Old-Fashioned Caramel Fudge Recipe
If you have a craving for something irresistibly sweet and nostalgic, look no further than this Old-Fashioned Caramel Fudge Recipe. This classic treat delivers buttery, creamy indulgence with every bite, bringing back fond memories and making new ones. Its rich caramel flavor combined with the perfect fudge texture is guaranteed to become a beloved favorite whether you’re making it for family gatherings, special occasions, or just a cozy night in with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple ingredients, each chosen for its essential role, creating this amazing fudge is straightforward and rewarding. From the creamy richness to the golden color and smooth texture, these components come together harmoniously to make this dessert truly special.
- Granulated sugar: The foundation of sweetness and structure for the fudge, ensuring a smooth finish.
- Light brown sugar: Adds a luscious depth and subtle molasses notes that deepen the caramel flavor.
- Heavy cream: Brings creaminess and richness that makes the fudge melt-in-your-mouth delightful.
- Unsalted butter: Provides buttery flavor and helps create that luxurious smooth texture.
- Light corn syrup: Prevents crystallization so the fudge stays soft and glossy.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the caramel tones with warm, fragrant notes.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and elevates all the flavors beautifully.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Caramel Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave an overhang on the sides for easy removal later on. Lightly grease the paper so the fudge doesn’t stick—this prep step makes cutting and serving a breeze.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
Place the granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, butter pieces, and corn syrup into a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Give it a good stir to bring everything together evenly before heating.
Step 3: Melt and Dissolve
Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently to help the butter melt completely and the sugars dissolve fully. This ensures a smooth, even base for your caramel fudge.
Step 4: Cook to the Soft-Ball Stage
Attach a candy thermometer to the pan and continue cooking without stirring until the mixture reaches 240°F. This “soft-ball” stage is crucial for the fudge’s perfect texture, so patience here pays off wonderfully.
Step 5: Cool Briefly
Remove the pan from the heat and let the caramel mixture cool undisturbed for 5 minutes. This slight cooling helps it thicken just enough to start the beating process.
Step 6: Beat Until Thick
Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Using a wooden spoon, beat the mixture vigorously until it becomes thick and loses its glossy sheen. This typically takes 5 to 7 minutes and is key to that iconic fudge consistency.
Step 7: Pour and Set
Pour the thickened fudge into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Let it sit at room temperature until completely cool and set before cutting into squares.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once set, cut the fudge into squares and get ready to share or savor each delicious bite of your homemade treasure.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Caramel Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
Though this candy shines on its own, a light sprinkling of flaky sea salt on top just before it sets can add a delightful contrast to the sweet caramel. For a festive touch, chopped toasted nuts or a drizzle of melted chocolate can elevate every bite into an elegant treat.
Side Dishes
This rich Old-Fashioned Caramel Fudge pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, as its sweetness complements the bitterness perfectly. It’s also fantastic alongside fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to brighten your dessert platter.
Creative Ways to Present
Wrap individual fudge pieces in decorative parchment or cellophane and tie with twine for charming homemade gifts. Layer the fudge squares in a glass jar with wax paper in between for a stunning presentation that’s perfect for sharing or displaying.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Old-Fashioned Caramel Fudge Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature, ideally in a cool, dry place. Properly stored, it stays delicious and soft for up to two weeks, ready whenever you need a sweet pick-me-up.
Freezing
You can freeze the fudge for longer storage by wrapping pieces individually in wax paper and then sealing them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature when needed, and the texture remains as luscious as fresh, perfect for making in advance.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat fudge since it’s best enjoyed cool and firm. If it becomes too hard, just let it sit at room temperature for a bit before serving to allow it to soften slightly for that melt-in-your-mouth magic.
FAQs
Can I use different types of sugar in this recipe?
While granulated and light brown sugar are traditional for achieving that perfect caramel flavor and texture, you can experiment with darker brown sugar for a richer taste, though it may slightly alter the fudge’s color and sweetness.
What if I don’t have a candy thermometer?
Without a candy thermometer, you can test the soft-ball stage by dropping a small amount of the hot mixture into cold water. If it forms a soft, pliable ball when rolled between your fingers, it’s ready.
How long does it take for the fudge to set?
The fudge typically takes several hours to cool and set completely at room temperature. For quicker results, you can place it in the refrigerator, but avoid rushing the process too much to preserve texture.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Stirring in chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even chocolate chips right before pouring the fudge into the pan adds delightful texture variations and extra flavor layers.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, try substituting the heavy cream and butter with coconut cream and a dairy-free butter alternative. This may change the flavor slightly but will still yield a delicious fudge treat.
Final Thoughts
Making this Old-Fashioned Caramel Fudge Recipe is like giving yourself a warm, sweet hug. It’s comforting, utterly flavorful, and surprisingly simple to pull off at home. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying it yourself, this fudge is sure to brighten your day and keep you coming back for more. So gather your ingredients and start your fudge-making adventure—you won’t regret it!
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Old-Fashioned Caramel Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 36 servings 1x
Description
This Old-Fashioned Caramel Fudge recipe delivers a rich and creamy treat with the perfect balance of buttery caramel and sweet vanilla flavors. Made from scratch with simple ingredients, this classic fudge sets up beautifully for a nostalgic, melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s perfect for holidays, gift-giving, or indulging any time.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal of the fudge once set. Lightly grease the parchment to prevent sticking.
- Combine ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, heavy cream, butter pieces, and light corn syrup. Stir briefly to mix.
- Heat the mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir frequently until the butter has melted completely and the sugar has dissolved into the cream, ensuring an even mixture.
- Cook to soft-ball stage: Attach a candy thermometer to the saucepan. Stop stirring and let the mixture cook undisturbed until it reaches 240°F (soft-ball stage) on the candy thermometer, indicating the right consistency for fudge.
- Cool slightly: Remove the pan from heat and allow the mixture to cool undisturbed for 5 minutes to stabilize before beating.
- Add flavor and beat: Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Using a wooden spoon, beat the mixture vigorously for 5-7 minutes until it thickens and develops a slightly dull sheen, signaling it is ready to set.
- Pour and spread: Quickly pour the thickened fudge mixture into the prepared pan. Spread the surface evenly with a spatula to ensure a uniform thickness.
- Cool and cut: Allow the fudge to cool completely at room temperature until firm. Then lift it out using the parchment overhang and cut into 36 small squares to serve.
Notes
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent scorching during cooking.
- Do not stir once the mixture reaches 240°F to allow proper crystallization.
- A candy thermometer is essential for accurate temperature control to achieve the soft-ball stage.
- Beat the fudge until it loses its glossy shine and thickens to ensure proper texture.
- Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks or refrigerate for longer storage.
- Ensure to use light corn syrup which helps prevent sugar crystallization for smooth fudge.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
