The Cost of Fudge

Last Updated on December 23, 2022
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Fudge is a very popular, sweet confectionery with an incredibly rich flavor that all Americans know and love. Unlike other favorites like chocolate or candy corn, American Fudge was invented in the late 1880s, meaning it is a pretty new product. Even though some people may substitute milk with cream, the recipe for fudge is pretty straightforward, containing just candy, butter, and milk.

Fudge is something that can be found almost anywhere, but it seems like the best fudge made from fresh ingredients and high-quality chocolate is usually only available in touristy areas. This makes sense because not many people have time or access to make their own delicious homemade desserts without a hassle.

How much does fudge cost per pound?

The cost of fudge will depend on a variety of factors, such as flavor and the company that’s producing it. If you’re buying by the ounce then plan for about $1 to $2 per oz., whereas if you buy in bulk your costs may be between $7-$20 an lb. Your pure chocolate or vanilla slabs are going to be cheaper options, and those with candy toppings can cost up to 40% more than their counterparts.

You might also like our articles about the cost of crepes, baklava, or donuts.

The highly-rated fudge from Amazon sells anywhere between $14-$20 per pound while Mosfudgesfactor has theirs priced at only $8 per half a pound with some delicious varieties like Chocolate Peanut Butter, Maple, Walnut, or even Sugar Free Chocolate.

LadyFudge’s site also displays her prices, with most of the flavors retailing for $7 per pound – such as peanut butter, chocolate and cherry.

Fudge details

Fudge is a sweet and creamy treat to enjoy during fall. Flavors of fudge can range from the traditional chocolate, peanut butter or coconut flavors to more unique ones like Butterbeer Fudge on site at Universal Studios Orlando. Specialty treats are often topped with candy such as M&Ms, peanuts or cinnamon for an extra kick of flavor in every bite.

Chocolate fudge has an average of 70 calories, 1.8 grams of fat, and 12g sugar per 17-gram piece; however, these numbers can change depending on the candy or flavors added to it which may result in a different calorie count.

Making fudge is a delicate process that requires precision and patience. The recipe dates back to 1830, with ingredients mixed in just the right proportion before being heated over 230 degrees Fahrenheit. Molten liquid then pours onto marble slab while wall-mounted fans cool it from above. It then is shaped into smaller pieces using paddle tools, turning all the time towards center of solidifying mixture until set completely. Eventually, it will be shaped into a mushy sausage-shape that will then be sliced up and served in the front of the shop, right there and then. What results from all this flipping and cooling are intensely sweet, buttery tasting pieces that have an almost crunchiness on the outside but when you bite into them they’re soft with fudgy consistency inside. It has a similar effect to making your own chocolate brownies.

Extra expenses to consider

Many online retailers are wary of shipping delicate items, such as fudge. Though it should be shipped within 24 hours to ensure freshness and prevent melting or cracking, the cost could vary from $10-$50 depending on weight and distance traveled.

Important tips to remember

Making fudge at home can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be. When you’ve mastered the recipe and are ready for your first batch of homemade sweet treats, don’t get too frustrated if everything does not go according to plan on the first try; many people struggle with making perfect fudge right off the bat.

While there isn’t an expiration date on fudge in general, you can store it in airtight containers for up one or two weeks without refrigeration; with chilled storage on the other hand, your fudge may last three times as long.

It is hard to say whether or not fudge contains gluten since the ingredients are so diverse. Some recipes may be safe while others contain items that could make it non-gluten-free, like some ingredients added for flavor. For this reason, you should ask about every ingredient before making a decision on which type of fudge type to eat.

How can you save money?

Many people always value quality over price. Fudge may be more expensive in one store because it has established itself for producing top-notch products, making it the best place from where to buy fudge, when compared to a cheaper, unknown shop.

If you live in a touristy area, there are probably coupon books with coupons available from popular fudge companies.

Places full of tourists might not be the best for bargains if you’re buying only one item but you might be able to save money if your purchase is considerable in size.