If you’re a fan of rich and creamy treats, you’re in for a real treat! My Salted Caramel Fudge recipe is everything you crave: sweet, salty, and oh-so-satisfying. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up this delightful fudge in no time. Ready to impress your friends and family? Dive in, and let’s create a fudgy masterpiece together!
Ingredients
To make salted caramel fudge, you’ll need a few simple items. Here’s the list of ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
– 2 cups brown sugar, packed
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup corn syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional for topping)
Each ingredient plays an important role in creating that rich, creamy fudge. The unsalted butter gives a smooth texture. Brown sugar adds depth and sweetness. Sweetened condensed milk helps bind everything together, making the fudge creamy. Granulated sugar gives the fudge its structure, while corn syrup helps prevent crystallization, ensuring a smooth finish.
The vanilla extract brings warmth and flavor, while sea salt adds that signature salted touch. If you choose to use chocolate chips, they melt into the fudge, creating pockets of chocolate goodness. For the full recipe, you can find all the steps laid out clearly to guide you through this delicious process.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Step 1: Prepare the pan with parchment paper. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan and grease it lightly. This helps the fudge come out easily later.
– Step 2: Melt the butter in a saucepan. Heat it over medium heat until it is fully melted. This will form the base of your fudge.
– Step 3: Mix the sugars and syrup with the melted butter. Once the butter is melted, add brown sugar, granulated sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir until all sugars dissolve.
– Step 4: Boil until soft-ball stage. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring. Use a candy thermometer if you have one. The mixture should reach about 236°F (113°C). This stage is key for the right texture.
– Step 5: Add vanilla extract and sea salt. Remove the saucepan from heat, and mix in the vanilla and sea salt until well blended. This adds depth to the flavor.
– Step 6: Mix in chocolate chips if desired. For extra richness, stir in semi-sweet chocolate chips. They melt slightly, giving a lovely finish.
– Step 7: Pour and smooth the mixture in the pan. Carefully transfer the warm fudge into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
– Step 8: Chill to set. Let the fudge cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, place it in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This helps it firm up nicely.
– Step 9: Cut into pieces. Once set, lift the fudge out using the parchment. Cut it into small squares or rectangles. You can sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top for added flavor.
Making salted caramel fudge combines fun and flavor. Follow these steps closely for a rich and creamy delight. For the complete recipe, check the full recipe section.
Tips & Tricks
Tips for Perfect Fudge
– Use a candy thermometer for accurate boiling. This tool helps you know when the mix reaches the right heat. It helps make sure your fudge gets that soft texture.
– Stir continuously to avoid burning. Keep your spoon moving while the fudge cooks. This action helps prevent any sugar from sticking to the bottom. If sugar burns, it can ruin the whole batch.
– Allow cooling time to avoid sticky fudge. After cooking, let the fudge cool down. If you cut it too soon, it will be too sticky. Patience is key for the best results!
Presentation Tips
– Arrange on a decorative platter. Use a nice plate to show off your fudge. It makes it look special and ready to share. You can even mix in some fruits or nuts for color.
– Gift ideas for fudge presentation. Wrap pieces in pretty paper or put them in small boxes. This makes a lovely gift for friends or family. You can also stack fudge with parchment paper. It looks nice and keeps it fresh!
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can easily change the taste of salted caramel fudge. One fun way is to add nuts. Pecans or walnuts give a nice crunch. They also add a rich flavor that pairs well with caramel. Simply chop the nuts and fold them into the fudge mixture before pouring it into the pan.
Another option is to swap chocolate chips for butterscotch or white chocolate. Butterscotch brings a sweet, buttery note. White chocolate adds a creamy texture. You can mix these flavors into the fudge to create a fun twist.
Dietary Variations
If you want a sugar-free option, you can use alternative sweeteners. Options like erythritol or stevia can replace regular sugar. This way, you can enjoy fudge without the extra sugar. Just keep in mind that the texture may change slightly.
For those following a vegan diet, you can make easy substitutions. Use coconut oil instead of butter. Swap sweetened condensed milk with coconut cream. These changes keep the fudge creamy and delicious while being plant-based.
For the full recipe, check the earlier section.
Storage Info
How to Store Fudge
To keep your salted caramel fudge fresh, follow these simple steps:
– Cool Completely: Let fudge cool at room temperature.
– Cut and Wrap: Once set, cut it into squares. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap.
– Use Airtight Containers: Place the wrapped fudge in an airtight container. This helps keep moisture out.
Store the fudge in a cool, dry place. It can last up to two weeks on the counter. If you live in a warm area, the fridge is a better choice. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezing Fudge
Freezing fudge is easy and keeps it fresh longer. Here’s how:
1. Wrap Well: Cut the fudge into squares. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
2. Use Freezer Bags: Place the wrapped pieces in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible.
3. Label and Freeze: Mark the bag with the date. Store it in the freezer for up to three months.
To thaw, take the fudge out of the freezer. Let it sit at room temperature for about an hour. Enjoy the rich and creamy delight at your own pace!
FAQs
Common Questions about Salted Caramel Fudge
What is the best way to cut fudge?
To cut fudge, use a sharp knife. First, chill the fudge until firm. Then, remove it from the pan using the overhanging parchment. Slice it into small squares. Clean the knife after each cut for neat edges.
Can I make fudge without a candy thermometer?
Yes, you can. To check the fudge’s readiness, use the cold water test. Drop a small amount into cold water. If it forms a soft ball, it’s ready. This method is simple and effective.
How long does homemade fudge last?
Homemade fudge can last about two weeks at room temperature. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a month.
Is it possible to make salted caramel fudge in the microwave?
Yes, you can make it in the microwave. Melt the butter and sugars in a bowl. Stir frequently and heat in short bursts. Then, follow the same mixing and chilling steps as with the stovetop method.
Where can I find salted caramel fudge locally?
You can find salted caramel fudge at local candy shops or bakeries. Many grocery stores also carry it. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try making it at home using the Full Recipe.
Full Recipe Reference
For the detailed preparation of Salted Caramel Fudge, visit the section with the full recipe.
Salted caramel fudge is a rich and creamy treat that I love. It combines sweet, buttery flavors with a hint of salt. Making it at home is easy, and the taste is amazing.
The first step is to gather your ingredients. You will need:
– 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
– 2 cups brown sugar, packed
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup corn syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional for topping)
I always start by preparing my pan. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This makes it easy to lift out the fudge later. Greasing it helps prevent sticking.
Next, I melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, I add the brown sugar, granulated sugar, corn syrup, and condensed milk. I stir continuously until the sugars dissolve completely.
After blending, I bring the mixture to a gentle boil. I keep stirring and let it boil for about 5-7 minutes. It should reach a soft-ball stage at around 236°F. A candy thermometer is very helpful here.
When the mixture is ready, I remove it from heat. I stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt. If I want a richer taste, I mix in the chocolate chips at this stage.
Then, I carefully pour the fudge into the prepared pan. I smooth the top with a spatula to make it nice. I let it cool at room temperature for 30 minutes. After that, I transfer it to the fridge for at least 2 hours to firm up.
Once set, I lift the fudge out using the overhanging parchment. I cut it into small squares or rectangles. I often sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top for extra flavor.
This salted caramel fudge is perfect for sharing or gifting. It looks great on a platter or in decorative boxes. Enjoy this tasty treat any time!
This blog post covered how to make tasty salted caramel fudge. We explored the simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions. You learned helpful tips for perfecting your fudge and creative variations to try. Proper storage and freezing methods keep your fudge fresh. Remember, making fudge can be easy and fun. Try these tips to impress your friends and family with your treats. Take time to enjoy the process and the sweet results!
