Tim’s Favorite Tradition – Fudge

It would not be Christmastime at the Kimmel house without several batches of this great fudge recipe. When our kids were younger and you could still bring homemade gifts to their teachers, this was a much requested treat. It was fun to find a pretty tin or glass jar and fill it full of this chocolate lover’s delight. This is also a recipe that Tim loves to make with me. He is not much of a cook, but when it comes time to make fudge, he volunteers readily to stir the mixture. Much like our heavenly reward when we persevere, his is waiting at the end when he gets to lick the spoon and scrape out the pan. This year, our first batch was made on Thanksgiving weekend. And the battle of the bulge began. The good thing about this fudge is that one small piece is usually very satisfying. The bad thing about this fudge is that it is addictive and it is hard to get it out of your mind when you know there is a tin full of it in the fridge. I know there is a spiritual lesson in there somewhere but my mind is foggy just thinking about the wonderful, chocolate nirvana awaiting me. Last Christmas I taught my new daughter in law Lauren how to make this fudge which is one of Cody’s favorite goodies. So here it is. I hope it becomes a favorite in your home as well.

Darcy’s Fudge Recipe

• 4 1/2 cups of sugar
• 18 ounces of chocolate chips
• 4 teaspoons of vanilla
• 1 large can of evaporated milk
• 10 ounces of marshmallows
• 1/2 pound of butter
• 2 cups of chopped nuts (optional)

Mix milk and sugar and bring to a rolling boil for 10 minutes, remove from heat. Add chocolate chips, butter, marshmallows and vanilla into hot mixture and stir until melted and smooth. Add nuts if desired. Pour into buttered pans and cool. Makes 5 pounds of fudge.