Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Fudge

Rich, smooth, and decadently sweet with a perfect balance of salty, this Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Fudge is a dessert lover’s dream. The creamy fudge is made with only five ingredients — dark chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, butter, vanilla, and a touch of sea salt — making it incredibly easy to prepare yet indulgent in flavor. The sprinkle of sea salt on top enhances the deep chocolatey goodness and creates a sophisticated sweet-salty flavor combination that everyone will adore.

Ingredients

• 2 cups dark chocolate chips
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (plus extra for topping)

Directions

1. Melt the Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the dark chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
2. Add Flavor: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt. Mix well to combine.
3. Set the Fudge: Pour the fudge mixture into an 8×8-inch dish lined with parchment paper. Use a spatula to smooth the top evenly.
4. Top with Sea Salt: Sprinkle a little extra sea salt on top of the fudge for added flavor and texture.
5. Chill: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours, or until it is firm and set.
6. Cut and Serve: Once set, remove the fudge from the dish and cut into squares. Enjoy this rich, melt-in-your-mouth treat!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 squares
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including refrigeration time)

Variations

• Add-ins: You can mix in crushed nuts, such as almonds or pistachios, or add some dried fruit like cherries or cranberries for a chewy texture.
• Flavored Fudge: To enhance the flavor, try adding a few tablespoons of espresso powder or a teaspoon of cinnamon for a warm, spiced kick.
• Milk Chocolate Fudge: If you prefer a sweeter fudge, you can substitute the dark chocolate chips with milk chocolate chips or a combination of both.
• Vegan Version: Use coconut milk instead of sweetened condensed milk and replace butter with coconut oil to make a dairy-free version of this fudge.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store your Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. This fudge will stay fresh and firm in the fridge, perfect for snacking over several days.
• Freezing: To keep the fudge for longer, you can freeze it. Wrap individual squares in parchment paper or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate chips? Yes, milk chocolate chips will work just as well if you prefer a sweeter fudge, though the flavor will be less intense than with dark chocolate.
2. Can I make this fudge without sweetened condensed milk? Sweetened condensed milk is essential for the creamy texture and sweetness of this fudge. Substituting it with regular milk would alter the texture.
3. How do I know when the fudge is set and ready? The fudge should feel firm to the touch and hold its shape when you cut into it. It will take about 2 hours in the fridge to fully set.
4. Can I add other flavors to the fudge? Absolutely! You can mix in extracts like peppermint, almond, or orange to give your fudge a different flavor profile.
5. Do I have to refrigerate the fudge? Yes, refrigerating the fudge allows it to firm up and set properly. Without refrigeration, it will remain too soft to cut into neat squares.
6. Can I make this fudge in a larger or smaller pan? Yes, but be sure to adjust the thickness and baking time accordingly. If you use a larger pan, the fudge will be thinner and may set faster, while a smaller pan will make thicker fudge.
7. Can I use a different type of salt? Sea salt gives a unique flavor and texture, but if you don’t have it, kosher salt or flaky salt would work as a substitute. Just be sure to use a smaller amount to avoid overpowering the fudge.
8. How do I cut the fudge neatly? For clean cuts, refrigerate the fudge for a few hours before cutting it into squares. Use a sharp knife to avoid squishing the fudge.
9. Can I add caramel or toffee bits to the fudge? Yes, caramel or toffee bits would make an excellent addition to this recipe. Just fold them into the melted fudge mixture before setting it.
10. Can I use a different dish size for this fudge? If you want thicker fudge, use a smaller pan (like a 7×7-inch dish). For thinner fudge, use a larger pan, but adjust the cooling time as necessary.

Conclusion

Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Fudge is a simple yet luxurious treat that delivers a rich chocolate flavor with a perfect hint of saltiness. With minimal ingredients and a quick prep time, this easy fudge recipe is ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing with friends and family. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or just indulging in a homemade dessert, this fudge is sure to impress with its smooth texture and sophisticated flavor. Enjoy the balance of sweet and salty in every bite!

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