Salt meets sweet in perfect harmony with salted caramel fudge—a velvety, buttery treat kissed by sea salt’s tantalizing touch. This ultimate recipe will elevate your confectionery skills, delivering rich flavors and a melt-in-your-mouth texture that turns every bite into an unforgettable indulgence. Whether you’re a seasoned candy maker or a curious kitchen adventurer, prepare to discover the secrets behind crafting irresistible salted caramel fudge that will quickly become a beloved staple in your dessert repertoire.
Irresistible Salted Caramel Fudge begins with mastering the perfect salted caramel base-a luscious, buttery canvas that transforms simple fudge into a luxurious treat. this rich, creamy foundation is what lends this dessert its signature depth of flavor and indulgent texture. By unlocking a few key ingredients and following precise step-by-step techniques, you’ll achieve flawless, melt-in-your-mouth fudge that delights at every bite.
Prep and Cook Time
- Planning: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 20 minutes
- Cooling and Setting: 4 hours (preferably overnight)
Yield
Approximately 36 bite-sized pieces (2-inch squares)
difficulty Level
Medium - Perfect for those with a basic understanding of candy-making but approachable for any home cook eager to impress.
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 3/4 cup heavy cream, warmed
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 tsp flaky sea salt, plus extra for finishing
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp light brown sugar, packed (optional, for extra caramel depth)
Instructions
- Prepare your pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy fudge removal. Lightly grease the paper.
- Create the caramel: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and light corn syrup over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar begins to dissolve, then let it cook undisturbed until a deep amber caramel forms (about 8-10 minutes). Be vigilant to prevent burning.
- Incorporate butter and cream: Remove the pan from heat and carefully whisk in the butter until melted. Slowly add the warm heavy cream while stirring continuously. The mixture will bubble vigorously-this is normal. Return to low heat, stirring until smooth and silky.
- Add sweetened condensed milk and chocolate: Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and then fold in the white chocolate chips until fully melted and glossy. This infusion balances caramel’s richness with creamy sweetness.
- Finish with flavor: Mix in the vanilla extract and flaky sea salt. The salt sharpens the caramel notes and lifts the overall flavor profile.
- Pour and set: transfer the fudge mixture to the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle a pinch of extra flaky sea salt over the surface for a lovely, gourmet touch.
- Cool and chill: Let the fudge cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until firm.
- Cut and serve: Using a sharp knife warmed under hot water and dried, cut into even squares. Clean the knife between cuts for perfect edges.
Tips for Success with Salted Caramel Fudge
- Consistency check: to test caramel readiness, let a teaspoon drip into cold water-it should form a soft but firm ball. This ensures perfect texture without graininess.
- Temperature control: Use a candy thermometer to monitor the caramel mixture, aiming for 240°F (115°C) for a smooth fudge finish.
- Chocolate choice: White chocolate adds a gentle sweetness that balances salt and caramel. Avoid baking chocolate, which can be bitter.
- Flavor customize: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of bourbon in place of vanilla for a variation with an adult twist.
- Make-ahead advantage: Fudge can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or frozen up to 3 months-just thaw at room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Salted Caramel Fudge Experience
serve chilled on a rustic wooden board or a sleek glass platter to highlight each decadent square. Garnish with extra flaky sea salt crystals and a light dusting of edible gold shimmer for unforgettable presentation. Pair the fudge with robust coffee, aged whiskey, or a glass of rich dessert wine to complement its creamy, buttery layers. For special occasions, add dollops of whipped cream or a few crushed toasted pecans on the side for added texture contrast.
| Nutritional Info (per piece) | Calories | Protein (g) | Carbs (g) | Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Salted Caramel Fudge | 120 | 1.2 | 18.4 | 6.5 |
For an inspiring twist, explore our Decadent Chocolate Fudge recipe, a perfect partner for this salted caramel version. To deepen your understanding of caramel chemistry, visit Cook’s Illustrated caramel guide.
Q&A
Q&A: Irresistible Salted Caramel Fudge – The Ultimate Recipe Reveal
Q1: What makes salted caramel fudge so irresistible?
A1: It’s the magical marriage of rich, creamy chocolate and buttery caramel, perfectly balanced with a sprinkle of sea salt. This trifecta creates a flavor explosion-sweet and salty, smooth yet slightly crunchy-that tantalizes your taste buds with every bite.
Q2: How tough is it to make salted caramel fudge at home?
A2: Surprisingly easy! With the right ingredients and a bit of patience, even novice bakers can whip up a batch. The key is paying attention to the caramel stage and allowing the fudge to set properly. Our recipe breaks it down into simple, foolproof steps.
Q3: what ingredients do I absolutely need for the perfect salted caramel fudge?
A3: You’ll want high-quality butter, granulated sugar, sweetened condensed milk, dark or milk chocolate chips, pure vanilla extract, and flaky sea salt. Using premium ingredients ensures that deep, luscious flavor and that creamy texture you crave.
Q4: Can I customize the flavor of the fudge?
A4: Definitely! While the classic salted caramel combo is divine, feel free to add roasted nuts for crunch, a dash of espresso powder to deepen the chocolate notes, or even a swirl of bourbon for an adult twist. The recipe is your canvas.
Q5: What’s the secret tip for getting the caramel just right?
A5: Patience is key. Cook the caramel mixture on medium heat, stirring constantly to avoid burning, until it reaches a golden amber hue. Using a candy thermometer to hit about 240°F (soft-ball stage) guarantees that perfect, chewy texture.
Q6: How should I store my salted caramel fudge to keep it fresh?
A6: Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate it, but bring it back to room temperature before serving to enjoy that melt-in-your-mouth softness.
Q7: Is salted caramel fudge a good gift idea?
A7: Absolutely! Wrapped in parchment paper and tied with a rustic ribbon, salted caramel fudge makes for a thoughtful, homemade gift that impresses at holidays, birthdays, or just because. It’s a sweet gesture that always hits the mark.
Q8: Can I make salted caramel fudge vegan or dairy-free?
A8: Yes! Swap butter for coconut oil, use coconut cream or a vegan condensed milk option, and choose dairy-free chocolate chips. The flavor will be just as decadent, proving anyone can indulge in this sweet treat.
Q9: How do I know when the fudge is perfectly set?
A9: After pouring the mixture into a lined pan, let it cool at room temperature for a few hours. The fudge should be firm to the touch but still soft enough to cut easily. When your knife glides through cleanly without sticking, you know it’s ready.
Q10: Why is sea salt vital in this recipe?
A10: Sea salt enhances all the flavors by cutting through the sweetness and highlighting the caramel’s buttery richness. Its subtle crunch adds a delightful texture contrast, turning simple fudge into an remarkable taste experience.
To Conclude
Each bite of this salted caramel fudge reveals pure indulgence—rich buttery caramel perfectly balanced with a touch of sea salt. This easy recipe turns simple ingredients into a decadent treat you can’t resist. Perfect for gifting or savoring yourself, it promises pure bliss. Ready to whip up your own batch of deliciousness?
