If there is one candy that brings a warm nostalgic feeling alongside a rich, buttery sweetness, it’s the Old-Fashioned Caramel Fudge Recipe. This classic treat takes you back to simpler times with its smooth, creamy texture and deep caramel flavor that melts in your mouth. Perfect for sharing or treating yourself, this fudge will soon become one of your all-time favorite handmade sweets. It’s easy to make with a few straightforward ingredients that come together to create absolute magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Old-Fashioned Caramel Fudge Recipe is simple, but essential — every element plays a key role in achieving that perfect texture, flavor, and color that fudge lovers adore.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and the perfect crystalline structure for the fudge.
- 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark): Adds a delectable depth with molasses notes and moisture.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a rich, creamy base and tender texture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cut into pieces): Brings richness and silkiness to the fudge.
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup: Helps prevent crystallization and maintains smoothness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the caramel flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the caramel’s complexity.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Caramel Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly greasing it. This prevents sticking and makes it easier to remove your beautifully set fudge later on.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients and Heat
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan set over medium heat, stir together granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, corn syrup, and salt. Keep stirring constantly until the butter melts and the sugars dissolve completely. This is where the magic begins—making sure your base is perfectly blended leads to that luscious caramel flavor.
Step 3: Cook to Soft Ball Stage
Attach a candy thermometer to the side of your pan. Let the mixture cook without stirring until it reaches 238°F, known as the soft ball stage. This usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Patience here is key because that temperature is crucial for achieving the perfect fudge consistency.
Step 4: Cool the Mixture
Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture sit undisturbed for about 5 minutes, or until it cools down to around 110°F. Cooling is what stops the cooking process and prepares the fudge for beating.
Step 5: Beat Until Creamy
Add the vanilla extract and then beat the fudge mixture using a wooden spoon or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment. Continue beating until the mixture thickens, turns creamy, and loses its glossy sheen. This step takes about 8 to 10 minutes by hand, but the end result is totally worth the effort.
Step 6: Pour and Set
Quickly pour your thickened fudge into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Let it set at room temperature for several hours or until firm. Once set, cut into small squares and get ready to indulge in that dreamy texture and flavor of homemade caramel fudge.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Caramel Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
Though the Old-Fashioned Caramel Fudge Recipe stands strong on its own, adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a few toasted pecan pieces on top before it sets takes it over the top. These garnishes add a delightful contrast in flavor and texture, enhancing the overall experience.
Side Dishes
Pair your fudge squares with a cup of robust coffee or a mellow black tea. The warmth of the drinks perfectly complements the buttery sweetness of the caramel fudge. Alternatively, serving alongside fresh fruit slices like apples or pears gives a fresh balance to the rich treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Wrap individual fudge squares in wax paper or place them in small decorative boxes for charming homemade gifts. You can also stack them on a rustic wooden board or plate adorned with edible gold leaf to elevate their visual appeal at parties or special gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The great thing about this Old-Fashioned Caramel Fudge Recipe is that it keeps beautifully at room temperature. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain their soft, creamy texture and irresistible flavor.
Freezing
If you want to keep your fudge longer, it freezes wonderfully. Wrap pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then use a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature before serving to preserve the fudge’s smooth consistency.
Reheating
Fudge is best enjoyed as is, but if it feels a bit too firm, simply leave it at room temperature for a while to soften naturally. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture and make the fudge grainy.
FAQs
Can I add nuts to the Old-Fashioned Caramel Fudge Recipe?
Absolutely! For a bit of crunch and added flavor, fold in about 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts right before pouring the fudge into the pan. It’s a classic addition that complements the creamy caramel perfectly.
What is the soft ball stage and why is it important?
The soft ball stage at 238°F is when the sugar syrup reaches a temperature that gives the fudge its distinct chewy yet soft texture. Reaching this precise temperature ensures your fudge isn’t too hard or too runny.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
While you can use salted butter, it’s best to stick with unsalted and add salt separately. This way, you control the saltiness and balance it perfectly with the caramel sweetness.
How long does it take for the fudge to set?
Setting typically takes a few hours at room temperature. Avoid speeding up the process in the fridge, as cold temperatures can cause the fudge to become too hard and lose its creamy texture.
Is this Old-Fashioned Caramel Fudge Recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no animal-derived gelatin or additives. Just pure, simple, delicious ingredients.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about creating your own batch of Old-Fashioned Caramel Fudge Recipe. It’s simple, satisfying, and fills your home with the most inviting aromas. Whether you’re making it to gift, share, or savor yourself, this recipe brings a timeless charm and unbeatable taste that never fails to impress. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite sweet tradition.
Print
Old-Fashioned Caramel Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours (including cooling and setting)
- Yield: 36 small squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Old-Fashioned Caramel Fudge recipe yields a rich, creamy, and classic homemade candy treat. Made with a blend of granulated and brown sugars, heavy cream, butter, and light corn syrup, it delivers a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture with a luscious caramel flavor enhanced by vanilla extract. Perfect for a nostalgic dessert or gifting during the holidays.
Ingredients
Fudge Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cut into pieces)
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Combine ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, corn syrup, and salt. Stir constantly until the butter melts and the sugars dissolve completely.
- Cook to soft ball stage: Attach a candy thermometer to the saucepan and continue cooking without stirring until the mixture reaches 238°F (soft ball stage), which usually takes about 10–15 minutes.
- Cool the mixture: Remove the pan from heat and allow the fudge mixture to cool undisturbed for about 5 minutes, until it drops to around 110°F.
- Add vanilla and beat: Stir in the vanilla extract. Using a wooden spoon or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the fudge until it becomes thick, creamy, and loses its glossy appearance, approximately 8–10 minutes by hand.
- Pour and set: Quickly pour the beaten fudge into the prepared pan and smooth the top evenly. Let it set at room temperature for several hours until firm.
- Cut and serve: Once fully set, cut the fudge into 36 small squares and serve.
Notes
- Do not stir the mixture while it is boiling to avoid crystallization.
- For added texture, fold in 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts before pouring the fudge into the pan.
- Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
