Sweet & Smooth: Maple Fudge Recipe

Name: Sweet & Smooth: Maple Fudge Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 16 pieces
Ingredients: 2 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Create a delightful treat this holiday season with this Sweet & Smooth Maple Fudge recipe. This creamy, melt-in-your-mouth fudge boasts rich maple flavor, making it the perfect addition to your Christmas cookie platter or as a charming homemade gift. Simple to make and beautifully packaged, this fudge will elevate your festive celebrations.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-11-29T10:47:19.341Z

Maple fudge is a holiday favorite that brings nostalgia and warmth to any gathering. The rich flavor of maple syrup combined with creamy sweetness creates a delicious experience for everyone.

Delightful Holiday Treats

During the holiday season, it’s important to create moments of joy and warmth with your loved ones. This Maple Fudge recipe provides just the right balance of sweetness and maple richness, making it an exceptional treat that everyone adores. Whether it’s placed on a Christmas cookie platter or enjoyed as an afternoon snack, this fudge will draw in friends and family alike.

One of the best aspects of making fudge is the versatility it offers. You can customize this recipe to include nuts, spices, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top. Such additions can enhance the flavor profile and make the fudge uniquely yours. Where traditional chocolates may feel common, your homemade maple fudge will definitely stand out!

Perfect for Gifting

Homemade treats make for unforgettable gifts, and this Maple Fudge fits the bill perfectly. With just a few simple ingredients, you will create a luxurious gift that feels thoughtful and special. Package the fudge in a decorative tin or wrap it with colorful cellophane to elevate its presentation. Friends and family will appreciate the personal touch and the effort you put into making something from scratch.

Additionally, fudge has a longer shelf life compared to many other baked goods, making it great for holiday gifting. Prepare a batch or two, and share delicious moments with your neighbors or coworkers. Your holiday treat will not only spread cheer but also showcase your culinary skills, leaving recipients excited for more.

Cooking Tips for Success

To ensure your maple fudge turns out perfectly every time, attention to detail is key. When cooking the mixture, make sure not to stir it once it begins to boil. This allows the sugar to reach the correct temperature without crystallizing. Use a candy thermometer for accuracy; you want the mixture to reach a soft ball stage, which is around 235°F (113°C).

Additionally, patience is crucial when cooling the fudge. Allow it to set at room temperature for at least a few hours before cutting. This will give it the perfect texture, resulting in a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Rushing through these steps may compromise the fudge consistency, so take your time to make it just right.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your fudge:

Ingredients

2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your maple fudge:

Prepare the Pan

Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

Cook the Mixture

In a saucepan, combine sugar, butter, cream, maple syrup, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the mixture reaches a boil.

Stir and Cool

Once boiling, stop stirring and let it boil for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

Pour into the Pan

Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and let it cool at room temperature until set.

Cut and Serve

Once cooled and set, lift the fudge out using the overhanging parchment paper. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Storing Your Maple Fudge

Once you’ve cut your fudge into squares, store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If you plan to keep them for a while, consider placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Fudge stored this way can last for up to three weeks, though we doubt it will last that long!

For long-term storage, you can also freeze your maple fudge. Wrap the pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This method allows you to enjoy your holiday treat even months later, offering a delicious taste of the festive season at any time.

Variations and Customizations

The beauty of this Maple Fudge recipe lies in its adaptability. Want to add a twist? Consider incorporating crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch. Chocolate lovers may even drizzle melted chocolate on top for an elegant finish, marrying the flavors of maple and chocolate harmoniously.

You might also explore using flavored extracts, such as almond or hazelnut, to create a unique twist on the classic maple taste. Whatever variations you choose, remember that experimentation can lead to delightful surprises. Don't hesitate to make this recipe your own, and enjoy the creative process!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of sugar?

Using brown sugar will give a different flavor and texture. You can experiment but aim for a similar consistency.

→ How should I store leftover fudge?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer shelf life.