I'll admit it: I'm a fudge packer. Proud fudge packer here. As an expert, I've come up with a delicious rainbow-tastic fudge for Pride celebrations this year.
Pride celebrations are all about embracing joy, celebrating the rainbow and it communities. And what better way to embody that spirit than with a vibrant, delicious treat? This year, I'm bringing a show-stopping layered rainbow fudge to Pride
Now, I know what you might be thinking: layered fudge sounds complicated. But trust me, while it requires a little patience, it's actually quite manageable, even for beginner bakers. The result is absolutely worth the effort: a stunning dessert that’s as delicious as it is visually impactful.
What You'll Need:
For the Fudge Base:
3 cups granulated sugar
¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) unsalted butter, cut into cubes
⅔ cup evaporated milk
1 (12 oz.) package semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 (7 oz.) jar marshmallow crème
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
For the Rainbow Layers:
Gel food coloring: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and violet (gel is preferred for vibrant colors and minimal liquid addition)
Six small bowls
Six spoons or spatulas
Let's Get Started:
Prepare Your Pan: Grease and line an 8x8 inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides to easily lift the fudge out later. This is key - trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!
Cook the Fudge Base: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, butter and evaporated milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is dissolved and the butter is melted. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, continuing to stir constantly.
Timing is Key: Once boiling, continue to cook for exactly 5 minutes, still stirring constantly. This is crucial for the right fudge consistency. Don't skip this step or rush it!
Remove from Heat & Add the Goodies: Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately stir in the chocolate chips, marshmallow crème, vanilla extract and salt. Stir until everything is melted and smooth. It might take a little elbow grease, but keep at it!
Divide and Conquer: Divide the fudge mixture evenly into the six small bowls. This is where the magic begins.
Coloring Time: Add a few drops of gel food coloring to each bowl, using a different color for each. Start with a small amount and gradually add more until you achieve your desired shade. Remember, a little gel food coloring goes a long way.
Layering with Love: Now comes the fun part! Starting with one color (I usually begin with red), pour a thin layer of the colored fudge into the prepared pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula.
Chill Out: Place the pan in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes, or until the first layer is set. This prevents the colors from bleeding into each other.
Repeat the Process: Repeat the previous steps with the remaining colored fudge, layering them in rainbow order (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, violet) and chilling between each layer. Be patient, this is what gives the fudge its stunning striped effect.
Final Chill Time: Once all the layers are complete, place the fudge in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to fully set.
Slice and Serve: Once the fudge is firm, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut it into bite-sized squares and get ready to wow your friends at your Pride celebration!
Tips and Tricks for Rainbow Fudge Success:
Gel Food Coloring is Your Friend: Avoid liquid food coloring, as it can thin the fudge and make the colors less vibrant.
Don't Overcook: Overcooked fudge can be dry and crumbly. Stick to the 5-minute boiling time.
Chill, Chill, Chill: Chilling between layers is essential to prevent color bleeding and create distinct stripes.
Get Creative: Feel free to adjust the colors to your liking. You could even add sprinkles or other decorations on top!
Happy Pride!