Easy Caramel Fudge

Looking for a sweet and indulgent treat that’s quick and easy to make? This Easy Caramel Fudge is the answer! With its creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich caramel flavor, this fudge is perfect for holidays, parties, or any time you need a sweet snack. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal effort. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious dessert at home!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Easy Caramel Fudge, gather the following ingredients:

  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pan: Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or greasing it lightly. This will make it easier to remove the fudge once it’s set.
  2. Melt the Butter and Brown Sugar: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter and brown sugar. Stir frequently until the mixture is smooth and the butter is fully melted. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk: Pour in the sweetened condensed milk, stirring to combine. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly. Keep simmering for about 5-6 minutes until the fudge mixture thickens.
  4. Mix in the Vanilla and Salt: Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt. This adds a touch of flavor balance to the sweetness of the fudge.
  5. Melt the White Chocolate Chips: Add the white chocolate chips to the hot fudge mixture. Stir continuously until the chips are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
  6. Pour into the Pan: Once the fudge mixture is fully combined and smooth, pour it into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula.
  7. Chill: Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until fully set.
  8. Cut and Serve: Once the fudge is firm, remove it from the pan and cut it into small squares. Serve and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Caramel Fudge

  • Stir Constantly: The key to making smooth and creamy fudge is to stir the mixture constantly while it’s cooking. This prevents burning and ensures even heating.
  • Use High-Quality Ingredients: Since there are so few ingredients, quality really matters. Choose high-quality butter and white chocolate for the best flavor.
  • Customize Your Fudge: Feel free to get creative with mix-ins! Add crushed nuts, a swirl of caramel sauce, or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra touch of flavor.

How to Store Caramel Fudge

Once you’ve made this easy caramel fudge, you’ll want to keep it fresh for as long as possible. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate the fudge for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months, but be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.

Why You’ll Love This Caramel Fudge

This Easy Caramel Fudge is the perfect combination of sweetness, creaminess, and richness. It’s easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers that melt-in-your-mouth indulgence that everyone loves. Whether you’re looking for a homemade gift or just a simple dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth, this fudge is sure to become a favorite!

Conclusion

If you’re craving a quick and easy dessert that delivers big on flavor, this Easy Caramel Fudge is your go-to recipe. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can make a batch of this creamy, delicious fudge that’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t forget to customize it with your favorite mix-ins, and enjoy the decadent sweetness of homemade caramel fudge!

Serving and Storage Tips for Easy Caramel Fudge

Serving Tips:

  • Perfect Portioning: When serving your Easy Caramel Fudge, cut it into small squares for bite-sized treats. This makes it easier to share and prevents anyone from overindulging (though it’s hard not to!).
  • Pair with Coffee or Tea: The rich sweetness of caramel fudge pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Serve it as an afternoon treat or after dinner for a delightful dessert experience.
  • Gift Idea: Caramel fudge makes a great homemade gift. Cut the fudge into squares and package them in a decorative box or tin with a ribbon for a thoughtful present during holidays or special occasions.
  • Add Toppings: For an extra special touch, top each piece of fudge with a sprinkle of sea salt, crushed nuts, or a drizzle of melted chocolate before serving.

Storage Tips:

  • Room Temperature: Store your Easy Caramel Fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Keep the fudge in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain its texture and flavor.
  • Refrigeration: If you’d like to store the fudge for a longer period, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. This will help keep the fudge fresh and maintain its smooth, creamy texture.
  • Freezing: For extended storage, you can freeze the fudge for up to 3 months. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, let the fudge thaw at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving.
  • Avoid Moisture: When storing, make sure your container is airtight to prevent moisture from affecting the fudge’s consistency. If stored improperly, the fudge may become sticky or lose its smooth texture.

With these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Easy Caramel Fudge whenever the craving strikes, and ensure it stays fresh for as long as possible!

1. Can I use dark chocolate instead of white chocolate for this fudge?

Yes, you can substitute dark chocolate for white chocolate in this recipe. While it will change the flavor profile, dark chocolate will add a richer, more intense taste to the fudge. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness if needed, as dark chocolate tends to be less sweet than white chocolate.

2. How can I make my caramel fudge less sweet?

If you find the caramel fudge too sweet, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar slightly, or use a semi-sweet or dark chocolate instead of white chocolate. You could also add a pinch of sea salt on top to balance the sweetness with a salty contrast.

3. Can I add nuts to the caramel fudge?

Absolutely! Adding nuts, like pecans, walnuts, or almonds, is a great way to give your caramel fudge a crunchy texture and extra flavor. You can fold them into the fudge mixture before pouring it into the pan, or sprinkle them on top as a garnish.

4. What should I do if my fudge doesn’t set properly?

If your fudge doesn’t set properly, it may be due to not simmering the mixture long enough to thicken. Try placing it back on the stove on low heat and simmering for a few more minutes until the fudge thickens. You can also refrigerate it for longer to help it firm up.

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Easy Caramel Fudge

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  • Author: Stephanie
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert, Candy
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Easy Caramel Fudge is rich, creamy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Made with just a few simple ingredients, it’s a perfect sweet treat for holidays, gifts, or anytime you crave a decadent dessert.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Makes about 16 pieces

  • 1 (14 oz / 396 g) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 cup (200 g) light brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) golden syrup (or light corn syrup)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional, for salted caramel flavor)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pan:
    • Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
  2. Combine the ingredients:
    • In a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, butter, and golden syrup.
  3. Cook the fudge:
    • Heat the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
    • Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Continue stirring for 8-10 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and pulls away slightly from the sides of the pan.
  4. Add flavorings:
    • Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt, if using.
  5. Pour and set:
    • Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Allow it to cool at room temperature for 1-2 hours, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until fully set.
  6. Cut and serve:
    • Once the fudge is firm, lift it out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into small squares and enjoy.



Notes

  • Storage: Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
  • Add-ins: For extra texture, mix in 1/4 cup (30 g) of chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or crushed pretzels before pouring into the pan.
  • Golden Syrup Substitute: If you don’t have golden syrup, use light corn syrup or maple syrup as an alternative.

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