Millionaire Fudge

48 servings Prep: 15 m Cook: 6 m Total: 21 m Intermediate
5.0/5 (3)
Millionaire Fudge
No this fudge won’t make you rich, but when you taste it, you’ll feel like you are. This decadent candy is loaded with chocolate, marshmallow crème, pecans, and a hint of amaretto.

Ingredients

48 servings
  • 4 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1 (12 oz) can Pet milk
  • 1 stick margarine
  • 8 Hershey Bars Plain chocolate candy
  • 1 (7 oz) jar marshmallow crème
  • 6 cups pecans
  • 2 cups chocolate chips
  • 2 tbsp amaretto
  • 1 tsp vanilla

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. In a large glass bowl combine the margarine, broken up Hershey bars, marshmallow cream, pecans, chocolate chips, vanilla and amaretto.
  2. In a medium heavy duty saucepan, combine the sugar and milk and bring to a hard boil. Boil for exactly 6 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Remove from heat and pour over the remaining ingredients in the bowl.
  3. Stir the mixture until the chocolate and marshmallow cream are completely melted and everything is well combined. Drop by teaspoonful onto wax paper. When cool and firm, store in a closed container.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why didn't my fudge set up properly?

A: Make sure you bring the sugar and milk mixture to a full rolling boil and maintain it for the full 6 minutes. If you undercook it, the fudge won't firm up properly.

Q: Can I make this without the amaretto?

A: Yes, you can omit the amaretto or substitute with 2 tablespoons of strong coffee or additional vanilla extract.

Q: Why is my fudge grainy?

A: Graininess usually means sugar crystals formed. Make sure to stir the hot mixture thoroughly when you pour it over the chocolate to melt everything completely and smoothly.

Tips and Techniques

Use a candy thermometer if you have one - the sugar mixture should reach about 234°F (soft ball stage). Chopping the pecans makes the fudge easier to bite into and helps distribute them evenly throughout each piece.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • amaretto: 2 tablespoons strong brewed coffee, rum, or additional vanilla extract
  • Pet milk (evaporated milk): any brand of evaporated milk
  • margarine: butter
  • Hershey Bars: any good quality milk chocolate bars

Equipment Needed

  • Large glass or metal mixing bowl
  • Medium heavy-duty saucepan
  • Wooden spoon for stirring
  • Wax paper or parchment paper
  • Teaspoon or small cookie scoop

Historical Context

Millionaire Fudge became popular in the South in the mid-20th century as a no-fail candy recipe for the holidays. Unlike traditional fudge that requires careful temperature monitoring, this version uses marshmallow crème for foolproof results.