The Ultimate C.M.N.T Fudge Recipe for Festive Indulgence

Welcome to the ultimate guide for creating the most decadent and festive treat of the season. The Ultimate C.M.N.T Fudge Recipe for Festive Indulgence is a masterpiece of flavor and texture, designed to become the star of your holiday dessert table. This recipe combines creamy chocolate, gooey marshmallow, crunchy nuts, and a hint of tart cranberry for a truly unforgettable experience. Each bite delivers a symphony of sensations that will leave your guests begging for the recipe.

Moreover, this fudge is surprisingly simple to make, requiring no special skills or fancy equipment. The magic truly lies in the perfect balance of ingredients, which we will explore in detail. Consequently, even a beginner baker can achieve professional-level results with this guide. Ultimately, this C.M.N.T fudge is more than just a candy; it is a celebration of holiday flavors wrapped in a rich, indulgent package.

Finally, the beauty of this recipe extends beyond its taste. Its festive appearance, studded with red cranberries and nut pieces, makes it a gorgeous edible gift. Therefore, whether you are hosting a party or simply craving a sweet treat, this fudge is the perfect solution. Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will redefine your definition of homemade candy.

Quick Recipe Highlights

• Flavor Profile: This fudge boasts a deep, rich chocolate base perfectly complemented by the sweet fluffiness of marshmallow. Additionally, the salty crunch of nuts provides a wonderful contrast, while the dried cranberries introduce a bright, tart note that cuts through the sweetness.
• Texture: The texture is a key component of its appeal, featuring an incredibly smooth and creamy melt-in-your-mouth foundation. Meanwhile, the chopped nuts offer a satisfying crunch, and the chewy marshmallows and cranberries create a delightful play of softness and resistance in every bite.
• Aroma: As it cooks, the kitchen fills with the warm, comforting scent of melting chocolate and toasting nuts. Furthermore, the sweet vanilla notes from the marshmallow cream blend beautifully with the fruity tang of the cranberries, creating an irresistible festive fragrance.
• Visual Appeal: The fudge presents a beautiful marbled chocolate canvas speckled with white marshmallow swirls. Subsequently, the vibrant red cranberry pieces and the earthy tones of the nuts create a visually stunning and holiday-appropriate treat that is almost too pretty to eat.
• Skill Level Needed: This recipe is firmly in the beginner-friendly category, requiring no candy thermometer or advanced techniques. Essentially, success hinges on careful attention to timing and thorough stirring, making it an ideal project for novice cooks and children.
• Special Equipment: You only need very basic kitchen tools: a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent burning, a sturdy wooden spoon for mixing, and a standard 9×9 inch baking pan. Ultimately, a good quality saucepan is the most important piece of equipment for even heat distribution.

Recipe Overview

• Difficulty Level: We classify this recipe as easy because it utilizes a simple melting and combining method. The process involves no tricky stages like reaching a specific sugar temperature, which is common in traditional fudge. Instead, it relies on the combination of chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk for a foolproof set. Therefore, anyone can achieve perfect results by following the steps carefully.
• Category: This treat falls squarely into the dessert and candy category, perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth. It is an ideal choice for holiday baking, potlucks, and edible gifting due to its rich flavor and long shelf life. Furthermore, it serves as a wonderful homemade alternative to store-bought confections.
• Cuisine: While fudge is a classic American confection, this particular recipe incorporates flavors that evoke a sense of rustic, holiday warmth. The combination of nuts and fruit is a timeless pairing found in many traditional desserts across various cultures, making it a universally appealing treat.
• Cost: This recipe is relatively inexpensive to make, especially when compared to purchasing high-quality fudge from a specialty shop. The main costs come from the chocolate chips and nuts. Fortunately, you can often find these ingredients on sale during the holiday season, making it a cost-effective dessert option.
• Season: This fudge is perfectly suited for the fall and winter seasons, particularly around Thanksgiving and Christmas. The warm flavors of chocolate and nuts paired with the festive red cranberries embody the spirit of the holidays. However, its deliciousness knows no seasonal bounds.
• Occasion: It is an incredibly versatile treat suitable for numerous occasions. It is perfect for holiday cookie exchanges, birthday parties, gift-giving, or as a special weekend project. Essentially, any time calls for a rich, indulgent chocolate candy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

First and foremost, the taste and texture of this C.M.N.T fudge are simply divine. The rich chocolate base provides a deep cocoa flavor that is neither too sweet nor too bitter. Meanwhile, the marshmallow cream adds an incredible lightness and sweetness that melts on your tongue. The crunchy nuts provide a savory counterpoint, and the tart cranberries burst with flavor, preventing the sweetness from becoming overwhelming. Every single slice offers a complex and satisfying sensory experience that is both nostalgic and excitingly new.

Furthermore, the convenience of this recipe is a major selling point. Unlike traditional fudge that requires precise temperature monitoring, this version is virtually foolproof. You can whip up a batch in less than 30 minutes of active time, and it requires no baking. This makes it an ideal last-minute dessert or a stress-free cooking project to do with family. The simplicity of the process means you can focus on enjoying the creative act of cooking rather than worrying about technical details.

From a nutritional perspective, while this is indeed a treat, it offers some benefits. The nuts provide a source of healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals like magnesium and vitamin E. Meanwhile, dried cranberries contain antioxidants and dietary fiber. Of course, this fudge should be enjoyed in moderation, but knowing that it contains real ingredients like whole nuts and fruit makes it a more mindful indulgence compared to overly processed candies.

Socially, this fudge is a superstar. It is the perfect make-ahead dessert for entertaining, as it can be prepared days in advance. Its rich flavor means a small piece is very satisfying, making it great for a crowd. It also travels exceptionally well, making it the perfect edible gift for neighbors, teachers, or hosts. Presenting a beautifully wrapped box of homemade fudge is a heartfelt gesture that is always warmly received and appreciated.

Finally, its cost-effectiveness and accessibility cannot be overstated. The ingredients are common and easy to find in any supermarket. You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand, swapping different nuts or dried fruits. Making fudge at home is significantly cheaper than buying it from a candy store, allowing you to create generous portions for a fraction of the cost. This recipe delivers maximum luxury and flavor for a minimal investment of time and money.

Historical Background and Cultural Significance

The origin of fudge is a delightful bit of American culinary folklore. Most food historians agree that it was first created in the United States in the late 19th century. The story often cited points to a accidental “fudged” batch of caramels made at Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, New York. Consequently, the name “fudge” stuck, and it quickly became a popular confection on college campuses. Originally, it was a very simple mixture of sugar, butter, and milk, cooked to a soft-ball stage.

Fudge holds significant cultural importance as a homemade candy, often associated with holidays, vacations, and family gatherings. For many people, the smell of fudge cooking evokes strong memories of Christmas and summer trips to tourist towns with famous fudge shops. It represents a tradition of homemade generosity and comfort. The act of making fudge to share is a ritual that has been passed down through generations, connecting us to our past.

The recipe has evolved dramatically from its simple beginnings. The invention of sweetened condensed milk and marshmallow creme in the 20th century revolutionized fudge-making. These ingredients created a much simpler, foolproof method that eliminated the need for a candy thermometer. This evolution opened up fudge-making to the masses, transforming it from a finicky recipe for experienced cooks into an accessible project for anyone. This C.M.N.T version is a modern twist on that evolution, incorporating contemporary flavor pairings.

Regional variations of fudge are plentiful across the United States. Tourist destinations like Mackinac Island in Michigan are famous for their unique cream-based fudge. Other regions incorporate local ingredients like pecans from the South or maple syrup from New England. This particular recipe, with its cranberry and nut combination, fits into a broader trend of incorporating fruits and nuts into classic desserts. It reflects a modern palate that enjoys balancing sweet, salty, and tart flavors in a single bite.

Ingredient Deep Dive

Let’s start with chocolate chips, the foundation of our fudge. Chocolate has a long and rich history, originating in Mesoamerica over 3,000 years ago. It was considered a sacred drink by the Aztecs and Mayans before being introduced to Europe. Nutritionally, dark chocolate contains flavonoids, antioxidants known to support heart health. When selecting chips for fudge, choose a brand you enjoy eating on its own, as the flavor will be prominent. For best results, store chocolate in a cool, dark place to prevent blooming, which is when fat or sugar rises to the surface creating white streaks.

Sweetened condensed milk is the magic ingredient that creates the fudge’s creamy texture without the hassle of a candy thermometer. It was invented in the 19th century as a way to preserve milk without refrigeration. This thick, sweet product provides the necessary sugar and milk solids that give the fudge its body and smoothness. It is a shelf-stable product, but once opened, any unused portion should be transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated for up to two weeks. There is no real substitute for it in this recipe, as it is key to the chemistry.

Marshmallow creme, or marshmallow fluff, adds an airy sweetness and iconic swirl to the fudge. Interestingly, marshmallow root was originally used to make a confection for soothing sore throats. The modern version is primarily sugar, corn syrup, and egg whites. It introduces a light, fluffy texture that contrasts beautifully with the dense chocolate. Once opened, a jar of marshmallow creme should be stored at room temperature with the lid tightly sealed to prevent it from drying out. In a pinch, you could melt down regular marshmallows with a little corn syrup.

Nuts are crucial for adding crunch and a savory element. Walnuts or pecans are traditional choices, but any nut will work. Nuts are nutritional powerhouses, packed with healthy fats, protein, vitamins, and minerals. They have been a staple in human diets for thousands of years. To ensure the best flavor, always taste your nuts before using them to make sure they are not rancid. For the freshest taste, store nuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer to prevent their oils from spoiling. Toasting them beforehand will greatly enhance their flavor.

Finally, dried cranberries provide the essential tart “T” in our C.M.N.T. Cranberries are one of North America’s native fruits, used by Indigenous peoples for food and medicine. They are renowned for their high vitamin C and antioxidant content. The drying process concentrates their sweetness and tartness, making them a perfect chewy counterpoint in the fudge. When purchasing dried cranberries, check that they are soft and pliable, not hard or overly dry. Store them in a cool, pantry in their original bag or an airtight container. You can substitute other dried fruits like cherries or raisins for a different flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overheating the Chocolate: Heating the chocolate mixture too quickly or for too long can cause the chocolate to seize or become grainy. Always use low to medium heat and stir constantly until just melted and smooth.
• Not Using a Heavy-Bottomed Pan: A thin pan will distribute heat unevenly, leading to hot spots that can easily burn the bottom of your fudge mixture. Invest in a good quality saucepan for best results.
• Forgetting to Prep the Pan: If you neglect to line your pan with parchment paper, you will have an extremely difficult time removing the fudge. Always leave an overhang of paper to act as handles for easy lifting.
• Under-mixing the Marshmallow: If you do not vigorously and quickly stir in the marshmallow creme and vanilla, you will not achieve those beautiful, distinct swirls. It will instead blend completely into the chocolate.
• Adding Cold Ingredients: Make sure your marshmallow creme is at room temperature before adding it to the hot chocolate mixture. Adding it cold can shock the mixture and make it harder to combine smoothly.
• Over-stirring After Adding Nuts: Once you add the nuts and cranberries, fold them in just until distributed. Over-mixing at this stage can cause the fudge to become too stiff and difficult to spread.
• Not Letting it Set Fully: Impatience is the enemy of good fudge. Cutting into it before it has completely cooled and set at room temperature will result in a messy, gooey texture instead of clean slices.
• Using Stale Nuts: Nuts contain oils that can go rancid over time. Always taste a nut before adding it to your recipe to ensure it is fresh and flavorful, not bitter or stale.
• Refrigerating to Set: While it might be tempting to speed up the process by putting the fudge in the fridge, this can cause condensation to form on the surface and make it sticky. Always allow it to set at room temperature.
• Using Low-Quality Chocolate: The flavor of your fudge is directly dependent on the quality of the chocolate chips you use. Do not use a brand you would not enjoy eating on its own.

Essential Techniques

Melting chocolate properly is the most critical technique for this recipe. The goal is to gently coax the chocolate and condensed milk into a smooth, liquid state without introducing any moisture or excessive heat. Always use a heavy-bottomed saucepan over low to medium heat and stir constantly with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula. The constant motion prevents the mixture from sticking and burning on the bottom of the pan. Remove the pan from the heat as soon as the last chocolate chip melts. The residual heat will continue to melt any remaining bits. If you see any signs of oil separating, you have overheated it.

Folding is the technique used to incorporate the nuts and cranberries without deflating the mixture or over-mixing the fudge. To fold properly, use a spatula to cut down through the center of the mixture, scrape along the bottom of the bowl, and fold the bottom mixture over the top. Rotate the bowl a quarter turn and repeat. This gentle motion distributes the add-ins evenly while maintaining the fudge’s texture. Avoid stirring in a circular motion, as this can break the nuts and make the fudge too stiff. The goal is a uniform distribution with minimal mixing.

Pro Tips for Perfect The Ultimate C.M.N.T Fudge

For an extra depth of flavor, toast your nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes before chopping them. This simple step unlocks their natural oils and creates a richer, nuttier taste that will elevate the entire fudge.

Use a pizza cutter or a large chef’s knife dipped in hot water to achieve perfectly clean cuts on your finished fudge. Wipe the blade clean between each cut for the most professional-looking squares.

If your marshmallow creme is stubborn and difficult to scoop, briefly microwaving the jar for 10-15 seconds will soften it perfectly. This makes it much easier to measure and incorporate into the hot fudge base.

For a truly luxurious gift, consider lining a small gift box with waxed paper and layering the fudge squares inside. You can separate the layers with additional parchment to prevent sticking.

Add a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the fudge immediately after spreading it into the pan. The salty flakes will adhere to the surface and provide an amazing sweet-and-salty flavor burst with every bite.

For a festive twist, swap the dried cranberries for dried cherries or even chopped dried apricots. Each fruit will bring its own unique tartness and color to the final product.

If you want a more intense chocolate flavor, use half semi-sweet and half dark chocolate chips. This combination provides a deeper cocoa profile that chocolate lovers will adore.

Always use real vanilla extract, not imitation vanilla flavoring. The real extract provides a warmer, more complex aroma that complements the chocolate and marshmallow perfectly.

Variations and Adaptations

For regional variations, consider the ingredients famous in your area. Southern-style fudge might feature toasted pecans, while a version from the Pacific Northwest could include hazelnuts and dried cherries. A Rocky Mountain adaptation might use walnuts and dried apples for a different kind of autumn flavor. The basic recipe is a fantastic canvas for local flavors, so feel free to get creative and represent your region’s bounty.

Seasonal adaptations are easy and fun. In the spring, try using dried blueberries and lemon zest for a brighter flavor. For summer, a combination of macadamia nuts and dried pineapple can create a tropical twist. Autumn is perfect for this classic cranberry and nut combo, while winter welcomes the addition of peppermint extract and crushed candy canes for a festive mint chocolate version. Aligning your fudge with the seasons keeps it exciting all year round.

Dietary modifications are straightforward. For a gluten-free version, simply ensure your chocolate chips and other ingredients are certified gluten-free, which most are. To make it dairy-free, use dairy-free chocolate chips and a can of full-fat coconut milk instead of sweetened condensed milk; however, you will need to simmer the coconut milk with sugar to reduce it first. For a vegan version, combine the dairy-free adjustments with vegan marshmallow fluff, which is available online or in health food stores.

Flavor variations are nearly endless. For a cookies and cream fudge, stir in crushed Oreo cookies after removing from the heat. A peanut butter cup version can be made by swirling in spoonfuls of peanut butter. For a rocky road adaptation, increase the marshmallows and add mini marshmallows along with the nuts. Espresso powder can be added to the melting chocolate for a mocha kick. Do not be afraid to experiment with your favorite candy bar inspirations.

Serving and Presentation Guide

Plating techniques for fudge are simple but effective. For a casual gathering, arrange the squares on a simple ceramic platter or a rustic wooden board. For a more elegant presentation, place individual squares in petite paper candy cups and arrange them on a tiered stand. The contrast between the dark chocolate and the festive liners looks beautiful and makes serving effortless. Always use a spatula to transfer the fudge to prevent fingerprints on the shiny surface.

Garnishing ideas can elevate your fudge from homemade to professional. A light dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar just before serving adds a touch of elegance. You can also drizzle melted white chocolate over the top in a zigzag pattern for a decorative effect. For a festive touch during the holidays, press a small edible gold star or a single cranberry onto the center of each piece while the fudge is still soft.

Traditional accompaniments for rich chocolate fudge include a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee. The bitterness of coffee contrasts wonderfully with the sweetness of the candy. For a dessert platter, pair it with other light treats like shortbread cookies or fresh fruit to balance the richness. A cheese plate with sharp cheddar might seem unusual, but the combination of sharp cheese and sweet fudge is a classic pairing in some regions.

Wine and Beverage Pairing

Wine pairings for this fudge should focus on balancing its sweetness. A late-harvest Riesling or a Tawny Port are excellent choices because their inherent sweetness matches that of the fudge without being cloying. The honeyed notes in the Riesling complement the marshmallow, while the nutty characteristics of the Port mirror the walnuts or pecans in the recipe. A rich Cabernet Sauvignon can also work surprisingly well if you prefer dry wines, as its tannins cut through the fat of the chocolate.

For non-alcoholic alternatives, you cannot go wrong with a glass of cold milk—it is a timeless pairing for a reason. A dark roast coffee or a espresso provides a bitter contrast that highlights the sweetness of the fudge. If you prefer something colder, a chocolate stout or cream soda would also be delightful. The creamy vanilla notes in cream soda particularly complement the marshmallow component of the fudge beautifully.

Temperature considerations are key for beverage pairing. Serve white dessert wines and milk well chilled. Red wines like Port should be served slightly below room temperature, around 60-65°F. Coffee should be served hot to provide the maximum contrast to the cool, firm fudge. Ultimately, the goal is to have a beverage that cleanses the palate between bites, allowing you to fully appreciate the complex flavors each time.

Storage and Shelf Life

Proper storage is essential for maintaining the texture and flavor of your fudge. Always store it in an airtight container at cool room temperature. Layering the squares between sheets of parchment or wax paper will prevent them from sticking together. Do not store fudge in the refrigerator, as it can cause condensation to form, making the surface sticky and potentially promoting sugar bloom. If you must refrigerate it due to a warm climate, bring it to room temperature in the sealed container before serving to avoid moisture.

The shelf life of this fudge is quite impressive due to its high sugar content. When stored properly in an airtight container, it will remain fresh and delicious for up to two weeks. You may notice the texture becoming slightly firmer over time, but the flavor will still be excellent. Signs of spoilage are rare but include mold growth (which looks like fuzzy spots) or an off, rancid smell from the nuts. If you see or smell anything unusual, it is best to discard the batch.

Freezing is a great option for long-term storage. Wrap the entire block or individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a heavy-duty freezer bag or airtight container. Frozen fudge can be kept for up to three months. To thaw, transfer it to the refrigerator overnight and then let it come to room temperature in its packaging to prevent condensation. The texture may be slightly different after freezing, but it will still be very enjoyable.

Make Ahead Strategies

This fudge is an ideal make-ahead dessert, as its flavor actually improves after a day or two. The ingredients have time to meld together, resulting in a more cohesive and complex taste. You can easily prepare it up to a week before you need to serve it. Simply store the whole block, well-wrapped, in an airtight container at cool room temperature. Cut it into squares the day you plan to serve it for the freshest appearance.

For the best quality, complete the entire recipe through the setting stage. Do not add any fresh garnishes like a dusting of powdered sugar until just before serving, as they can dissolve or become absorbed over time. If you are planning to give it as a gift, making it a few days in advance is perfect. This allows you to focus on packaging and presentation on the day you need it, reducing last-minute stress.

Scaling Instructions

Scaling this recipe up or down is straightforward because it is based on ratios. To halve the recipe, simply use half of every ingredient and prepare it in a smaller saucepan. An 8×4 inch loaf pan is the perfect size for a half-batch. The cooking times will remain roughly the same, but keep a close eye on it as a smaller volume may heat through more quickly.

Doubling or tripling the recipe is also possible, but requires some adjustments. Use a very large, heavy-bottomed pot to accommodate the greater volume. You may need to increase the melting and stirring time slightly to ensure everything is evenly heated and combined. For a double batch, use a 9×13 inch pan. For a triple batch, you may need to use two 9×9 inch pans. Stir even more diligently to prevent the bottom from scorching due to the increased depth of the mixture.

Nutritional Deep Dive

Understanding the nutritional profile of this indulgent treat helps with mindful enjoyment. A typical piece is rich in calories, primarily from sugars and fats. The carbohydrates come from the chocolate, condensed milk, marshmallow, and cranberries, providing a quick source of energy. The fats are mostly from the chocolate and nuts, which include both saturated and unsaturated types. The nuts also contribute a small amount of protein and fiber, which can help promote a feeling of fullness.

From a micronutrient perspective, this fudge offers some benefits. The dark chocolate provides iron, magnesium, copper, and manganese. The walnuts are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and contain biotin and vitamin E. Dried cranberries contribute vitamin C, vitamin E, and vitamin K. While it is certainly a dessert, it is made with real food ingredients that provide more nutritional value than a highly processed candy bar. Enjoying a small piece can satisfy a sweet craving while providing some beneficial nutrients.

Dietary Adaptations

Creating a gluten-free version of this fudge is simple because the core ingredients are naturally gluten-free. However, you must diligently check all labels. Some brands of chocolate chips may be processed in facilities that also handle wheat, and some marshmallow creams may contain gluten-based stabilizers. Look for products that are certified gluten-free. As long as you use verified ingredients, the recipe remains unchanged and is a safe and delicious option for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

For a dairy-free adaptation, you will need to make two key substitutions. First, use dairy-free chocolate chips, which are widely available. Second, replace the sweetened condensed milk. You can make your own by slowly simmering a can of full-fat coconut milk with about ¼ cup of sugar until it reduces by nearly half and thickens significantly. This creates a rich, sweet base similar to condensed milk. Ensure your marshmallow creme is also dairy-free, and you will have a fantastic vegan-friendly fudge that everyone can enjoy.

Troubleshooting Guide

If your fudge is too soft and does not set properly, the most common cause is undercooking the initial chocolate and condensed milk mixture. It must be heated enough for the ingredients to fully combine and thicken slightly. Another cause could be a very warm or humid kitchen, which can prevent setting. If this happens, you can try placing the pan in a cooler spot. As a last resort, refrigeration can help firm it up, but be aware of potential condensation issues.

Grainy texture is almost always a result of overheating the chocolate, causing it to seize. Once this happens, it is difficult to fix. Prevention is key: use low heat and stir constantly. If your fudge is too hard or crumbly, it may have been cooked too long or stirred too vigorously after adding the nuts. Unfortunately, this is also not reversible, but crumbled fudge makes a fantastic ice cream topping.

Recipe Success Stories

The response to this C.M.N.T fudge recipe has been overwhelmingly positive from our community of home bakers. Many readers have reported that it has become their go-to holiday gift, with some even starting small seasonal businesses selling it. One reader shared that she now makes a double batch every year—one for gifts and one for her family to enjoy, and it is the first dessert to disappear from their holiday table.

Photography tips from our community highlight the importance of natural light. Taking pictures of the fudge near a window in the daytime shows off the glossy chocolate and the vibrant colors of the cranberries. A macro lens or setting is great for capturing the texture of the nuts and the swirls of marshmallow. Some readers have created beautiful flat-lay images with festive napkins, holiday greenery, and a glass of milk, which perfectly sets the scene for this indulgent treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Additional Resources

If you enjoyed making this Ultimate C.M.N.T Fudge Recipe for Festive Indulgence, you might love exploring other classic candy recipes on our site. Our detailed guide to perfect peppermint bark is another fantastic holiday project that requires no baking. For those who want to try their hand at traditional fudge with a candy thermometer, we have a step-by-step tutorial that demystifies the process. We also have a whole section dedicated to easy edible gifts that are perfect for neighbors, teachers, and friends.

For mastering the techniques used in this recipe, our article on “How to Melt Chocolate Perfectly Every Time” covers everything from double boilers to microwaves. If you are curious about the history of American confections, our deep dive into the story of fudge is a fascinating read. Finally, for more holiday baking inspiration, browse our collection of Christmas cookies, bars, and candies that are sure to make your season bright and delicious.

Chef Billy

I’m Billy, a classically trained culinary school graduate from The Culinary Institute of America with over 12 years in the restaurant industry and over 19 years of cooking experience.