Is your fudge too thin? No need to worry, there is a quick and simple way to thicken any fudge. Read on for how to fix thin fudge and for tips on how to avoid it in the first place.
Fudge sauce goes on so many amazing desserts. It is rich and decadent but what do you do when the consistency is too thin?
No need to throw your fudge out, with the method I am going to show you, thin fudge can be thickened up quick and easy without altering the flavor too much.
I am often asked whether thin fudge can be thickened and I am pleased to say that it’s not only possible, it’s ridiculously easy once you know how!
And if you want to find out why your fudge is thin, I will let you know the most common causes down below.
Now, let’s get to it!
How To Fix Thin Fudge
Part of the homemade fudge making process is allowing it to harden but for a few different reasons that doesn’t always happen.
The best way to thicken thin fudge is to return it to the sauce pan and bring it back up to temperature.
Use a candy thermometer to ensure it reaches the high end of the recommended temp for your recipe.
That should be enough to fix a thin batch of fudge. But if you are still having an issue with your fudge thickening then use the following method.
Read more on how to soften hard fudge
Thicken Fudge with Powdered Sugar or Cornstarch
So you already tried heating your fudge back up but it did not set properly? Don’t worry, it can happen to the best of us. That just means it’s time to bring in a thickening agent.
The most popular one to use for fudge is powdered sugar.
Start by adding about one tablespoon of powdered sugar to your fudge and then combine. Add more powdered sugar one tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Keep in mind that powdered sugar will increase the sweetness of your fudge. But how do you thicken your fudge if you don’t want to make it any sweeter?
That’s when we use cornstarch. Cornstarch is a very common thickening agent and it works well fixing thin fudge.
Similar to powdered sugar, add one tablespoon of cornstarch at a time while combining until the desired thickness is achieved.
And that’s all there is to fixing any thin batch of fudge!
For a little extra credit let’s dive into the most common causes for your fudge turning out too thin.
Why Is My Fudge Thin?
So there are a number of reasons your fudge didn’t turn out thick. And like with most baking and desserts, it all comes down to the details.
Check out these common mistakes that lead to thin fudge so all your future batches will turn out perfectly.
Not Heated Up to the Right Temperature
Many people new to making fudge don’t heat it up to the right temperature. No matter what recipe you are using, there is a recommended temp you need to bring your fudge to when preparing it.
You must have a quality candy thermometer to accurately read your temperature. Don’t guestimate!
If you don’t have a candy thermometer, get one before making your next batch of fudge.
Using Incorrect Ingredients
There are tons of fudge recipes out there and it is very important to use the ingredients your recipe calls for.
While it is possible to substitute some ingredients, you really need to know your stuff for your fudge to turn out as intended.
If you are out of an ingredient and are not one hundred percent certain what can properly be substituted then wait to make your fudge until you can get the proper ingredients.
Improper Measurements
Whenever you are baking, proper ingredient measurements and ratios are incredibly important. When you make a batch of fudge you MUST measure your ingredients carefully.
As they say, cooking is an art while baking is a science.
If your measurements are off you can be certain that your fudge will not turn out the best it can be.
Not Following Your Recipe
Let’s face it, some people like winging things. And that can lead to some unexpected and exciting results in many facets of life. But when it comes to making fudge, you want to follow your recipe exactly.
This ties into our other common fudge making mistakes, but it is no less important. Read your recipe before you begin making your fudge and be certain you not only have all the needed ingredients, also that you prepare your fudge using the proper steps.
This also means that you need to use the recommended equipment. Don’t wing it and your fudge will probably be close to perfect every time!
Not Properly Setting Your Fudge
Allowing your fudge to set is one of the most important steps in the process but it is the most commonly rushed.
Fudge requires time to set so patience is key! If you do not allow your fudge to set it will be thin and runny. And no one like thin and runny fudge.
Most recipes will note how to set your fudge but there is a universal method no matter what recipe you are following.
Cover your fudge and place it in your refrigerator for at least eight hours (doing overnight can help combat the urge to rush the setting process).
This should be enough time for any recipe, but keep in mind that you really can’t wait too long. The key to setting your fudge is to start making your fudge far enough in advance that you can let it fully set before serving.
I also get asked regularly if you can set fudge in the freezer. You should avoid this. It often leads to uneven results due to most household freezer’s temperature variation.
For this reason I recommend setting your fudge in the fridge.
If you are in a real hurry though, you can chance it in the freezer. In this case be sure it’s fully covered and placed in the back of the freezer for at least three hours.
Do not open your freezer at all once your fudge is inside.
Bottom Line
The key to making thick delicious fudge ultimately comes down to patience and attention to detail.
Follow your recipe and allow your fudge enough time to set and you will be enjoying wonderful homemade fudge in no time.
If you do find yourself facing a batch of thin fudge in need of thickening, follow my simple methods above.