Description
This Coal Fudge recipe creates rich, chocolatey fudge with a thick, smooth texture and a dramatic black color. The fudge combines melted sugar, marshmallow fluff, evaporated milk, butter, and semi-sweet chocolate chips, infused with vanilla and black gel food coloring. Perfect for gifting or a special dessert treat, this fudge sets at room temperature for an easy, no-bake finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Fudge Base
- 5 cups granulated sugar
- 1 (16 ounce) container marshmallow fluff
- 1 ¼ cups evaporated milk
- ½ cup butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
Chocolate & Flavoring
- 24 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Black gel food coloring (quantity as needed)
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Line a 9×13 or 11×15 inch baking pan with parchment paper and grease it lightly with butter or non-stick spray. Set aside to use after cooking.
- Combine and melt ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, add sugar, marshmallow fluff, evaporated milk, butter, and salt. Stir over medium-low heat to melt and combine the mixture thoroughly.
- Bring to boil: Once the sugar is fully dissolved, increase the heat to medium and continue stirring while bringing the mixture to a full boil.
- Cook to soft-ball stage: Maintain a boil and stir constantly until the temperature reaches between 234°F and 240°F (soft-ball stage), which typically takes about 5 minutes.
- Add chocolate and flavorings: Remove pot from heat and immediately stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and black gel food coloring. Mix until the fudge becomes smooth and evenly colored. Add additional food coloring as needed for desired blackness.
- Set the fudge: Pour the fudge into the prepared pan and let it set at room temperature until firm.
- Serve: Once set, use the parchment paper to lift the fudge out of the pan. Slice into squares and serve.
Notes
- Ensure constant stirring during the boiling step to prevent the fudge from burning.
- Use a candy thermometer to accurately measure the temperature for best texture.
- Black gel food coloring is preferred as it provides a deep color without altering the fudge consistency.
- Fudge can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- For a firmer fudge, refrigerate after setting at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: coal fudge, black fudge, chocolate fudge, homemade fudge, marshmallow fudge, holiday fudge
