Found this crazy fudge recipe using instant mashed potatoes - yes, you read that right! First time I told my kids what was in it, they looked at me like I lost my mind. But once they tasted it, they begged for more. Now it's our secret ingredient that makes everyone ask 'What makes this fudge so creamy?' You should see their faces when I tell them - priceless! Been tweaking recipe for few months and finally got it perfect.
Why This Fudge Is Special
- Smooth as silk no grainy bits ever
- Super easy no candy thermometer needed
- Stays creamy way longer than regular fudge
- Fun conversation starter at parties
- Great for kids help make no hot sugar
- Makes perfect gift people always want recipe
- Cheap make big batch holidays
What You'll Need
- The Basics:
- Box instant mashed potatoes plain ones
- Almond bark white or chocolate kind
- Can sweetened condensed milk
- Fun sprinkles or nuts for top
- Kitchen Stuff:
- Big microwave safe bowl
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- 8x8 pan for setting
- Measuring cups
Let's Make Magic
- Getting Started
- Make those instant potatoes but use little less water than package says. Want them thick but still smooth. Let cool bit or melt chocolate too fast.
- Melting Time
- Break up almond bark into bowl. Microwave in short bits stir between or gets lumpy. When smooth add that can sweetened condensed milk makes everything better!
- Mix It Up
- Here's weird part - dump those mashed potatoes right in! Kids love watching this part cause looks so wrong but works out promise. Stir like crazy till everything smooth no potato lumps!
- Making It Pretty
- Pour into pan lined with foil or parchment paper learned hard way stuck otherwise. Smooth top with spatula add sprinkles quick before sets.
- Waiting Game
- Hardest part! Stick in fridge couple hours till firm. Kids usually check every 5 minutes asking if ready yet.
Tips From My Kitchen
Don't tell anyone about potatoes till after they try it - trust me on this one! Make sure potatoes really smooth or get little lumps in fudge not cute. If mixture seems too thick add tiny splash milk. Too thin add bit more melted almond bark. Keep checking while melting chocolate burned batch once house smelled like toasted marshmallows gone wrong for days!
Switch It Up
Sometimes use chocolate almond bark instead white. Tried mixing both once looked like marble so pretty! Can add nuts while mixing or top peanuts especially good. My kids love when add crushed Oreos on top. Once added peppermint extract at Christmas everyone thought came from fancy candy shop!
Serving And Storing
Cut into squares when completely cold or gets messy. Looks fancy on pretty plate for parties. Stays good in fridge couple weeks but never lasts that long at my house! Can freeze if wrap really good but texture bit different after thawing still tastes amazing though. Makes great gift in cute boxes just don't forget write recipe card cause everyone asks!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can you taste the potato?
No, the potato just adds creamy texture and helps with consistency. The vanilla almond bark provides all the flavor.
- → Why use instant potatoes?
Instant potatoes provide consistent texture and are already the right consistency. Regular mashed potatoes might be too wet or lumpy.
- → Can I use chocolate instead?
Yes, chocolate almond bark or melting wafers can replace vanilla for a different flavor. Use the same amount.
- → Why isn't my fudge setting?
Make sure to use enough bark and chill completely. The potato should be prepared exactly as directed on package for right consistency.
- → How long does this keep?
Store in airtight container in fridge for up to a week. Let sit at room temperature briefly before serving.