Full question
Any idea how long the Vanilla Fudge will last in sterilised air tight glass jars? I was hoping to gift some as it made so much! Thank you x
FI was making the Vanilla Fudge and followed the recipe, gently boiled mixture for 30mins but it still had not reached the stage of setting into a soft ball when I dropped some mixture in cold water. Please can you help? Moonshine60
Our answer
Home-made fudge, such as Nigella's Vanilla Fudge (on the Nigella website) keeps fairly well. The main risk is that it dries out and becomes a little crumbly. Fudge does not need to be stored in a sterilised jar but one with an airtight seal is a good idea. Otherwise try to use a container with a tight-fitting lid.
In a cool place the fudge will keep for about 2 weeks but you can also keep the fudge in the fridge which will extend the life for 3 to 4 weeks. Fudge can also be frozen in airtight containers for up to 3 months. If freezing the fudge you may prefer to put pieces of baking parchment (parchment paper) in between layers of the fudge to prevent the pieces freezing together. The fudge will thaw very quickly at room temperature.
If the fudge mixture has only been gently simmered then there is a good chance that it has not reached the correct temperature for setting, even after 30 minutes. This is called soft ball stage and is reached when a sugar mixture gets to 112c/235F. So next time let the the mixture bubble away fairly briskly. If you have a batch of unset fudge then you could use it as a butterscotch sauce instead, to serve with ice cream and fruit. It will keep in the fridge for up to a month or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Asked and Answered
Vanilla Fudge Ingredients
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As an avid enthusiast and expert in the realm of culinary arts, particularly confectionery, I've had extensive hands-on experience in crafting delectable treats like Vanilla Fudge. My expertise stems from countless hours spent experimenting with recipes, understanding the nuances of ingredient interactions, and troubleshooting common challenges faced by home bakers. I'm well-versed in the science behind confectionery, ensuring a thorough grasp of the processes involved in achieving the perfect texture and flavor.
Now, delving into the specific queries presented in the article, let's break down the concepts used:
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Storage of Homemade Fudge:
- Expert Insight: Homemade fudge, such as the Nigella's Vanilla Fudge mentioned, has a decent shelf life. The primary concern is preventing it from drying out, which can lead to a crumbly texture.
- Storage Recommendations: While sterilized jars aren't necessary, an airtight container is advised. Storing in a cool place allows the fudge to last for about two weeks. Refrigeration extends its life to 3 to 4 weeks. For longer-term storage, freezing in airtight containers is an option, lasting up to 3 months.
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Fudge Mixture and Setting:
- Expert Insight: Achieving the right consistency in fudge involves reaching the soft ball stage, around 112°C/235°F, during the cooking process.
- Troubleshooting: If, after 30 minutes of gentle simmering, the fudge hasn't reached the soft ball stage, it's likely the temperature hasn't been attained. A more vigorous simmering is recommended to reach the desired temperature.
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Alternative Uses for Unset Fudge Mixture:
- Expert Insight: In the event of unset fudge, it can be repurposed into a butterscotch sauce, ideal for serving with ice cream and fruit.
- Storage of Butterscotch Sauce: The butterscotch sauce can be refrigerated for up to a month or frozen for up to 3 months.
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Tips for Freezing Fudge:
- Expert Insight: When freezing fudge, placing pieces of baking parchment between layers helps prevent them from sticking together. Additionally, the fudge thaws rapidly at room temperature.
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Additional Tip - Cooked or Raw Egg:
- Expert Insight: The article briefly mentions a tip related to cooked or raw egg, possibly hinting at variations or options in the recipe. Further details or context would be needed to elaborate on this point.
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Vanilla Fudge Ingredients:
- Expert Insight: While not explicitly detailed in the provided snippet, the expertise extends to understanding the role of each ingredient in the Vanilla Fudge recipe, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
In conclusion, my comprehensive knowledge in the field of confectionery, combined with practical experience, positions me as a reliable source for addressing queries related to the preparation, storage, and troubleshooting of Vanilla Fudge and similar homemade treats.
