Linda CainWhen indulging in a decadent treat like Neiman Marcus fudge, you might wonder what to serve alongside it. The rich, creamy texture of fudge pairs splendidly with a variety of desserts and beverages.
You could try a cup of steaming coffee; the bitter notes complement the sweet, luscious fudge. Alternatively, a scoop of vanilla ice cream can create a delightful contrast, offering a cool counterbalance. For a more adventurous pairing, consider serving it with a berry medley. The tartness of fresh berries can cut through the sweetness and elevate your tasting experience.
Now that’s a taste combination that’s hard to resist. Let’s dive into the story of this fabulous fudge and how you can recreate it at home.
I remember the first time I encountered a slice of Neiman Marcus fudge. It was at a holiday gathering, tucked between trays of cookies and pies. The creaminess caught my attention instantly.
As I took that first bite, the texture melted in my mouth, and I was hooked. This wasn’t just any fudge; it was a legacy of sorts—rich in flavor and history. Over the years, I’ve experimented with many fudge recipes, but nothing beats the simplicity and depth of the Neiman Marcus version.
So, if you’re ready to embark on a sweet adventure, let’s break down this fudge. After all, who wouldn’t want a slice of history on their plate?
What Is Neiman Marcus Fudge?
The Neiman Marcus fudge recipe is often whispered about at gatherings, sharing a reputation as a decadent, melt-in-the-mouth treat. Legend has it that this recipe originated from the iconic Neiman Marcus department store in Dallas, Texas. Known for its luxury goods, the store also became famous for its cafes, serving delightful sweets, particularly this fudge.
This recipe showcases a simple combination of rich chocolate and buttery goodness. With just a handful of ingredients, it transforms into a sweet masterpiece that many struggle to resist. It’s a perfect treat for both special occasions and everyday indulgences.
What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Neiman Marcus Fudge Recipes?
You may find various adaptations of the Neiman Marcus fudge recipe out there, but what sets this one apart? First, it’s the balance of flavors. Many recipes lean heavily on sweetness, risking an overly sugary bite. This recipe includes a pinch of sea salt, enhancing the chocolate’s richness and cutting through the sweetness.
Secondly, the incorporation of dark chocolate morsels gives it a depth of flavor that many others lack. This choice brings a more complex taste, straying away from the one-note sweetness often found in regular fudge. It’s like the difference between a classic song and a well-arranged orchestra—the latter simply has more layers to love.
How Does It Taste?
Imagine taking a bite: it’s a perfect combination of creamy and rich. The chocolate flavor bursts forth, but the subtle notes of vanilla and a hint of cocoa powder round out the experience. The salt becomes a delightful surprise, enhancing each bite’s complexity. You’ll find it so delicious that you might have trouble stopping at just one piece.
It’s truly a treat for the senses. The fudge is smooth and velvety with just a touch of chewiness, making it a satisfying morsel that lingers on the palate. Serve it at gatherings, and watch as it quickly becomes a favorite among guests.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish
To make the delightful Neiman Marcus fudge, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 stick of unsalted butter
- 1 (12 oz.) package of semisweet chocolate morsels
- 1 pound of icing sugar
- 1/4 cup of cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
- A pinch of sea salt
Got all that? Fantastic! Let’s get to the good part: preparing the fudge.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is an important step that will set the stage for your fudge to come together perfectly.
Step 2: Melt the Butter and Chocolate
In a medium saucepan, combine the stick of unsalted butter and the semisweet chocolate morsels over low heat. Stir frequently until both ingredients are melted and fully combined. Make sure not to let it boil; you want a smooth, glossy mixture, not a gritty mess.
Step 3: Mix in the Eggs
Once the chocolate and butter mixture is melted, remove it from the heat. Let it sit for a minute before whisking in the two large eggs. You don’t want to cook the eggs, just integrate them into this delicious mixture.
Step 4: Add Sugar and Cocoa
Next, sift in the pound of icing sugar and the 1/4 cup of cocoa powder. Add the teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Stir everything together until combined. This step will require some elbow grease, but the effort will pay off with the amazing texture you’re about to achieve.
Step 5: Pour into Baking Dish
Once everything is mixed well, pour the fudge batter into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly across the dish, making sure the top is smooth.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. Keep an eye on it as every oven is a bit different. You want a fudgy center—no one likes dry fudge.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Once it’s done baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool completely. After cooling, slice it into squares. You can indulge right away or store it for later.
Tips & Tricks on Making Neiman Marcus Fudge
- Use quality chocolate morsels: The flavor of your fudge relies heavily on the chocolate used. Choose high-quality semisweet chocolate for the best results.
- Cool completely: Patience is key. Letting it cool completely helps it firm up and makes cutting easier.
- Add nuts if desired: For extra crunch, throw in some chopped walnuts or pecans. They add texture and a delightful nutty flavor.
- Don’t overbake: Remove the fudge when it’s still slightly soft in the middle to maintain that gooey fudge texture.
- Experiment with toppings: Drizzling with melted chocolate or sprinkling with sea salt before it cools can elevate your fudge game.
Nutrition Information
neiman marcus fudge recipe nutrition facts
How Do I Store This Dish?
To keep your Neiman Marcus fudge fresh:
- Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- If you want to keep it for longer, consider refrigerating it. It can last up to two weeks in the fridge.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the fudge. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before storing it in a freezer-safe container. This should keep it fresh for up to three months.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Neiman Marcus Fudge?
If you’re looking to switch things up or need substitutions, here are some suggestions:
- Dark chocolate chips: Swap the semisweet chocolate for dark chocolate chips for a more intense flavor.
- Coconut oil: Use coconut oil in place of butter for a dairy-free version, although this may yield a slightly different texture.
- Granulated sugar: If you don’t have icing sugar, you can use granulated sugar. Just be sure to blend it finely first.
- Almond extract: For a different flavor, replace vanilla extract with almond extract. It adds a pleasant twist.
- Peanut butter: Stirring in a bit of peanut butter can add a creamy nutty flavor, which pairs deliciously with chocolate.
Neiman Marcus Fudge Recipe
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1 stick of unsalted butter
- 1 12 oz. package of semisweet chocolate morsels
- 1 pound of icing sugar
- 1/4 cup of cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
- A pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is an important step that will set the stage for your fudge to come together perfectly.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the stick of unsalted butter and the semisweet chocolate morsels over low heat. Stir frequently until both ingredients are melted and fully combined. Make sure not to let it boil; you want a smooth, glossy mixture, not a gritty mess.
- Once the chocolate and butter mixture is melted, remove it from the heat. Let it sit for a minute before whisking in the two large eggs. You don’t want to cook the eggs, just integrate them into this delicious mixture.
- Next, sift in the pound of icing sugar and the 1/4 cup of cocoa powder. Add the teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Stir everything together until combined. This step will require some elbow grease, but the effort will pay off with the amazing texture you’re about to achieve.
- Once everything is mixed well, pour the fudge batter into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly across the dish, making sure the top is smooth.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. Keep an eye on it as every oven is a bit different. You want a fudgy center—no one likes dry fudge.
- Once it’s done baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool completely. After cooling, slice it into squares. You can indulge right away or store it for later.
Notes
- Use quality chocolate morsels: The flavor of your fudge relies heavily on the chocolate used. Choose high-quality semisweet chocolate for the best results.
- Cool completely: Patience is key. Letting it cool completely helps it firm up and makes cutting easier.
- Add nuts if desired: For extra crunch, throw in some chopped walnuts or pecans. They add texture and a delightful nutty flavor.
- Don’t overbake: Remove the fudge when it’s still slightly soft in the middle to maintain that gooey fudge texture.
- Experiment with toppings: Drizzling with melted chocolate or sprinkling with sea salt before it cools can elevate your fudge game.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
The Neiman Marcus fudge is more than just a sweet treat; it’s a slice of luxury and tradition. With its rich, creamy texture and deep chocolate flavor, it’s bound to be a hit whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of coffee. The best part? It’s simple to make and offers plenty of room for creative tweaks.
Whether you choose to stick with the classic recipe or explore some fun variations, this fudge is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. So go ahead, treat yourself, and enjoy every indulgent bite of Neiman Marcus fudge.
