There’s something special about a Carnation fudge recipe—it’s rich, creamy, and melts in your mouth, making every bite pure bliss. Whether you’re reminiscing about family traditions or looking for an easy homemade fudge to impress your guests, this recipe is a must-try!
Using Carnation evaporated milk, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and a few pantry staples, you’ll create a smooth, indulgent treat perfect for holidays, special occasions, or whenever a chocolate craving strikes. Best of all, this no-fail recipe ensures you get perfectly set, irresistibly delicious fudge every time.
Table of Contents
Key Benefits of This Carnation Fudge Recipe
Why should this Carnation fudge recipe be your go-to for a decadent, chocolatey treat? Here’s why:
Foolproof & Beginner-Friendly – No candy thermometer needed! This recipe is simple and easy to master.
Ultra-Creamy Texture: Thanks to Carnation evaporated milk, every bite is smooth, rich, and indulgent.
Quick & Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute cravings or holiday treats.
Perfectly Set Fudge: No more grainy or overly soft fudge—this method guarantees the ideal consistency every time.
Versatile & Customizable: Add nuts, swirl in peanut butter, or top with sea salt for a unique twist.
Great for Gifting – Homemade fudge wrapped in a festive box makes a heartfelt, delicious present.
Ingredients for the Perfect Carnation Fudge
Before we dive into making this Carnation fudge recipe, let’s gather everything you need. Using high-quality ingredients ensures a smooth, rich, and creamy fudge every time!
Main Ingredients:
- Carnation evaporated milk (5 oz can) – The secret to achieving a velvety texture without using heavy cream.
- Granulated sugar (1 ½ cups) – Adds the perfect amount of sweetness and helps the fudge appropriately set.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup, cubed) – Enhances richness and creates a silky mouthfeel.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (2 cups) – Melt smoothly for a deep, indulgent chocolate flavor.
- Marshmallow creme (7 oz jar) – Helps create a soft, chewy consistency while adding a hint of sweetness.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon) – Brings out the chocolate’s natural depth and adds warmth.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon) – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
Optional Mix-Ins & Toppings:
- Chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds) – For added crunch and texture.
- Sea salt flakes – A pinch on top gives a delicious, sweet-salty contrast.
- Swirled peanut butter or caramel – Elevates the flavor with an extra indulgent touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this Carnation fudge recipe is simple, and the results are absolutely delicious! Follow these easy steps for a smooth, creamy, and perfectly set fudge that will melt in your mouth.
1: Prepare Your Pan
- Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter.
- Leave a slight overhang on the sides to make it easier to lift the fudge out.
2: Heat the Base Mixture
- In a medium saucepan, combine Carnation evaporated milk, granulated sugar, and butter over medium heat.
- Stir constantly until the butter melts and the mixture starts to bubble.
- Once bubbling, let it cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. The mixture should thicken slightly.
3: Melt the Chocolate & Blend
- Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in semi-sweet chocolate chips, marshmallow creme, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Stir quickly and continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture turns smooth and glossy.
4: Pour & Set the Fudge
- Transfer the warm fudge mixture to the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- If toppings like chopped nuts or sea salt are added, sprinkle them on now and gently press them in.
- Let the fudge cool at room temperature for about 2 hours, then place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to fully set.
5: Slice & Serve
- Once firm, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper and place it on a cutting board.
- Use a sharp knife to cut it into bite-sized squares.
- For clean cuts, wipe the knife with a damp cloth between slices.
Storage Tips
- Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For a firmer texture, keep it refrigerated for up to two weeks.
- Freeze for more extended storage—wrap pieces in parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
Pro Tips and Variations for the Best Carnation Fudge
Want to make your Carnation fudge recipe even better? Here are some expert tips and fun variations to customize your fudge to perfection!
Pro Tips for Perfect Fudge
Use High-Quality Chocolate – The better the chocolate, the richer the flavor. Opt for premium semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips.
Stir Constantly: Keep stirring while cooking to prevent scorching and ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
Don’t Overcook the Mixture: Once it reaches a gentle boil, cook for just 4–5 minutes. Overcooking can make the fudge grainy.
Line Your Pan for Easy Removal: Parchment paper or lightly greased foil makes slicing and serving hassle-free.
Let It Set Properly – Patience is key! Cooling at room temperature first before chilling in the fridge prevents sugar crystallization.
For Clean Slices – Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean with a warm, damp cloth between cuts for perfectly even squares.
Delicious Variations to Try
Nutty Delight – Stir in ½ cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for a crunchy twist.
Salted Chocolate Fudge: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt flakes on top for a sweet-salty balance.
Peanut Butter Swirl – Swirl in ¼ cup of melted peanut butter before the fudge sets for a nutty, creamy contrast.
Marbled Fudge: Mix white and dark chocolate chips for a beautiful two-tone effect.
Festive Peppermint: Add ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract and sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for a holiday touch.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top before chilling for an extra indulgent finish.
Serving Suggestions for Carnation Fudge
This Carnation fudge recipe is a versatile and indulgent treat, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a dessert, gifting it, or pairing it with other sweets, here are some creative ways to enjoy it!
Best Ways to Serve Carnation Fudge
Classic Bite-Sized Squares – The traditional way! Serve small squares on a dessert platter for an easy-to-share treat.
With a Cup of Coffee or Hot Chocolate – The rich, chocolatey flavor pairs beautifully with a warm drink.
Drizzled with Caramel or Chocolate Sauce: For an extra decadent touch, add a light drizzle of warm caramel or melted chocolate before serving.
Topped with Whipped Cream & Berries – A dollop of whipped cream and fresh raspberries or strawberries adds a fruity contrast.
As a Sundae Topping – Crumble small pieces over vanilla ice cream for a rich, fudge-like texture.
With a Sprinkle of Sea Salt – If you love sweet-salty desserts, a light sprinkle of sea salt just before serving enhances the flavors.
Perfect Occasions for Homemade Fudge
Homemade Gifts – Wrap pieces in decorative tins or cellophane bags for an elegant and thoughtful gift.
Holiday Desserts: Add fudge to a Christmas cookie platter or serve at holiday gatherings.
Party Treats – A great addition to dessert buffets or birthday celebrations.
Paired with Cookies & Brownies: Serve alongside chewy brownies, shortbread, or peanut butter cookies for a delicious variety.
No matter how you serve it, this rich, creamy fudge is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy every bite!
Conclusion
Making homemade Carnation fudge is a simple yet rewarding experience. With just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a rich, creamy, and melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, holiday gifts, or to satisfy a chocolate craving, this fail-proof fudge recipe is sure to impress.
By following the pro tips and variations, you can customize your fudge to suit your taste—whether you love a classic smooth texture, a nutty crunch, or a salted caramel twist. Plus, with the proper storage techniques, you can enjoy your homemade fudge for days (or even weeks) to come!
Now it’s your turn! Try this Carnation fudge recipe, experiment with different flavors, and share your delicious creations with family and friends. Have any favorite add-ins or extraordinary serving ideas? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear how you make this fudge your own!
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making the perfect Carnation fudge recipe, along with expert answers to help you achieve the best results.
Why is my fudge grainy instead of smooth?
Grainy fudge is usually caused by overcooking the sugar mixture or not stirring continuously. To ensure a smooth and creamy texture, stir constantly while cooking and avoid boiling for too long.
How can I make my fudge firmer?
If your fudge is too soft, it may not have cooked long enough. Be sure to follow the recommended cooking time (4–5 minutes of boiling) and allow it to set entirely in the refrigerator before cutting.
Can I add different flavors or mix-ins?
Absolutely! Try adding:
Chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds) for crunch
Peanut butter for a nutty swirl
Crushed peppermint for a holiday touch
Caramel drizzle for extra sweetness
Espresso powder for a mocha twist
How do I cut fudge without it sticking to the knife?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean with a warm, damp cloth between cuts. This prevents sticking and ensures clean, even squares.
Can I make this fudge recipe without marshmallow creme?
Yes! Marshmallow creme helps create a smoother texture. However, you can replace it with sweetened condensed milk or a bit more butter for a similar consistency.
Source Links
carnation-famous-fudge – https://www.verybestbaking.com/carnation/recipes/carnation-famous-fudge/
CARNATION Famous Fudge – https://www.elmejornido.com/en/recipes/carnation-famous-fudge
Famous Carnation Fudge Recipe – https://www.tammileetips.com/carnation-famous-fudge-recipe/