National Fudge Day is celebrated annually on June 16th in the United States, and it is a day dedicated to honoring one of the most beloved sweet treats—fudge. Known for its rich, creamy texture and sweet flavor, fudge comes in many varieties, including classic chocolate, peanut butter, maple, and more. On National Fudge Day, people across the country enjoy this indulgent confection by either making it at home or buying it from their favorite candy shops.

History of Fudge

Fudge is believed to have been invented in the late 19th century, although its exact origins are somewhat disputed. One popular story is that fudge was the result of a happy accident when a batch of caramels was "fudged" or mistakenly overcooked. The result was a new, delicious confection that quickly gained popularity.

By the late 1800s, fudge recipes began appearing in women's magazines and college dormitories, especially among female students at East Coast colleges. It became a popular treat at Vassar College, where one of the first written recipes for fudge is believed to have originated. From there, the confection spread across the country, with different regions developing their own unique fudge recipes and flavors.

What is Fudge?

Fudge is a soft, sweet candy that is typically made by heating sugar, butter, and milk to the soft-ball stage (around 240°F) and then beating the mixture until it cools and solidifies. It is often flavored with chocolate, vanilla, or other ingredients and can be mixed with nuts, dried fruits, or other add-ins. The end result is a smooth, dense candy that can be cut into squares or other shapes.

Popular Varieties of Fudge

• Chocolate Fudge: The most common and classic flavor, made with cocoa or chocolate chips.
• Peanut Butter Fudge: Made with creamy peanut butter, this variety has a smooth, nutty flavor.
• Maple Fudge: A regional favorite, particularly in New England and Canada, made with maple syrup.
• Rocky Road Fudge: This variety includes nuts and marshmallows mixed into chocolate fudge.
• Vanilla Fudge: A lighter, less rich option that is flavored with vanilla extract instead of chocolate.
• Salted Caramel Fudge: A blend of sweet and salty flavors, combining caramel and a hint of sea salt.

How to Celebrate National Fudge Day

1. Make Homemade Fudge: National Fudge Day is the perfect excuse to try your hand at making fudge at home. Basic fudge recipes are relatively simple, requiring just a few ingredients like sugar, butter, milk, and chocolate. You can also get creative by adding your favorite mix-ins, such as nuts, dried fruit, or candy pieces.

2. Visit a Local Candy Shop: Many candy shops and fudge specialty stores offer a wide variety of fudge flavors. On National Fudge Day, treat yourself to some fresh, artisanal fudge from a local shop or chocolatier. Some places even have live demonstrations of fudge-making, especially in tourist towns.

3. Host a Fudge-Tasting Party: Invite friends and family over for a fudge-tasting party where everyone can bring a different type of fudge to sample. This is a fun way to explore a variety of flavors and textures.

4. Gift Fudge to Loved Ones: Fudge makes a delightful homemade gift. Wrap up some homemade fudge in decorative packaging and share it with friends, neighbors, or coworkers to spread the sweetness of the day.

5. Learn the Art of Fudge-Making: Some cities and towns have fudge-making workshops or classes where you can learn the traditional methods of making fudge. It’s a fun and educational way to spend National Fudge Day.

Fun Facts About Fudge

• Fudge is a staple in tourist destinations: Fudge is a popular treat in many vacation spots, especially in places like Mackinac Island, Michigan, which is famous for its fudge shops. The term "fudgies" is sometimes used to describe tourists who flock to the island to buy fudge.
• Fudge has scientific principles: Making fudge is not just about mixing ingredients; it’s about achieving the right crystalline structure to ensure a smooth, creamy texture. The sugar must be heated to a precise temperature and then cooled and beaten to prevent large sugar crystals from forming, which can make the fudge grainy.
• The fudge record: The largest slab of fudge ever made weighed more than 5,760 pounds! It was made in Ontario, Canada, in 2010 and set a Guinness World Record for the largest fudge.
• Fudge in Pop Culture: Fudge often makes appearances in movies and TV shows, and it's one of the most popular confections in holiday-themed baking shows.

Famous Fudge Destinations

• Mackinac Island, Michigan: Known as the "fudge capital of the world," Mackinac Island is home to numerous fudge shops that create handcrafted fudge in a variety of flavors. The island has been producing fudge since the late 19th century, and it remains one of its biggest tourist attractions.

• Atlantic City, New Jersey: Fudge is a common treat in seaside towns, and Atlantic City is no exception. Many boardwalk candy shops sell fudge alongside other treats like saltwater taffy.

• Savannah, Georgia: Savannah is known for its Southern confections, and fudge is one of the many sweets that you can find in its charming downtown shops.

Fudge-Making Tips

1. Use a Candy Thermometer: One of the most important tools in fudge-making is a candy thermometer. This ensures that the sugar mixture reaches the correct temperature (soft-ball stage) without overcooking.

2. Avoid Over-Stirring: Once the mixture has reached the correct temperature, it’s important not to stir it too much while it’s cooling. Over-stirring can lead to grainy fudge.

3. Be Patient with Cooling: Allowing the fudge mixture to cool to the right temperature before beating is crucial to getting that smooth, creamy texture. Rushing this step can result in fudge that doesn't set properly.

4. Experiment with Flavors: Fudge is highly versatile, and you can easily experiment with different flavors and add-ins. Try swirling in caramel, layering different flavors, or adding crushed cookies or candy pieces for a unique twist.

5. Store Fudge Properly: Fudge can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two weeks, or it can be frozen for up to three months. Make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out.

Conclusion

National Fudge Day is a celebration of a classic and beloved dessert that has been enjoyed for over a century. Whether you prefer it chocolatey, nutty, or with a touch of salt, there’s a type of fudge for everyone. So on June 16th, indulge in this rich and creamy treat by making, sharing, or simply enjoying a piece of fudge with friends and family.