friendly recipes.
Whisking Up Sweet Memories: Easy Step-by-Step Directions
Making this Hershey Fudge Recipe 1950 Old-Fashioned Squares is a delightful experience. Just follow these steps for perfect, old-fashioned squares every time. It’s truly one of those quick meals or quick dessert ideas you’ll cherish.
- Prep your pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving an overhang on the sides. Lightly butter the paper/foil for easy removal.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan (this helps prevent scorching!), mix the granulated sugar and cocoa powder until well combined.
- Add liquids: Stir in the whole milk and unsalted butter.
- Boil and stir: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium heat, stirring constantly for 3-5 minutes. You’ll notice it starting to thicken. If you have a candy thermometer, aim for 234-238°F (soft-ball stage). If not, don’t worry, the cold water test works great – drop a small amount into cold water; it should form a soft ball.
- Remove and cool: Take the saucepan off the heat and let the fudge cool slightly without stirring for about 5 minutes. This is important for the final texture.
- Beat to perfection: Add the vanilla extract. Now, beat vigorously by hand or with an electric mixer until the mixture loses its glossy sheen and starts to thicken (this usually takes 5-7 minutes). This beating process is the secret to that wonderfully creamy texture of this Hershey Fudge Recipe 1950 Old-Fashioned Squares!
- Pour and set: Quickly pour the thickened fudge into your prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Chill out: Let it set at room temperature for at least 2 hours, or chill it in the fridge for 1 hour for a quicker set.
- Cut and enjoy: Once firm, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the fudge from the pan. Cut into classic old-fashioned squares and serve!
Inline Shortcuts & Variations: Using a stand mixer for the beating step will save your arm strength! If you’re feeling adventurous, stir in about 1 cup of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans), mini marshmallows, or even a sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before pouring the fudge into the pan. This Hershey Fudge Recipe 1950 Old-Fashioned Squares is wonderfully adaptable for all your family dinners.
Share the Sweetness: Ideal Uses and Serving Suggestions
This classic Hershey Fudge Recipe 1950 Old-Fashioned Squares is wonderfully versatile! It’s perfect for almost any occasion, big or small. Treat your family to a delightful weeknight dessert, bring it as a standout dish to gatherings or potlucks, or wrap it up for a heartfelt homemade gift during the holidays.
For the ultimate experience, pair these rich, old-fashioned squares with a cold glass of milk, a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, or enjoy alongside my morning coffee or evening hot chocolate. It’s a simple pleasure that always hits the spot.
Guidance for leftovers, storage, and reheating:
To keep your delicious fudge at its best, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you need it to last longer, pop it in the fridge for up to two weeks. For extended freshness, this Hershey Fudge Recipe 1950 Old-Fashioned Squares can even be frozen for up to three months; just thaw it at room temperature before enjoying.
Sweet Wins: Everyday Benefits of Cooking with This Classic Fudge Recipe
Making this Hershey Fudge Recipe 1950 Old-Fashioned Squares offers some fantastic everyday benefits beyond just a delicious treat. It’s a wonderful way to save time on quick dinner ideas by having dessert ready ahead, or for simple meal prep for sweet treats throughout the week. Plus, it’s incredibly budget-friendly, relying on common pantry ingredients.
Incorporating a homemade dessert like these old-fashioned squares into your routine ties beautifully into balanced lifestyle goals. It allows you to enjoy a satisfying, nutritious snack in moderation or a thoughtful treat as part of healthy recipes for families, giving you control over the ingredients.
Beyond the Basics: Tips, Variations, and Dietary Adjustments
Technique upgrades to improve results:
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent scorching and ensure even heating, which is crucial for perfect fudge.
- Once removed from the heat and cooling, avoid scraping the sides of the pot to prevent crystallization, ensuring a smooth texture.
- Beat the fudge mixture thoroughly and vigorously until it loses its glossy sheen for ultimate creaminess – this step is key for this Hershey Fudge Recipe 1950 Old-Fashioned Squares.
Flavor/spice tweaks for different cuisines:
- For a warm, exotic twist, add a pinch of cinnamon for a Mexican chocolate fudge vibe.
- A dash of almond extract can introduce a lovely nutty note, enhancing the chocolate flavor.
- For a brighter, citrusy contrast, stir in some fresh orange zest before pouring the fudge into the pan.
Adjustments for common diets:
For those following a low-carb diet, this traditional recipe might not fit, but there are many excellent alternative fudge recipes designed with sugar substitutes. If you’re looking for a plant-based option, you can experiment with dairy-free milk (like almond or soy milk) and vegan butter sticks, though do note that the texture might vary slightly from the classic version. For making this a kid-safe treat, simply ensure nuts are omitted if allergies are a concern in your family.
Your Fudge Questions Answered: FAQs
Is this Hershey Fudge Recipe 1950 Old-Fashioned Squares suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, absolutely! This particular Hershey Fudge Recipe 1950 Old-Fashioned Squares is naturally gluten-free as it contains no flour or other gluten-containing ingredients. It’s a wonderful, safe treat for those avoiding gluten.
How can I meal prep with this Hershey Fudge Recipe 1950 Old-Fashioned Squares for the week?
This recipe is excellent for budget meal prep! Simply make a large batch, let it set, then cut into individual old-fashioned squares. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and you’ll have easy grab-and-go treats or additions to your family dinner dessert all week long.
What’s the best way to store homemade Hershey fudge?
For the best texture and freshness, store your homemade Hershey fudge in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps maintain its creamy consistency. If you need a longer shelf life, refrigerating it will keep it fresh for up to two weeks.
Why is my old-fashioned fudge crumbly or grainy?
Crumbly or grainy fudge usually happens from under-beating the mixture or not allowing it to cool properly before beating. The key is to beat it vigorously and thoroughly until it loses its glossy sheen and thickens significantly, ensuring that signature smooth texture of a good Hershey Fudge Recipe 1950 Old-Fashioned Squares.
Can I use chocolate chips instead of cocoa powder for this 1950 recipe?
While you can certainly make fudge with chocolate chips, this specific Hershey Fudge Recipe 1950 Old-Fashioned Squares is designed around cocoa powder. Cocoa provides a distinct, deep chocolate flavor and helps create the unique texture that makes this old-fashioned fudge so special. Using chips would result in a different kind of fudge.
How do I know when the fudge is done cooking if I don’t have a candy thermometer?
A classic trick is the cold water test! Drop a small amount of the boiling mixture into a cup of very cold water. It should immediately form a soft ball that holds its shape when you pick it up but can be easily flattened between your fingers. This indicates it has reached the soft-ball stage.
Can I add nuts to this classic Hershey Fudge Recipe 1950 Old-Fashioned Squares?
Absolutely! Adding nuts is a popular and delicious variation. Stir in about 1 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or even almonds after you’ve finished beating the fudge, just before you pour it into the prepared pan. This gives a lovely crunch and extra flavor to your old-fashioned squares.
Conclusion
This Hershey Fudge Recipe 1950 Old-Fashioned Squares isn’t just a simple dessert; it’s a comforting slice of history, easy to make, and guarantees smiles all around. It’s a testament to how classic recipes can still bring so much joy and deliciousness to our modern tables, whether for quick meals or special family dinners.
Whip up a batch tonight for a taste of the good old days, share with loved ones, and make it a new family tradition! Remember to save this delightful Hershey Fudge Recipe 1950 Old-Fashioned Squares on Pinterest for future sweet cravings and easy dessert ideas.
I know you’ll absolutely love making these old-fashioned squares!
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Hershey Fudge Recipe 1950 Old-Fashioned Squares
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 16–25 squares 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy, rich Hershey Fudge recipe from 1950 brings sweet nostalgia. Made with simple pantry staples, it’s perfect for quick family desserts or homemade gifts.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (400g) Granulated sugar
- ¾ cup (75g) Hershey’s cocoa powder
- ½ cup (120ml) Whole milk
- ¼ cup (57g) Unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prep Your Pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving an overhang. Lightly butter the paper/foil for easy removal.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, mix the granulated sugar and cocoa powder until well combined.
- Add Liquids: Stir in the whole milk and unsalted butter.
- Boil and Stir: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium heat, stirring constantly for 3-5 minutes. It will start to thicken. (Aim for 234-238°F / soft-ball stage with a candy thermometer, or use the cold water test).
- Remove and Cool: Take the saucepan off the heat and let the fudge cool slightly without stirring for about 5 minutes.
- Beat to Perfection: Add the vanilla extract. Beat vigorously by hand or with an electric mixer until the mixture loses its glossy sheen and starts to thicken (5-7 minutes).
- Pour and Set: Quickly pour the thickened fudge into your prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Chill Out: Let it set at room temperature for at least 2 hours, or chill it in the fridge for 1 hour for a quicker set.
- Cut and Enjoy: Once firm, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the fudge from the pan. Cut into classic old-fashioned squares and serve!
Notes
Substitutions: For a plant-based option, use almond milk or soy milk instead of whole milk, and vegan butter sticks instead of unsalted butter. Note that texture might vary slightly.
Variations: Stir in about 1 cup of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans), mini marshmallows, or a pinch of flaky sea salt just before pouring. For a holiday twist, add a few drops of peppermint extract.
Tip: Using a stand mixer for the beating step will save arm strength!
Nutritional Information: The nutritional values provided are estimates, as they were not included in the original recipe article.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (approx. 30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Hershey Fudge, Old-Fashioned Fudge, Chocolate Fudge, Easy Fudge, Dessert, American Dessert