Description
Baked Fudge is a rich and indulgent chocolate dessert featuring a delicate cake-like crust with a warm, gooey, fudgy center. Made from simple pantry staples, this classic American treat is straightforward to prepare and ideal for serving warm alongside vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an irresistible dessert experience.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease an 8-inch square baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Mix Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until well combined and smooth.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition to incorporate them evenly into the batter.
- Incorporate Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract to enrich the flavor of the batter.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Sift together the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and salt, then gently fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Fold in Nuts: If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans evenly through the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Prepare Water Bath: Pour the batter into the greased baking dish and spread evenly. Place this dish inside a larger roasting pan and carefully pour hot water into the outer pan until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the baking dish. This water bath ensures gentle, even cooking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes. The top should be set, but the center remains soft and fudgy to achieve the signature texture.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the baking dish carefully from the water bath and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes to set slightly before serving.
- Serve: Serve warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or a light dusting of powdered sugar to enhance the dessert experience.
Notes
- Do not overbake to preserve the soft, fudgy center that makes this dessert special.
- Use unsweetened cocoa powder for an authentic, balanced chocolate flavor.
- Add chocolate chips for an extra rich and decadent texture.
- The water bath method helps create a soft, pudding-like center by providing gentle and even heat.
- Store leftover baked fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat individual portions briefly before serving to enjoy the gooey texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Chocolate Desserts, Puddings
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American