Chocolate Espresso Fudge
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely love making Chocolate Espresso Fudge because it satisfies both my sweet tooth and my coffee cravings. The rich chocolate combined with a hint of espresso creates a luxurious dessert that's perfect for special occasions or even just a treat for myself. What I adore about this fudge is how simple it is to make yet impressive enough to serve at gatherings. Each bite offers a smooth, creamy texture that melts in your mouth, delivering a delightful burst of flavor that keeps me coming back for more.
When I first decided to combine chocolate and espresso, I was unsure if the flavors would complement each other. However, after my first batch, I was blown away by how the deep coffee notes enhanced the rich chocolate. I recommend using high-quality cocoa and freshly brewed espresso for the best results.
This fudge is not only delightful in taste but also easy to prepare. The key is to keep stirring as the chocolate melts to achieve that perfectly smooth consistency. It’s a treat that has found its way into my recipe rotation!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Decadent chocolate flavor harmonized with bold espresso.
- A velvety texture that provides a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Perfect for gifting or as a personal indulgence.
Key Ingredients and Their Roles
The star of Chocolate Espresso Fudge is undoubtedly the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Their rich flavor is complemented perfectly by the sweetness of the condensed milk, which not only adds sweetness but also contributes to the creamy texture. The butter plays a crucial role in ensuring the fudge remains smooth and luscious, while the instant espresso powder introduces a delightful coffee note that elevates the overall flavor profile.
In this recipe, precision is key. Using a good quality semi-sweet chocolate chip can make a big difference in flavor. I recommend brands like Ghirardelli or Guittard for their rich taste and meltability. If you're a dark chocolate lover, feel free to substitute half of the semi-sweet chocolate with dark chocolate chips for a more intense flavor profile.
Perfecting the Texture
Achieving that velvety, melt-in-your-mouth texture requires careful melting of the chocolate and other ingredients. It's vital to keep the heat low and stir continuously to avoid scorching the chocolate. You'll know the mixture is ready when it appears glossy and all ingredients are thoroughly combined. If you notice any graininess, it's likely due to uneven melting; simply return it to low heat and stir until smooth.
Once you've poured the mixture into the prepared dish, be sure to spread it evenly. If you want a smoother top, you can gently tap the dish on a counter to settle the mixture. For an extra touch, consider sprinkling a few coffee grounds or sea salt on top before chilling to enhance the visual appeal and flavor contrast.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Chocolate Espresso Fudge Ingredients
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Pan
Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
Melt Ingredients
In a saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, butter, and instant espresso powder. Stir continuously until everything is melted and well combined.
Add Vanilla and Salt
Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
Transfer to Pan
Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Chill the Fudge
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
Cut and Serve
Lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into squares. Enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, sprinkle sea salt on top before chilling. You can also experiment with different chocolate types, like dark or white chocolate, to create variations of this fudge.
Make-Ahead and Storage
Chocolate Espresso Fudge is an excellent make-ahead treat. Once fully chilled and set, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To keep it fresh, you can layer it between sheets of parchment paper and seal it tightly. If you prefer a softer texture, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving.
For those who like to plan ahead for gift-giving, this fudge freezes beautifully. Cut the fudge into squares, then place it in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze until solid. After that, you can stack the squares in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. It can be frozen for up to three months without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
This fudge can be enjoyed on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. Consider serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert or crumble it over your morning Greek yogurt for a sweet boost. To elevate presentation, use cookie cutters to shape the fudge into festive designs for holidays or special occasions.
If you want to switch things up, try adding chopped nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts for added crunch and flavor. You can also experiment with flavored extracts, such as almond or hazelnut, to create different taste profiles. For a more complex flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of espresso liqueur to the melted mixture for an adult twist.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use dark chocolate instead?
Yes, dark chocolate can be used instead of semi-sweet for a richer flavor.
→ How long can I store the fudge?
The fudge can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
→ Can I freeze the fudge?
Absolutely! You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped.
→ Is there a substitute for sweetened condensed milk?
You can try evaporated milk with added sugar as a substitute, but the texture may vary.
Chocolate Espresso Fudge
I absolutely love making Chocolate Espresso Fudge because it satisfies both my sweet tooth and my coffee cravings. The rich chocolate combined with a hint of espresso creates a luxurious dessert that's perfect for special occasions or even just a treat for myself. What I adore about this fudge is how simple it is to make yet impressive enough to serve at gatherings. Each bite offers a smooth, creamy texture that melts in your mouth, delivering a delightful burst of flavor that keeps me coming back for more.
Created by: Poppy Walsh
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 16 pieces
What You'll Need
Chocolate Espresso Fudge Ingredients
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
How-To Steps
Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
In a saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, butter, and instant espresso powder. Stir continuously until everything is melted and well combined.
Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
Lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into squares. Enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, sprinkle sea salt on top before chilling. You can also experiment with different chocolate types, like dark or white chocolate, to create variations of this fudge.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 60mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 3g