Mamie Eisenhower’s Fudge: A Vintage White House Recipe

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This creamy, foolproof fudge was a favorite of First Lady Mamie Eisenhower, who famously served it in the White House during the 1950s. With its rich chocolate flavor and velvety texture, it’s a timeless treat that’s easier to make than traditional fudge—no candy thermometer required!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ No-fail method – Simple stovetop preparation
✅ Smooth, creamy texture – No graininess!
✅ Nostalgic flavor – A taste of Americana
✅ Great for gifting – Perfect for holidays or care packages

Ingredients & Substitutions

Original White House Recipe

  • 4 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
  • ½ cup (1 stick) butter
  • 12 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped
  • 12 oz milk chocolate, chopped
  • 1 (7 oz) jar marshmallow creme
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Modern Shortcuts

  • Chocolate chips instead of chopped bars
  • Sweetened condensed milk for extra creaminess (replace 1 cup sugar + evaporated milk with 1 can)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Pan

  1. Line a 9×13-inch pan with buttered parchment paper.

2. Cook the Sugar Base

  1. In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar, evaporated milk, and butter.
  2. Bring to a full rolling boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
  3. Boil 6 minutes (set a timer!).

3. Melt in the Chocolate

  1. Remove from heat and immediately add chocolate, marshmallow creme, and vanilla.
  2. Stir vigorously until completely smooth (about 2 minutes).
  3. Fold in nuts if using.

4. Set & Slice

  1. Pour into prepared pan and smooth the top.
  2. Cool at room temperature 4 hours (don’t refrigerate!).
  3. Cut into 1-inch squares.

Pro Tips from Mamie’s Kitchen

🍫 Chocolate quality matters: Use Ghirardelli or Baker’s chocolate for authentic 1950s flavor.
⏳ Patience pays: Letting it cool slowly prevents crystallization.
🎁 Gift beautifully: Stack in vintage tins with wax paper between layers.

Variations

🌰 Nut-free: Use toasted coconut or dried cherries.
☕ Mocha twist: Add 1 tbsp instant espresso powder.
🍬 Rocky Road: Mix in mini marshmallows after pouring.

FAQs

Why is my fudge grainy?

You stirred too much after boiling or didn’t boil long enough.

Can I halve the recipe?

Yes! Use an 8×8-inch pan and reduce boil time to 5 minutes.

How to store?

Room temp in airtight container for 2 weeks (if it lasts that long!).

Final Thoughts

This Mamie Eisenhower Fudge is more than candy—it’s edible history. With its luxuriously smooth texture and deep chocolate flavor, it’s easy to see why this was a White House staple. Perfect for Christmas trays, bake sales, or a sweet trip down memory lane!

First Lady approved! 🇺🇸🍫

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