Vegan Freezer Fudge

Vegan fudge can sometimes be a bit of a headache. In striving to create a recipe that perfectly replicates the chalky texture of traditional fudge, you end up using a lot of hard to find, expensive ingredients. This recipe for Vegan Freezer Fudge gives you an out. It has great, rich, chocolatey flavor but a much chewier texture. While it isn't a perfect match for regular fudge, it IS super easy to assemble and can be made using cheap, easy to find ingredients.

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Vegan Freezer Fudge Ingredients

For Sweetened Condensed Milk

• Cornstarch (1 tbsp): Cornstarch is a thickening agent. It helps to give the final product its thick and creamy consistency. This is important for the texture of the condensed milk, making it similar to the commercial varieties.
• Nondairy Milk (1 cup): Nondairy milk serves as the base liquid for the sweetened condensed milk. It provides moisture and helps dissolve the sugar.
• Vegan Butter (1 tbsp): Vegan butter adds a small amount of fat and creaminess to the sweetened condensed milk, helping with general richness.
• Sugar (½ cup): When making sweetened condensed milk, sugar not only sweetens the mixture but also plays a role in thickening the milk. The sugar helps to create a dense and syrupy consistency.
• Vanilla Extract (½ tsp): Vanilla extract adds flavor and depth to the sweetened condensed milk. It enhances the overall taste, providing a subtle vanilla note that complements various recipes.

For the Fudge

• Nondairy Chocolate Chips (3 cups, semisweet): Nondairy chocolate chips are the primary ingredient in fudge, providing the rich chocolate flavor and smooth texture. Choosing semisweet chocolate chips also ensures a balanced sweetness in the fudge.
• Vegan Sweetened Condensed Milk (1 ¼ cups - from the recipe above): The vegan sweetened condensed milk acts as a sweetener and binder for the fudge. It contributes sweetness and helps to achieve the dense, fudgy texture.
• Salt (¼ teaspoon): Salt is a crucial ingredient in sweet recipes as it enhances and balances flavors. In fudge, even a small amount of salt can bring out the richness of the chocolate and also counterbalance the sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract (2 tsp): Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the fudge, providing a warm and aromatic undertone. It complements the chocolate, adding a subtle complexity to the sweetness.

Steps for Making Vegan Freezer Fudge (with pictures!)

1. Make Cornstarch Slurry: Take ¼ c of the nondairy milk and drop in the cornstarch. Whisk vigorously until all of the cornstarch is dissolved. Set aside.
2. Make Sweetened Condensed Milk: Combine remaining nondairy milk, sugar and vegan butter in a small saucepan. Heat whisking frequently until the sugar is completely dissolved. Pour in the cornstarch slurry slowly, whisking the whole time. Continue to simmer on medium-low for 10 minutes or until mixture thickens and resembles traditional sweetened condensed milk. Remove from heat and whisk in the vanilla. Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a sealable jar and chilling in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
3. Melt the Chocolate: Add nondairy chocolate chips, all of the prepared sweetened condensed milk and salt to a saucepan. Heat on stove over medium-low, whisking frequently. Continue heating until the chocolate is completely melted and no small chunks remain. Remove from heat and whisk in the vanilla. Stir in the chopped nuts if using. 
4. Chill: Line an 8-inch square pan with tinfoil. Pour chocolate mixture into prepared pan and smooth out using a rubber spatula. Cover pan with more tinfoil and place in the refrigerator to chill for 2 hours. 
5. Freeze: Remove pan from the fridge and pull the fudge out of the pan using the sides of the tinfoil. Peel foil off of the fudge and place it back in the pan. Set the fudge on a cutting board and but into 36 equal-sized pieces using a sharp knife. Set individual pieces back into the pan. Fudge will feel rubbery at this time. Re-cover pan and place in the freezer for 2 hours or overnight.
6. Serve: Remove pan from freezer when you’re ready to serve. Leftover fudge should be kept in the freezer to maintain texture.

Tips for Making Vegan Freezer Fudge

Making vegan freezer fudge is a pretty straightforward process. Here are some tips to help you create a delicious batch:

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality nondairy chocolate chips and vegan sweetened condensed milk. The quality of your ingredients will significantly impact the final taste and texture of the fudge.
2. Prepare a Good Base: Ensure your vegan sweetened condensed milk is well-prepared, with the right balance of sweetness and thickness. This will serve as the base for your fudge.
3. Line the Pan: Line your pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving an overhang on the sides. This makes it easier to lift the fudge out of the pan for cutting later.
4. Melt Chocolate Gently: Melt the chocolate chips gently to avoid scorching. Keep the saucepan of ingredients at a low to medium-low heat whisking continuously.
5. Add Mix-Ins if Desired: Consider adding nuts, dried fruits, or other favorite mix-ins to add texture and flavor to your fudge.
6. Evenly Spread in the Pan: Spread the fudge mixture evenly in the prepared pan to ensure a consistent texture throughout.
7. Chill Well Before Cutting: Allow the fudge to chill for several hours or until it's completely set. This ensures a firm texture that is easy to cut into neat squares.
8. Experiment with Flavors: Get creative with flavors by adding extracts, spices, or flavored extracts to customize your fudge. Mint, almond, or orange extracts can also add a unique twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any type of nondairy chocolate chips for vegan freezer fudge?

Yes, you can use any high-quality nondairy chocolate chips, such as semisweet or dark chocolate, as long as they are labeled as vegan. Make sure to check the ingredient list to ensure there are no dairy-derived additives.

Can I substitute homemade vegan sweetened condensed milk with store-bought versions?

Yes, you can use store-bought vegan sweetened condensed milk as a time-saving alternative. Just ensure that it's a suitable substitute for the homemade version and also provides the desired sweetness and thickness. 1 14oz can will be the perfect size for this recipe.

How long should I chill the fudge in the freezer?

It's recommended to chill the fudge in the freezer for at least 2-3 hours, or until it is completely set. This ensures a firm texture that is easy to cut into neat squares.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the fudge?

Absolutely! Adding nuts, dried fruits, or other mix-ins can enhance the texture and flavor of your fudge. Simply fold them into the fudge mixture before spreading it in the pan.

FAQ's Continued

Can I store vegan freezer fudge in the refrigerator instead of the freezer?

While you can store fudge in the refrigerator for a shorter period, the freezer is recommended for longer storage. The fudge stays firmer and maintains its texture better in the freezer.

Can I customize the flavor of the fudge?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different extracts, spices, or flavored extracts to customize the flavor of your fudge. To illustrate, popular choices include mint, almond, or orange extracts.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe itself is gluten-free, but it's crucial to check the labels of your ingredients, especially the nondairy chocolate chips, to ensure they do not contain any gluten or traces of gluten.

How do I prevent the fudge from sticking to the pan?

Line the pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving an overhang on the sides. This makes it easier to lift the fudge out of the pan for cutting, and it prevents sticking.

How to Serve Vegan Freezer Fudge

Serving vegan freezer fudge is a delightful experience, and there are several ways to present and enjoy this sweet treat. Here are some suggestions on how to serve vegan freezer fudge:

1. Cut into Bite-Sized Squares: After the fudge has set in the freezer, remove it and cut it into bite-sized squares. This makes it easy for guests to grab and enjoy.
2. Garnish with Nuts, Shredded Coconut, Flaky Sea Salt: Sprinkle chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or other toppings on top of the fudge squares for added texture and visual appeal.
3. Serve on a Platter or Tray: Arrange the cut fudge squares on a serving platter or tray. This makes for an attractive presentation, especially if you're serving the fudge at a gathering or party.
4. Pair with Fresh Fruit: Serve the fudge with slices of fresh fruit such as strawberries, raspberries, or orange segments. The fruity flavors also complement the richness of the fudge.
5. Wrap for Gifts: Package individual pieces of fudge in decorative wrapping or small boxes to give as thoughtful and tasty gifts.

Whether you're enjoying vegan freezer fudge on its own or incorporating it into a dessert spread, these serving suggestions can enhance the overall experience for you and others.

How to Store Vegan Freezer Fudge

Storing vegan freezer fudge properly is crucial to maintain its freshness, texture, and flavor. Here's how to store vegan freezer fudge:

1. Airtight Container: After cutting the fudge into squares, place them in an airtight container. This helps prevent the absorption of odors from the freezer and also minimizes the risk of freezer burn.
2. Parchment Paper Layers: Place parchment paper between layers of fudge to prevent them from sticking together. This also makes it easier to remove individual pieces when you want to enjoy them.
3. Label and Date: Label the container with the type of fudge and the date it was made. To explain, this helps you keep track of the different flavors and ensures you consume the fudge within a reasonable timeframe.
4. Freezer-Safe Bag: Alternatively, you can use a resealable freezer-safe plastic bag to store the fudge. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
5. Individual Wrapping: Wrap individual pieces of fudge in plastic wrap or wax paper before placing them in the container or bag. This adds an extra layer of protection against freezer burn and helps maintain freshness.
6. Consume Within a Month: While vegan freezer fudge can stay fresh for several months, it's best to consume it within a month for optimal taste and texture.
7. Check for Freezer Burn: Periodically check the stored fudge for any signs of freezer burn, such as ice crystals or changes in color. If you notice freezer burn, trim off the affected areas before serving.

By following these storage tips, you can ensure that your vegan freezer fudge remains delicious and enjoyable for an extended period.

Please remember if you make this recipe to snap a pic and share with @censoredbaker on instagram!

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