Mamie Eisenhower’s Fudge

Mamie Eisenhower, America’s former First Lady, is perhaps most remembered for popularizing the color pink, transforming it into a staple of mid-century American interiors. Her love for this soft hue led to the rise of pink bathrooms, powder rooms, boudoirs, and fashion trends. However, despite her elegance and femininity, she was not particularly skilled in the kitchen. A 1955 newspaper article humorously recounts how Mamie often referred to her husband, Dwight, as the family chef, confessing that at the start of their marriage she could only make two things: mayonnaise and fudge.

Ingredients

Preparation

1. Line a 9” x 13” pan with foil and grease it using 1 tablespoon of butter. Place candy bars, chocolate chips, marshmallow creme, and walnuts in a large heatproof bowl.
2. In a saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, and remaining butter. Heat over medium-low, stirring frequently, and bring to a boil for 4 minutes.
3. Carefully pour the hot milk mixture over the ingredients in the bowl. Stir until fully combined.
4. Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan, using the back of a spoon to level it out. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
5. Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the foil edges. Cut into 1” squares and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.