Old-Fashioned Black Walnut Fudge in a Cast Iron Skillet

There’s something undeniably special about old-fashioned recipes, don’t you think? This Old-Fashioned Black Walnut Fudge in a Cast Iron Skillet is one of those desserts that takes you straight back to simpler times, where every bite felt like a little piece of nostalgia. Picture this: rich, velvety fudge with the perfect balance of sweetness, and then the unmistakable crunch and earthy flavor of black walnuts—does it get any better? Trust me, you’re going to love this one. It’s a bit like a hug in candy form, with that warm, homemade charm that always wins over hearts and tastebuds alike.

Whether you’re whipping this up for a cozy family treat, a weekend indulgence, or a special occasion, this recipe will be the star of the show. Don’t worry about any complicated techniques or high-end ingredients—this one is all about taking it slow, savoring every step, and letting the magic happen.

So, grab your cast iron skillet, and let’s get cooking. This one’s a game-changer!

Why You’ll Love Old-Fashioned Black Walnut Fudge in a Cast Iron Skillet

This fudge is more than just a dessert; it’s a conversation starter and a crowd-pleaser. Here’s why it’s worth making:

Versatile

This fudge is perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy night at home, a holiday gathering, or a sweet gift for a friend. It’s a classic that fits right in, no matter the season. Imagine handing out pieces wrapped up with care, and watching people’s faces light up with joy when they take that first bite.

Budget-Friendly

You don’t need to break the bank to make this fudge! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a rich, indulgent treat that tastes far more expensive than it actually is. You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry, and the star of the show—those black walnuts—are worth every penny!

Quick and Easy

While making fudge might sound a little intimidating, this recipe keeps things simple and straightforward. The best part? It’s made in a cast iron skillet, which means you don’t need a ton of equipment or fancy tools. It’s easy enough for beginners to follow, and it comes together surprisingly fast.

Customizable

Feel free to make this fudge your own. If you’re not into black walnuts, you can swap them out for any other nut you like. Want an extra layer of flavor? A splash of vanilla or a pinch of sea salt could take this fudge to a whole new level.

Crowd-Pleasing

I promise, this fudge is a guaranteed hit with everyone—kids, adults, and anyone with a sweet tooth. The combination of creamy fudge with those crunchy black walnuts? It’s irresistible. Trust me, it’ll be the first thing to disappear at any gathering.

Ingredients in Old-Fashioned Black Walnut Fudge

Let’s talk ingredients. This fudge comes together with just a few pantry staples, but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Sugar: The base of your fudge, giving it that signature sweetness and silky texture.
• Butter: Adding that rich, creamy flavor that’s absolutely essential for any good fudge.
• Evaporated Milk: For a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth finish.
• Black Walnuts: The real hero of this recipe. Their bold, earthy flavor gives the fudge its signature crunch and depth.
• Vanilla Extract: A dash of this will bring out all the flavors and add a warm, comforting note.
• A pinch of Salt: To balance out the sweetness and enhance all the other flavors.

(Note: The full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this mouthwatering fudge:

Preheat Your Skillet

Start by placing your cast iron skillet on the stovetop over medium heat. It’s essential to use a skillet because it helps distribute the heat evenly, giving your fudge that perfect, smooth consistency.

Melt the Butter and Sugar

Once your skillet is heated, add the butter and sugar, stirring constantly. You want to melt the butter into the sugar until it becomes a smooth, creamy mixture. This step is crucial for achieving that velvety fudge texture, so don’t rush!

Add Evaporated Milk

Next, pour in the evaporated milk and bring everything to a gentle boil. Keep stirring to ensure everything combines beautifully. Once it’s bubbling, lower the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, continuing to stir. You’ll start to notice the mixture thickening, and that’s your cue to move on to the next step.

Stir in the Walnuts

Now, it’s time to add in those delicious black walnuts! Stir them in thoroughly, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the fudge. The walnuts bring that irresistible crunch and earthy flavor that make this fudge unforgettable.

Bring it All Together

Continue cooking and stirring for another 3-4 minutes until the fudge has thickened up nicely. It should look glossy and smooth, with a slight pull when you lift your spoon. Once it’s just right, remove the skillet from the heat.

Cool and Set

Pour the fudge mixture into a greased pan or a piece of parchment paper-lined baking dish. Let it cool at room temperature for about 1-2 hours, or until set. It’s hard, but try not to sneak a piece just yet—it’s totally worth the wait!

Slice and Enjoy

Once the fudge is set, slice it into squares and serve. Watch it disappear in seconds!

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Black Walnut Fudge

This fudge is best enjoyed on its own, but if you’re looking to elevate the experience, here are a few ideas:

• Serve with a Hot Drink: A cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate is the perfect pairing to balance out the richness of the fudge.
• Pair with Ice Cream: For a decadent dessert, serve a few squares alongside a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream.
• Gift-Worthy: Package up your fudge in a cute box or tin and share the love with family and friends. It’s the kind of homemade treat that everyone will cherish.

Additional Tips

• Prep Ahead: If you’re short on time, you can make this fudge a day or two in advance. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Store in the Right Way: Keep leftover fudge in an airtight container for up to a week. It will stay fresh and delicious, but I doubt there will be leftovers!
• Go Easy on the Heat: When you’re cooking the fudge, be careful not to let it boil too vigorously. A gentle simmer is all you need to get that perfect texture.
• Add Extra Flavor: For a fun twist, try adding a bit of cocoa powder for a chocolate version, or sprinkle some sea salt on top for that sweet-salty contrast.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute black walnuts with regular walnuts?
A1: You sure can! Regular walnuts will still give your fudge a nice crunch, but black walnuts are truly unique in flavor and worth trying if you can find them.

Q2: Can I make this fudge ahead of time?
A2: Yes! In fact, it’s even better the next day after it’s had time to set and cool completely.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store any leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You could also freeze it for up to a month, though I doubt it’ll last that long!

Q4: Can I add other mix-ins to the fudge?
A4: Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, dried fruits, or even crushed candy canes for a festive touch.

Q5: How do I know when the fudge is done?
A5: It should be thick and glossy, with a slight pull when you lift your spoon. If in doubt, let it simmer for a few extra minutes!

Conclusion

There you have it—the perfect recipe for Old-Fashioned Black Walnut Fudge in a Cast Iron Skillet. This recipe combines the comforting tradition of homemade fudge with the bold flavor of black walnuts, making it a true treat for all the senses. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or savoring a piece after a long day, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles. So go ahead, make some today, and get ready to indulge in this cozy, timeless treat. Enjoy!

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