We love how our Moonshine Fudge recipe unites smooth chocolate with the bold kick of homemade spirits. It’s a sweet indulgence that delights those who crave an adventurous twist on a classic dessert.
Moonshine has its roots in old Appalachian traditions so we’ve embraced its rebellious charm to craft something unforgettable. We pair this beloved liquor with silky melted chocolate and a hint of sweetness that makes every bite pop.
Moonshine Fudge Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 ounces)
- ¼ cup moonshine
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Time & Temperature
| Stage | Temperature | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Melting | Low heat | 5 minutes |
| Cooling in pan | Room temp | 10 minutes |
| Chilling in fridge | None | 2 hours |
- Prepare an 8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and smooth the paper along the sides.
- Combine the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a heavy saucepan.
- Melt over low heat and stir frequently to prevent scorching.
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter until it melts.
- Add the moonshine and mix until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and level the surface with a spatula.
- Let the fudge rest for 10 minutes at room temp.
- Chill it in the fridge for 2 hours or until firm.
- Slice into squares and enjoy a bold burst of moonshine flavor with each bite.
Ingredients
We gather these items to make our moonshine fudge smooth and velvety. We measure them precisely to maintain accurate taste and texture. We keep the moonshine at room temperature to help everything blend evenly.
- 12 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 14 ounces of sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup of moonshine
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter softened
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt (optional)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional)
Below is a quick reference for each component:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Semi-sweet chocolate chips | 12 oz | Silky chocolate base |
| Sweetened condensed milk | 14 oz | Thick binding agent |
| Moonshine | 1/4 cup | Bold flavor infusion |
| Unsalted butter softened | 2 tbsp | Extra creaminess |
| Salt (optional) | 1/2 tsp | Heightens sweet and savory nuances |
| Vanilla extract (optional) | 1 tsp | Subtle aromatic layer |
We place the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl and we keep the butter softened. We set the sweetened condensed milk within reach. We stir the ingredients in the order listed to ensure an even blend. We reserve salt and vanilla extract as optional enhancements.
Tools And Equipment
We gather a few essential materials to perfect our Moonshine Fudge recipe. We rely on a heavy-bottomed saucepan for steady heating and a silicone spatula for smooth stirring. We assemble measuring cups and spoons for precise portions of chocolate, milk, and moonshine. We also keep a parchment-lined baking dish ready for effortless release after chilling.
| Tool | Use |
|---|---|
| Heavy-bottomed saucepan | Maintains even heat and prevents scorching |
| Silicone spatula | Allows thorough mixing and scraping |
| Measuring cups and spoons | Ensures accurate ingredient measurements |
| Parchment-lined baking dish | Shapes the fudge and allows easy removal |
Prep Steps
We gather our ingredients and utensils for a smooth preparation. We keep the moonshine at room temperature and organize the chocolate components for easy access.
Softening The Chocolate
We warm a heavy-bottomed saucepan over low heat to prevent scorching. We stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips along with the sweetened condensed milk until everything melts evenly. We maintain gentle heat and use a silicone spatula to keep the mixture from sticking. We remove the saucepan from heat when the chocolate melts completely.
| Action | Duration (Minutes) |
|---|---|
| Warm saucepan on low heat | 1 |
| Melt chocolate chips | 3 to 5 |
Measuring The Moonshine
We select our measuring cups for precise results. We pour the moonshine gently into a dry measuring cup. We check the liquid level at eye level for accuracy. We keep a steady pour to avoid splashing. We set the measured moonshine aside until the softened chocolate mixture is ready for blending.
Instructions
We are ready to transform our measured ingredients into a batch of Moonshine Fudge. Follow these steps to melt the base and infuse it with bold flavor.
Melting The Base
Warm a heavy-bottomed saucepan over low heat. Add 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips, 14 ounces of sweetened condensed milk and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Stir gently with a silicone spatula. Watch the mixture closely to avoid scorching. Once the chocolate turns smooth remove the pan from heat.
| Step | Time Estimate |
|---|---|
| Melting Chocolate | 5 minutes |
| Incorporating Butter | 1 minute |
| Chilling Fudge | 2 hours |
Adding The Moonshine
Pour 2 tablespoons of moonshine into the warm mixture. Stir steadily until the spirits are fully blended. If desired add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for a subtle sweetness. Line a baking dish with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture to the dish. Spread the fudge evenly then place it in the refrigerator. Let it firm for about two hours or until completely set.
Setting And Cutting
We wrap our Moonshine Fudge in parchment to prevent sticking. We transfer the pan to the fridge for at least two hours so the fudge sets firmly without losing its smooth texture. Once fully chilled we grip the parchment edges to lift the fudge slab out of the dish. A sharp non-serrated knife allows us to slice cleanly through each inch of fudge with minimal cracking. For uniform pieces we can occasionally wipe the blade with a warm damp cloth. We cut small one-inch squares to capture a balanced blend of chocolate and moonshine in each bite.
| Stage | Duration or Size |
|---|---|
| Setting in fridge | 2 hours or until firm |
| Cutting into squares | 1 inch or desired size |
Serving Suggestions
We suggest slicing our Moonshine Fudge into small squares. We often pair each bite-sized piece with fresh fruit or strong coffee. This creates a smooth contrast that balances the bold sweet flavor and the creamy texture of the fudge. We sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar over the top for an elegant finish. We also enjoy wrapping each piece in parchment for party favors or special gifts. This keeps our fudge fresh and allows easy transport.
Consider the following serving ideas:
| Occasion | Fudge Squares per Serving | Suggested Pairing |
|---|---|---|
| Holiday Gatherings | 2 to 3 | Hot Cocoa |
| After-Dinner | 1 to 2 | A cup of strong coffee |
| Party Favors | 3 to 4 | Assorted fresh berries |
We love placing a plate of fudge on our dessert table. This presentation lets guests enjoy the rich chocolate base with the adventurous twist of homemade spirits. If we have leftovers we store them in an airtight container in the fridge to preserve freshness and flavor.
Conclusion
We love how this dessert brings a creamy texture and a unique flair. It shows us that a little ingenuity can transform a simple recipe into something memorable. It’s a perfect choice for special occasions or cozy evenings with friends. We hope our enthusiasm encourages others to savor bold new tastes too.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Moonshine Fudge?
Moonshine Fudge is a creative spin on classic chocolate fudge that includes a splash of homemade spirits. It blends the smooth richness of semi-sweet chocolate chips with the bold, slightly sweet taste of moonshine, delivering a unique treat with every bite.
Why should I use a heavy-bottomed saucepan?
A heavy-bottomed saucepan distributes heat evenly, preventing your fudge from scorching while melting the chocolate chips and condensed milk. This ensures a velvety texture and consistency for the fudge without lumps or burnt spots.
Can I substitute the moonshine?
Yes. If moonshine isn’t available, you can replace it with another spirit like bourbon or rum, or even skip it entirely. The fudge will still be delicious, though the signature kick of moonshine will be missing.
How long does the fudge take to chill?
Typically, it takes around two hours in the refrigerator for the fudge to set. This time allows the chocolate to firm up, making it easier to slice into clean squares without sticking.
Can I add extra flavors?
Absolutely. Consider adding a pinch of salt, a teaspoon of vanilla extract, or sprinkle chopped nuts for extra crunch and flavor. Experiment to find your perfect blend and make the fudge your own.
What’s the best way to cut the fudge?
Use a sharp non-serrated knife and wipe the blade with a warm, damp cloth between cuts. This trick helps you achieve smooth, clean slices without smearing or crumbling the fudge.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Moonshine Fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keeping it chilled helps maintain the fudge’s firm texture and preserves its rich flavor. It’s best consumed within a couple of weeks.