Description
Deliciously rich and creamy Maple Walnut Fudge made with real maple syrup, heavy cream, and crunchy walnuts. This homemade fudge combines the natural sweetness of maple with a smooth, buttery texture and a nutty crunch, perfect for gifting or enjoying as a sweet treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Fudge Base
- 1 ½ cups real maple syrup
- 1 ¾ cups granulated white sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon maple extract
Walnuts
- 1 cup roughly chopped walnuts
- a few more walnuts for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8-inch square pan with foil, then spray it with nonstick spray to ensure easy removal of the fudge once set.
- Combine ingredients and cook: In a medium saucepan, combine the maple syrup, granulated sugar, heavy whipping cream, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly to dissolve sugar and prevent scorching.
- Cook to the right temperature: Once boiling, attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan and continue cooking without stirring for 7 to 8 minutes until the thermometer reads 238 degrees Fahrenheit (soft-ball stage).
- Beat the fudge: Remove the pan from heat. Using an electric mixer, beat in the unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and maple extract. Continue beating for 8 to 10 minutes until the fudge thickens, becomes light colored, and loses its glossy sheen.
- Add walnuts and spread: Stir in 1 cup of roughly chopped walnuts, then spread the fudge evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle additional walnuts on top for decoration.
- Let it set: Allow the fudge to firm up at room temperature for about 25 minutes before cutting into 36 pieces and serving.
Notes
- Achieving the correct temperature and consistency is crucial for perfect fudge; use a reliable candy thermometer.
- Kitchen temperature and humidity can affect fudge texture, so monitor the process carefully.
- Using electric mixer after cooking helps achieve the creamy texture.
- You can substitute walnuts with pecans or other nuts if preferred.
- Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Line the pan with foil for easy removal of fudge blocks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 30 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
