People who like having sugary snacks are often seen with fudge. Generally, fudge is made by heating sugar, cream or milk, and butter and is set to make the chewy snack. However, making fudge is not that easy because many people struggle with fudge not setting. So, if you have the same issue going on, we are sharing more details!
Why Is My Fudge Not Setting?
The fudge is made by heating it at a specific temperature, and all the mentioned ingredients are mixed up and cooled down. When it cools down, it is beaten to harden it up (this is the traditional way of making fudge). However, modern fudge recipes don’t include beating, and people can microwaves. For the most part, the fudge doesn’t set because it is not brought to the right temperature. Similarly, when you get it to the right temperature, it will ensure that the fudge sets properly. If the right temperature isn’t achieved, the fudge will remain gooey. Another reason behind the setting issue is the addition of too much milk because it results in a runny texture.
What To Do If Fudge Doesn’t Set
First of all, you need to scrape the fudge back into the heating hot and add more water until you achieve the runny mixture (1.5 cups is more than fine), but it also depends on the recipe. When you add water and it gets completely dissolved, you need to heat it at the medium heat temperature before it’s brought to boiling. It is suggested to bring it to 212-degrees Fahrenheit. You can also consult the recipe to see which temperature is suggested. When it comes down to boiling, you need to follow the same steps of cooling it down and beating it to take away the sheen.
When the material doesn’t look shiny anymore, you can add it to the pan and let it set. Then, put the dish at room temperature to let it cool down, and after that, you can put it in the refrigerator. If the fudge is still not set, the only thing you can do is reuse it. For instance, it can be used as a chocolate sauce for your midnight ice cream time, and it makes a great option for cupcakes and cake icing. Some people also use them to drizzle on the cookies as well as desserts. In simpler words, fudge that won’t set is basically thick pudding and chocolate sauce.
How To Avoid The Fudge Not Setting
If you are following the fudge recipe that includes condensed milk and marshmallows, there are low chances of the setting issue (yes, it will settle easily). This is because marshmallows add thickening effects, and condensed milk does the same. Similarly, when you put fudge into the refrigerator, it will thicken up easily. All in all, the old recipes have a higher chance of showing the setting issues, but the new recipes with different flavorings will optimize the setting.
So, are you ready to set the fudge now? If not, how will you reuse the fudge?