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
Scale
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.
