Introduction
This rich, creamy caramel nut fudge is a classic old-fashioned confection made with butter, sugar, sweetened milk, and crunchy nuts. The texture is smooth and chewy, and it sets beautifully into clean, glossy squares. Perfect for holidays, gifting, or anytime you want a luxurious homemade treat.
Ingredients
For a large batch (about 36–48 squares):
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1½–2 cups chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, peanuts, or mixed)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan
Line a 9×13 pan with parchment paper and lightly butter it. - Cook the Caramel Base
In a heavy saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, butter, heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, and corn syrup.
Place over medium heat, stirring constantly until the butter melts and the mixture becomes smooth. - Bring to Temperature
Continue cooking, stirring often, until the caramel reaches 236–240°F (soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
This step is crucial for the fudge to set properly. - Remove From Heat & Flavor
Once it reaches temperature, remove from heat and stir in:
- salt
- vanilla extract
- Add Nuts
Stir in 1½–2 cups of chopped nuts until evenly distributed. - Pour & Set
Immediately pour the caramel mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Allow it to cool at room temperature for several hours, or refrigerate to speed up the setting. - Cut Into Squares
Once firm, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper and cut into even squares.
Methods / Tips
- Stir continuously to prevent burning along the bottom edge of the pot.
- For extra-smooth fudge, avoid scraping the sides of the pot when pouring.
- For firmer fudge, cook to 242°F; for softer fudge, stop at 236°F.
- Pecans give the softest bite; peanuts give more crunch.
History
Caramel fudge evolved from old European caramel candy techniques in the 1800s and became popular in American kitchens in the early 1900s when home candy-making surged. Traditional recipes relied on simple ingredients—sugar, butter, cream—making it a favorite around holidays and family gatherings.
Benefits
- Long shelf-life
- Perfect for gifting
- Requires only basic pantry ingredients
- Customizable with nuts, chocolate, sea salt, or spices
Nutrition (approx. per piece)
(Varies with size)
- Calories: 160–200
- Fat: 8–10g
- Sugar: 20–25g
- Protein: 1–2g
Conclusion
This caramel nut fudge is a soft, buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treat that delivers pure caramel flavor with a lovely crunch from the nuts. It’s simple to make, beautiful to serve, and always disappears fast.
