Indulge in the perfect balance of sweet and salty with this Salted Caramel Fudge. With its creamy caramel base and a sprinkle of sea salt, this treat is an irresistible addition to your holiday dessert spread or a thoughtful homemade gift.
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar: For the caramel base.
- ½ cup unsalted butter: Adds richness to the fudge.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the caramel flavor.
- 1 cup white chocolate chips: Adds creaminess and structure.
- 1 tsp sea salt: For topping, adjust to taste.
Supplies Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- 8×8-inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
Instructions
Prepare Your Workspace:
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Make the Caramel Base:
In a medium saucepan, melt the sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it turns a golden amber color. - Add Butter and Cream:
Carefully stir in the butter and heavy cream. The mixture will bubble, so stir slowly and consistently until smooth. - Incorporate Vanilla and Chocolate:
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and white chocolate chips. Mix until smooth and fully combined. - Pour and Smooth:
Pour the caramel mixture into the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula. - Add Sea Salt:
Sprinkle flaky sea salt evenly over the top while the fudge is still warm. - Chill and Set:
Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours, or until firm. - Slice and Serve:
Lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Slice into squares and enjoy!
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Refrigeration: For a firmer texture, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: Wrap individual squares in parchment paper and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Recipe Tips & Tricks
- Tip 1: Use high-quality sea salt for the best flavor balance.
- Tip 2: Stir the sugar continuously while melting to prevent burning.
- Tip 3: For an extra caramel kick, drizzle caramel sauce over the top before adding the sea salt.
Variations
- Dark Chocolate Caramel Fudge: Add 1 cup of dark chocolate chips for a rich twist.
- Salted Nut Caramel Fudge: Fold in ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
- Espresso Caramel Fudge: Stir in 1 tsp espresso powder for a coffee-infused flavor.
FAQ
Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce the sea salt topping slightly to avoid overpowering the flavor.
Q: How do I fix grainy caramel?
Ensure the sugar is fully dissolved and melted before adding the butter and cream.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute coconut cream and vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
Final Thoughts
This Salted Caramel Fudge is a decadent treat that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat. Perfect for gifting, sharing, or keeping for yourself, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a holiday favorite. Give it a try and let us know what you think!
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