Mackinac Island Fudge
Indulge in the rich, creamy delight of Mackinac Island Fudge, a beloved treat hailing from Michigan’s famous Mackinac Island. Known for its smooth texture and decadent flavor, this fudge has been a staple for over a century, attracting fudge enthusiasts from all over the world. The recipe captures the magic of the island in every bite, bringing the authentic taste of this legendary fudge right to your kitchen.
With its perfect balance of sweetness and a touch of cocoa, Mackinac Island Fudge is an ideal treat for any occasion. This easy-to-make recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it a fantastic option for a quick dessert or a gift for loved ones. Whether you’re an experienced fudge maker or trying it for the first time, the steps are straightforward, ensuring a delightful result every time.
Create your own slice of Mackinac Island charm with this timeless fudge recipe, featuring simple ingredients that come together to form a velvety, melt-in-your-mouth confection. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make this crowd-pleasing dessert!
Key Ingredients for Mackinac Island Fudge
- Unsalted butter – Adds a rich, creamy base to the fudge, ensuring a smooth and velvety texture.
- Milk – Helps dissolve the sugars, creating the perfect consistency for a soft and chewy fudge.
- Granulated white sugar – Provides the necessary sweetness and structure for the fudge to set properly.
- Brown sugar – Adds depth and a hint of molasses flavor, enhancing the overall taste profile.
- Pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors of the cocoa and vanilla.
- Vanilla extract – Infuses the fudge with a warm, aromatic flavor, complementing the cocoa.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder – Gives the fudge its classic chocolate flavor, adding richness and intensity.
- Confectioners’ sugar – Helps create a smooth texture and adds a delicate sweetness that melts in your mouth.
Easy Steps to Make Mackinac Island Fudge
- Mix the unsalted butter, milk, salt, brown sugar, and white sugar in a heavy pan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring continuously for 6 minutes to ensure everything melts and combines smoothly.
- Remove the pan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool briefly, then add vanilla extract, unsweetened cocoa powder, and confectioner’s sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture until it becomes smooth and thick.
- Pour the fudge mixture onto a buttered baking pan, spreading it evenly. Allow it to cool until it is just firm enough to handle. Using a spatula, gently roll the fudge into a log shape.
- Wrap the fudge log in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for about 20 minutes to set completely.
- Once set, slice into pieces and serve. Enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness of your homemade Mackinac Island Fudge!
Tips for Perfect Fudge
- Use a Heavy Pan: A heavy-bottomed pan helps distribute heat evenly, preventing the sugars from burning.
- Constant Stirring: Stir continuously while boiling to avoid any burning or sticking at the bottom of the pan.
- Cool Slightly Before Mixing: Allow the boiled mixture to cool for a minute or two before adding the cocoa and confectioner’s sugar; this helps achieve the right consistency.
- Shape While Soft: Roll the fudge into a log while it is still soft and malleable to get the perfect shape.
Recipe Variations
For a unique twist, try adding chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the fudge for a delightful crunch. You could also swirl in peanut butter for a rich, nutty flavor or add a dash of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate notes. For a holiday flair, consider incorporating peppermint extract or crushed candy canes.
Storing Your Mackinac Island Fudge
To keep your Mackinac Island Fudge fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to enjoy it for longer, wrap individual pieces in wax paper, place them in a zip-top bag, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the fudge at room temperature for a few hours. This method ensures that each piece retains its soft, creamy texture.
Dive into the joy of making Mackinac Island Fudge and savor each delightful bite with friends and family!
Mackinac Island Fudge Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ cup milk
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup granulated white sugar
- ½ cup firmly packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
Instructions
- In a heavy-bottomed pan, combine the butter, milk, salt, granulated white sugar, and brown sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Continue boiling and stirring for about 6 minutes to ensure the sugars dissolve and the mixture becomes smooth.
- Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool slightly. Then, add the vanilla extract, unsweetened cocoa powder, and confectioners’ sugar.
- Beat the mixture using an electric mixer until it reaches a smooth, thick consistency.
- Pour the fudge onto a buttered baking pan. Allow it to cool until it can be handled comfortably.
- Use a spatula to shape the fudge into a log, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped fudge in the freezer for 20 minutes to set.
- Once set, slice the fudge into pieces of your desired size and serve. Enjoy!