NOTE: The base of this sculpture was made by making 4 batches of this recipe.
Makes about 4 cups
4 cups granulated sugar
1 cup cocoa powder
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 cup walnut pieces, toasted and salted
• In a deep, heavy-bottomed pot, combine sugar, cocoa powder, and milk. Heat over medium heat, stirring until mixture comes to a boil. Reduce heat slightly and clip a candy thermometer on inside of pot. Do not stir again. When mixture reaches 236°F, remove from heat. Pour into a large bowl, making sure not to scrape sides. Using a wooden spoon, mix in butter and beat by hand. After butter is fully incorporated, add vanilla and nuts.
• (If you just want the fudge without using it for sculpting, simply pour into a 10-inch square baking pan lined with parchment and refrigerate for an hour until set, then enjoy.) Continue mixing by hand until a large ball is formed. Then, using clean hands, remove and mold to desired shape.
NOTE: The base of this sculpture was made by making 4 batches of this recipe.
