Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, velvety texture of dark chocolate paired with the satisfying crunch of almonds
- Easy to make with just a few ingredients
- Perfect for gifting or serving at parties and gatherings
- Can be customized with your favorite nuts or toppings
- Naturally gluten-free and a great option for those who love dark chocolate
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 12 oz (about 2 cups) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk (or use coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup whole almonds (or chopped almonds if preferred)
- Optional: 2 tablespoons powdered sugar or maple syrup (for added sweetness, if desired)
Directions
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil, allowing a bit of overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the paper or foil.
- Melt the chocolate: In a medium saucepan, combine the dark chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk (or coconut milk), and cocoa powder. Stir over low heat until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add flavor: Stir in the vanilla extract and salt, mixing until smooth. If you’d like the fudge to be sweeter, add powdered sugar or maple syrup to taste.
- Mix in almonds: Fold in the whole almonds (or chopped almonds, if you prefer smaller pieces) into the fudge mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Set the fudge: Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
- Chill: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2-3 hours, or until fully set and firm.
- Serve: Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper or foil overhang. Cut into small squares or rectangles and serve.
Servings and timing
- Makes about 16-20 small pieces
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Chill time: 2-3 hours
Variations
- Nut variations: Use other nuts such as walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts for a different flavor and texture.
- Salted fudge: Sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the fudge before chilling for a sweet-salty combination.
- Add-ins: Stir in dried fruit, like cranberries or cherries, for an added tartness.
- Vegan version: Use dairy-free condensed milk or coconut milk, and make sure the dark chocolate is dairy-free.
- Minty fudge: Add a few drops of peppermint extract for a minty twist to the fudge.
Storage/reheating
- Store leftover fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 weeks.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the fudge for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- This fudge is best served chilled, as it holds its shape better and has a firmer texture.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but it will make the fudge sweeter. Dark chocolate is recommended for a richer flavor, especially if you prefer a balance between the sweetness and bitterness of chocolate.
Can I use another type of milk besides condensed milk?
Yes, you can use regular milk, coconut milk, or even almond milk, but keep in mind that sweetened condensed milk gives the fudge its creamy texture and sweetness. If using another milk, you may need to adjust the sweetness.
Can I make this fudge without nuts?
Yes, you can make this fudge without nuts. Just skip the almonds or replace them with any other add-ins you like, such as chocolate chips or dried fruit.
How do I know when the fudge is set?
The fudge should be firm to the touch and no longer soft or runny. You can also insert a toothpick to check that it doesn’t come out wet or sticky.
How do I make the fudge extra smooth?
For a smoother texture, make sure to melt the chocolate slowly over low heat, and stir continuously. You can also use a hand blender or immersion blender to smooth out the mixture after melting for an even creamier result.
Conclusion
Dark Chocolate Fudge with Almonds is a rich, satisfying dessert that’s both simple to make and irresistibly delicious. The combination of smooth dark chocolate, creamy sweetened condensed milk, and crunchy almonds creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering, gifting it to friends, or enjoying it as a sweet treat at home, this fudge is sure to be a hit!
PrintDark Chocolate Fudge with Almonds
Dark Chocolate Fudge with Almonds is a rich and decadent treat made with smooth dark chocolate and crunchy almonds. Perfect for chocolate lovers, this fudge offers a perfect balance of sweetness, bitterness, and crunch. Ideal for gifting, celebrations, or a sweet indulgence.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2-3 hours (for chilling)
- Yield: Makes about 16-20 small pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 12 oz (about 2 cups) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk (or use coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup whole almonds (or chopped almonds if preferred)
- Optional: 2 tablespoons powdered sugar or maple syrup (for added sweetness, if desired)
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil, allowing a bit of overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the paper or foil.
- Melt the chocolate: In a medium saucepan, combine the dark chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk (or coconut milk), and cocoa powder. Stir over low heat until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add flavor: Stir in the vanilla extract and salt, mixing until smooth. If you’d like the fudge to be sweeter, add powdered sugar or maple syrup to taste.
- Mix in almonds: Fold in the whole almonds (or chopped almonds, if you prefer smaller pieces) into the fudge mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Set the fudge: Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
- Chill: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2-3 hours, or until fully set and firm.
- Serve: Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper or foil overhang. Cut into small squares or rectangles and serve.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute coconut milk for sweetened condensed milk and ensure your dark chocolate is dairy-free.
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a salted fudge variation.
- For more flavor, you can add dried fruits like cranberries or cherries.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg