History of Fudge (2024)

Chocolate Fudge: An American Invention

Culinary legend has it that fudge was invented in America. On Valentine's Day, 1886, a confectioner and chocolate maker in Baltimore, Maryland "fudged" a batch of French caramels. The delicious result? The very first batch of "fudge" ever.

In France they say that caramel and fudge are "cousins".Fudge is also similar to French fondant candy.

American fudge is a simple, rich and luscious indulgence. Many people across the country have special family recipes for fudge. Often times it is remembered as a favorite that "Grandma used to make".

Not all fudge is chocolate, however the chocolate fudge variety is the most popular. Chocolate fudge is often thought of when people hear the word "fudge".

Some people mistakenly believe that fudge is a British invention. There are versions of fudge in the Midlands region of England as well as in Scotland. However, even the most well-known fudge maker in Britain likes to set the record straight by clarifying that fudge is a uniquely American invention!


Readmore: History of Chocolate

History of Fudge (2024)

FAQs

Where did fudge originate? ›

Culinary legend has it that fudge was invented in America. On Valentine's Day, 1886, a confectioner and chocolate maker in Baltimore, Maryland "fudged" a batch of French caramels. The delicious result? The very first batch of "fudge" ever.

Is fudge a British thing? ›

Fudge almost certainly has its origins in 19th century USA where it was popular in the women's colleges of the time. The generally-accepted line is that it all began with a certain Emelyn Battersby Hartridge, a student at Vassar College in New York.

Why do they call fudge fudge? ›

The story goes, a baker was trying to make chocolate caramels. However, they didn't get the recipe quite right. When the candy came out as the creamy treat we know today, they said, “Oh, fudge!” and that's how the candy got its name. The first recorded mention of fudge came from 1888.

Why does Mackinac Island make fudge? ›

As Mackinac Island evolved from a center of fur trade into a summer resort destination, Victorian-era vacationers began to identify the island with sweets. At first, the most common candy was maple sugar harvested by Native Americans. Other treats, including fudge, soon followed.

What city is known for fudge? ›

You get the sugar, the cream cafe mocha-type flavor!" Mackinac Island, between Michigan's Upper and Lower Peninsulas, is the self-proclaimed "Fudge Capital of America." The car-free oasis has more than a dozen fudge shops. During the summer, fudge-loving tourists (affectionately called "fudgies") flood the island.

What is fudge slang for? ›

: foolish nonsense. often used interjectionally to express annoyance, disappointment, or disbelief. 2. : a soft creamy candy made typically of sugar, milk, butter, and flavoring.

Why is fudge a tourist thing? ›

So maybe fudge—like Dippin' Dots or cotton candy—became a tourist dessert because it was a novel way of making sweets. Fudgeries provided both the entertainment of watching something new and unusual being made and the happy junk-food rush of eating a filling, sweet candy.

What is fudge called in Scotland? ›

Tablet (taiblet in Scots) is a medium-hard, sugary confection from Scotland. Tablet is usually made from sugar, condensed milk, and butter, which is boiled to a soft-ball stage and allowed to crystallise. It is often flavoured with vanilla and sometimes has nut pieces in it.

Is saying fudge swearing? ›

They can use this as a verb. Like, "Ah, I fudged this!" Or, you might use it as an exclamation like, "Ah, fudge! I messed it up." "Fudge" is a type of chocolate. This is a pretty soft kind of curse word.

What is the world's best fudge? ›

Mackinac Island Fudge – The Best Fudge on Earth
  • Original Murdick's Fudge.
  • Joann's Fudge.
  • Ryba's Fudge Shops.

What celebrities own property on Mackinac Island? ›

Do any celebrities live on Mackinac Island? Yes, celebrities have houses on Mackinac Island. A few are actor Vince Vaughn, Director Ron Howard, and Michigan's own Bob Seger.

Who owns most of Mackinac Island? ›

While all of Mackinac Island, the landform, is located within the corporate limits of the City of Mackinac Island, today 82 percent of the island's landmass is owned by the State of Michigan and managed by the Mackinac Island State Park Commission (MISPC).

Is fudge an American dessert? ›

Fudge is a type of confection that is made by mixing sugar, butter and milk. It has its origins in the 19th century United States, and was popular in the women's colleges of the time.

Is Scotland known for fudge? ›

Scottish fudge is a true classic. For many in Scotland, it's not just a sweet treat but a trip down memory lane. Think about special family times, holiday gatherings, or simply a comforting snack on a chilly day. Made with a few basic ingredients, its rich taste and smooth texture make it a favourite for all ages.

What kind of fudge is on Mackinac Island? ›

Michigan Maple Pecan

Ryba's Maple Pecan Fudge is the ideal maple indulgence bringing together the flavors of rich buttery pecans and the sweetness of pure Michigan maple sugar locally harvested. Made by hand using traditional copper kettles and marble slabs to create the richest and creamiest fudge on Mackinac Island.

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