Food - Bud Elwell's Old Fashioned Fudge

Old Fashioned Fudge Recipes Win State Fair Honors

Diane Shaw of Pella won first place and a $250 cash award in the Bud Elwell’s Old Fashioned Fudge competition judged Saturday, August 12, at the 2023 Iowa State Fair.

Marianne Carlson of Jefferson claimed second place and $100. Robin Tarbell-Thomas of Centerville earned third place and $50.

Contestants were tasked to create an award-worthy fudge made without marshmallows, marshmallow crème or peanut butter.

Entries were judged on taste and texture.

The Iowa State Fair Food Department is the largest of any state fair in the country. There are 138 divisions, 695 classes and over 6,800 entries at this year’s Fair. Food Department judging is held in the Elwell Family Food Center.