Celebrating National Nutty Fudge Day: A Bite of Sweet History

But where did nutty fudge come from, and how did it become such a classic confection? Grab yourself a slice (or two) as we dig into the rich history of this beloved sweet.

A Sweet Beginning

The origins of fudge go back to 1886, when a Vassar College student, Emelyn Battersby Hartridge, wrote a letter. She wrote about her Baltimore cousin, who had made and sold a delicious fudge for 40 cents a pound. Intrigued, Hartridge managed to get her hands on the recipe, and soon, she was whipping up batches of fudge herself. By 1888, she had made a whopping 30 pounds of the confection for her school’s Senior Auction. It’s a testament to fudge’s simple yet delightful beginnings, a tradition that has stood the test of time.

Soon after, shops on Mackinac Island, Michigan, began crafting fudge as a sweet treat for summer vacationers. Suppose you’ve ever visited Mackinac’s famous fudge shops. In that case, they still make it old-fashioned, just as they did in the late 19th century.

Why Add Nuts?

Adding nuts to fudge wasn’t accidental. It elevated the already delicious treat by adding texture and flavor. Pecans and walnuts, known for their healthy fats and protein, quickly became the go-to options, perfectly complementing the rich, creamy chocolate with their earthy crunch. Whether you love the nutty pieces or enjoy the variety they bring to each bite, nut-laden fudge is undeniably satisfying.

How to Celebrate National Nutty Fudge Day

National Nutty Fudge Day is not just a day to indulge but also a day to create and share joy. Making homemade fudge, from melting the butter and sugar to patiently waiting for it to set, is a rewarding experience. And what’s more rewarding than sharing this delicious treat with your loved ones? If you can resist eating it all yourself, homemade fudge makes the perfect gift, spreading joy and sweetness to those around you.

Here’s how you can join the celebration:

• Make Fudge: Get into the spirit by making nutty fudge from scratch. Pecans? Walnuts? Heck, why not both? Add almonds or macadamia nuts for a twist if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Share the Love: Make a little extra and package it up for friends and family. An unexpected sweet treat always brightens someone’s day.
• Post Your Creations: Snap a picture of your delicious masterpiece and share it online with #NationalNuttyFudgeDay.
• Visit Local Shops: If you aren’t up for making your fudge, visit a local candy or fudge shop. Places like Mackinac Island still carry that old-world charm and tradition of handmade fudge.

A Treat That Stands the Test of Time

What I love most about nutty fudge is how it brings people together, no matter the occasion. Whether it’s shared during a holiday celebration, gifted to a neighbor, or just enjoyed with your family over a warm afternoon coffee, fudge feels like a slice of happiness wrapped in sweetness.

As you savor your next bite of nutty fudge, think back to its humble beginnings at Vassar College or the charming fudge shops of Mackinac Island. It’s a reminder that the simplest things in life—from a handwritten recipe to a little crunch in your dessert—can create lasting memories.

Happy National Nutty Fudge Day! What’s your favorite kind of nutty fudge? I’d love to see your nutty fudge creations. Don’t forget to share them with us and the world using #NationalNuttyFudgeDay.

References:

National Day Calendar. National Nutty Fudge Day. https://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-day/national-nutty-fudge-day-may-