Quest for fudge at Charlie Browns

During the holiday season I often reminisce about long ago holidays, and those memories always include days of indulging in my grandma's homemade fudge. And these days, those memories of grandma's fudge make me think of Charlie Brown Farms in Littlerock, California, where they make the fudge just like Grandma used to.

So, one fine day during the week between Christmas and New Years, my friend Leila and I set out for Littlerock, just southeast of Palmdale. It was a fun day trip for both of us – Leila's first trip to Charlie Browns – and my personal quest for that delicious fudge.

Neither of us were disappointed. And we certainly weren't alone.

The place was hoppin' with other visitors, as is normal for Charlie Browns – it's a great stop off for travelers, and it's a great destination in and of itself, as well. The food at the deli is delicious and prepared to order, and the huge building and grounds hold all sorts of unique and unusual foodstuffs, gifts and decor.

Charlie Brown Farms opened originally in 1929 as a fruit stand, but today it sits on six acres and still offers fruit and produce, and oh so much more. From the outside it doesn't seem that big but once you get inside you wander from room to room, with several different areas offering a variety of goodies, gifts and some very unique oddities.

It's hard to describe, but the place is jam-packed full of stuff. Note: it is wheelchair accessible but be aware that the aisles are narrow, and the place is also usually packed with people. The restrooms are outside and have a step up to get into them.

In addition to fruits and other produce, plus honey, preserves, exotic meats, nuts and seeds, Charlie Brown's also offers a plethora of standard and unique candies – like double chocolate banana chips and watermelon coconut fruit slices and a variety of gummies – homemade fudges and other chocolate delights, and a wide selection of jerkies.

The inhouse deli also offers ice cream treats and a full breakfast and lunch menu. Leila and I had burgers but the choices are vast, including tri-tip, pulled pork or b-b-q, fresh salads, fries and onion rings, kid's meals, vegan chili or burgers, wraps, or any one of several deep-fried items. I can't even remember all they offer. By the way, there are seats inside and outside to sit and enjoy the meal, and much of what is sold there are meals to-go for locals.

Back in the various rooms are a number of retro pieces, games, military memorabilia, souvenirs, toys, jewelry, candles, stuffed animals, t-shirts, dolls, clocks and wall art, and a lot of garden art and displays, including steppingstones, planters and accessories, wall hangings and life-sized statuary. I know I'm forgetting to mention some things, there is just so much there!

If you go: take Highway 58 East to Mojave and then take the 14 freeway South toward Lancaster and Palmdale. Exit onto the 138 East (which is Palmdale Boulevard, just past the P Street exit). Continue east on 138 (which takes you through quite a bit of city driving through Palmdale). At 47th Street East you'll hit a round-about – stay to the right and stay on 138 (which becomes Pearblossom Highway) and go a few more miles to Littlerock.

In Littlerock, Charlie Brown Farms will be on your left at 8317 Pearblossom Highway (just past the light at 82nd Street East). The store is open every day from 8 to 8; the phone number is (661) 944-2606.

Both Leila and I had a ball checking out all the wonders at Charlie Brown Farms, and I think you will too. I came home with some delicious homemade fudge plus a bag of homemade milk chocolate peanut clusters (also delish!) – and Leila scored a variety of turtle candies and some Christmas cards.

A successful quest and a very fun day for both of us!

P.S. No photos are available of the sweets we got because they have all been eaten!

© 2024 Mel Makaw. Mel is a local writer and photographer and avid day-tripper; she welcomes your comments, questions, and suggestions at [email protected].