Chocolatey Christmas Goodness

Antique Mommy is hosting a blog carnival to showcase handmade/homemade Christmas gifts. I'm not the least bit creative or crafty, so I have made fudge for my neighbors for years. I usually get lots of compliments on it (which may say more about my cooking/baking than the quality of the fudge!).

However, one year after I delivered the fudge to my neighbors, I received a call from the children in one house. They asked if I had more fudge. When I said yes, they came for a second batch. Out of curiosity I asked what happened to the first batch. Their housekeeper had come that day and eaten the entire thing! No one in the family got a piece! So, at least we know the empty calories are good energy for vacuuming.

I use the recipe right off the jar of Kraft marshmallow creme. I do have a few tips though.

1. Use a candy thermometer on your saucepan and heat the butter, evaporated milk and sugar to EXACTLY 234 degrees.
2. Stir constantly, it scorches easily.
3. Use real vanilla, no imitation.
4. I also use 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips, because I keep these on hand and they melt easily.
5. I put the fudge in a glass pan that is 8 1/2 by 11.

My biggest tip is to make the fudge and deliver it EARLY in December. I usually make it the weekend after Thanksgiving. I think that giving it early means your friends will be able to enjoy it before the onslaught of Christmas parties and excesses. Also, fudge lasts a long time and freezes well.

I cut the fudge into 1 inch cubes and wrap in wax paper using Scotch tape to seal it. I also use cut wax paper between the layers of pieces (see pic below). Then I deliver it in a cute tin from the Dollar Store. Make sure to save a few pieces for your house too!

Here is the recipe (copied right from the jar):

Heat in a saucepan to 234 degrees, stirring constantly:

3/4 c. butter

3 cups sugar

5 oz. evaporated milk

Remove from heat and add:

2 cups of chocolate chips

1 jar of marshmallow creme

Stir well and finish with:

1 tsp. vanilla

1 cup of chopped nuts, if desired

My little nutcracker...

Check out more ideas at Antique Mommy.

http://antiquemommy.com/2008/11/24/homemade-handmade-holiday-carnival/