Salted caramel fudge is a luxurious treat that combines the rich, buttery sweetness of caramel with the irresistible crunch of sea salt. This easy salted caramel fudge recipe is perfect for both seasoned bakers and beginners, offering a foolproof way to create a gourmet-quality dessert at home.
What makes this old-fashioned salted caramel fudge so special? It’s the perfect blend of nostalgia and modern flavors, with the creamy texture of homemade caramel fudge enhanced by the subtle sophistication of sea salt. Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering, gifting it to loved ones, or indulging yourself, this sea salt caramel fudge is guaranteed to impress.
Let’s dive into the recipe and uncover the secrets to making the ultimate caramel and sea salt fudge!
Table of contents
Reasons to Love the Recipe
There’s something undeniably enchanting about salted caramel fudge, and here’s why this recipe will win you over:
- Effortlessly Easy: This is an easy salted caramel fudge recipe that doesn’t require fancy equipment or advanced skills. If you can stir, you can master this fudge!
- Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor: With a handful of pantry staples, you’ll create a luxurious treat that tastes like it came from an upscale confectioner.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re making caramel and sea salt fudge for a holiday spread, gifting it to a friend, or indulging in it as a personal treat, it’s always a hit.
- A Nostalgic Classic, Modernized: This old-fashioned salted caramel fudge captures the traditional charm of caramel while the sea salt adds a contemporary twist that’s undeniably sophisticated.
- Customizable to Your Tastes: From adding nuts for a crunch to swirling in chocolate for extra decadence, the possibilities for variation are endless.
Personally, I love how this recipe brings back warm childhood memories of sneaking a piece of homemade caramel fudge from the kitchen counter. Yet, it feels updated enough to impress at a modern dinner party. You’ll cherish making it as much as sharing it!
Ingredients
The beauty of this salted caramel fudge recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a decadent, creamy, and flavorful fudge that’s hard to resist.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk (14 oz): The foundation of fudge, it lends creaminess and sweetness while helping the fudge set perfectly.
- Brown Sugar (1 cup): Adds depth and richness with its molasses content, creating the signature caramel flavor.
- Unsalted Butter (½ cup): Contributes to the silky texture while adding a rich, buttery taste.
- Light Corn Syrup (¼ cup): Prevents crystallization during cooking, ensuring a smooth, glossy fudge.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Enhances the caramel flavor with a touch of warmth and sweetness.
- Sea Salt (½ tsp + extra for topping): A must for salted caramel fudge, it balances the sweetness and provides a delightful crunch when sprinkled on top.
- White Chocolate Chips (1½ cups): These melt seamlessly into the mixture, giving the fudge its smooth and creamy texture.
Substitutions
Whether you’re catering to dietary restrictions, ingredient availability, or simply experimenting with flavors, there are plenty of substitution options to make this salted caramel fudge recipe your own.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk:
- Coconut Condensed Milk: For a dairy-free alternative, this works beautifully while adding a subtle coconut flavor.
- Evaporated Milk and Sugar Mix: Combine equal parts evaporated milk and sugar for a quick homemade substitute.
- Brown Sugar:
- Coconut Sugar: A natural option that introduces a slight caramel undertone while being less processed.
- Maple Syrup: For a liquid sweetener alternative, though you may need to adjust the cooking time to achieve the desired consistency.
- Light Corn Syrup:
- Golden Syrup: A fantastic substitute that maintains the fudge’s glossy texture and adds a hint of toffee flavor.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Suitable for a more natural sweetener, but expect a subtle flavor difference.
- White Chocolate Chips:
- Milk or Dark Chocolate Chips: For a richer chocolate flavor, though it will alter the classic caramel taste.
- Dairy-Free Chocolate Chips: Ideal for a vegan version of this fudge.
How to Make Salted Caramel Fudge
Time needed: 30 minutes
Creating salted caramel fudge at home is a straightforward and rewarding process. Follow these steps for foolproof results and a batch of irresistibly creamy fudge:
- Prep Your Workspace
Line the Pan: Start by lining an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the paper to prevent sticking.
Gather Ingredients: Measure all ingredients ahead of time to ensure a smooth process. - Combine the Base Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, unsalted butter, and light corn syrup.
Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly with a heatproof spatula to dissolve the sugar and prevent sticking. - Cook the Caramel
Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture starts to bubble gently. Lower the heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring frequently, for about 10–15 minutes.
- Incorporate the White Chocolate and Vanilla
Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the white chocolate chips and vanilla extract.
Stir briskly until the chocolate melts completely, creating a smooth and glossy mixture. - Add the Sea Salt
Mix in ½ tsp of sea salt, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the caramel fudge for that perfect sweet-salty balance.
- Pour and Set
Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Sprinkle the top with a generous pinch of sea salt flakes for a decorative and flavorful touch. - Cool and Slice
Let the fudge cool at room temperature for about an hour, then transfer it to the refrigerator to set completely (2–3 hours).
Once firm, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Slice into small squares with a sharp knife.
Salted Caramel Fudge Variations
One of the joys of salted caramel fudge is its versatility. You can customize it to suit different tastes or create unique flavor combinations that elevate the classic recipe. Here are some creative ideas to inspire your next batch:
- Nutty Indulgence:
- Pecans or Walnuts: Fold in a handful of toasted pecans or walnuts for a satisfying crunch.
- Almonds: Add slivered almonds for a nutty twist that complements the caramel.
- Chocolate Swirl:
- After pouring the fudge into the pan, swirl in melted dark or milk chocolate for a marbled effect.
- Use white chocolate dyed with food coloring to create festive swirls for holidays.
- Fruit Infusion:
- Dried Cranberries or Cherries: Mix in dried fruits for a tart contrast to the sweet fudge.
- Orange Zest: Stir in finely grated orange zest for a hint of citrusy freshness.
- Crunchy Toppings:
- Sprinkle crushed pretzels, caramelized popcorn, or toffee bits on top for extra texture and flavor.
- Flavored Extracts:
- Swap out the vanilla for almond, coconut, or coffee extract to explore new flavor profiles.
Expert Tips to Make It Perfect
Crafting salted caramel fudge to perfection requires a few insider tricks. These tips will help you achieve flawless texture, rich flavor, and a professional finish every time:
- Stir Constantly: When cooking the caramel base, stir frequently to prevent the mixture from sticking to the pan or burning.
- Prep Ahead: Measure all ingredients before starting. Once the cooking begins, things can move quickly, and having everything ready ensures a smooth process.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: High-quality butter, chocolate, and sea salt make a noticeable difference in flavor. Opt for unsalted butter to control the saltiness, and use flaky sea salt for the best texture.
- Achieve Smooth Fudge: Stir the chocolate into the caramel mixture while it’s still hot to ensure it melts evenly. Any lumps can be smoothed out by vigorous stirring.
- Customize the Salt Topping: Sprinkle the sea salt sparingly to suit your taste. Too much can overwhelm the sweetness; too little can mute the signature salted caramel flavor.
- Clean Slicing: For neat squares, use a warm knife. Run it under hot water, wipe it dry, and slice through the fudge. Repeat between cuts for a professional appearance.
With these tips, your salted caramel fudge will turn out beautifully every time, whether it’s for a special occasion or a personal indulgence.
How to Store Salted Caramel Fudge
Proper storage is key to keeping your salted caramel fudge fresh and delicious for days—or even weeks! Follow these simple guidelines to ensure your homemade caramel fudge retains its creamy texture and rich flavor.
- Room Temperature:
- Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Pro Tip: Separate layers with parchment or wax paper to prevent the pieces from sticking together.
- Refrigeration:
- For longer storage, place the fudge in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to two weeks.
- Bring it to room temperature before serving to restore its creamy texture.
- Freezing:
- Salted caramel fudge freezes exceptionally well. Wrap individual pieces in parchment paper and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- It can be frozen for up to three months. To thaw, let the fudge sit in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
Pro Tip: Label the container with the date of freezing to keep track of freshness.
Whether you’re preparing fudge ahead of time for a special occasion or saving some for later indulgence, these storage tips will keep your caramel and sea salt fudge as delightful as the day it was made.
What to Serve With Salted Caramel Fudge
Salted caramel fudge is a delightful treat on its own, but pairing it with complementary flavors can elevate your experience. Here are some ideas to make your serving platter even more tempting:
- Hot Beverages:
- Coffee: A rich, dark roast balances the sweetness of caramel and enhances its depth of flavor.
- Hot Chocolate: A warm, creamy cup of cocoa turns your fudge into a decadent dessert duo.
- Tea: Opt for black teas like Earl Grey or Chai, whose subtle spice notes pair beautifully with the fudge.
- Cold Beverages:
- Milkshakes: Blend vanilla or chocolate milkshakes for a luscious pairing.
- Iced Coffee: The bitterness of a chilled espresso cuts through the sweetness perfectly.
- Sparkling Water with Citrus: A refreshing, palate-cleansing drink to accompany the richness of the fudge.
- Fruits:
- Berries: Fresh raspberries or strawberries provide a tart contrast to the sweet and salty fudge.
- Dried Fruit: Apricots, cherries, or figs add a chewy, fruity complement to the caramel flavors.
Pro Tip: For a standout dessert spread, arrange your salted caramel fudge alongside complementary options like nuts, fruits, and drinks to create a balanced and visually appealing display.
Conclusion
Salted caramel fudge is more than just a sweet treat—it’s a timeless indulgence that brings joy to every bite. This recipe captures the magic of old-fashioned salted caramel fudge while adding a modern twist with its perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. Whether you’re savoring it solo, sharing it with loved ones, or giving it as a thoughtful homemade gift, this caramel and sea salt fudge is a guaranteed delight.
Don’t forget to experiment with variations and share your results! Craving an easy, decadent treat? Discover how to make this rich and creamy dessert with just three simple ingredients in our post, 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe: Irresistibly Easy & Decadent Treat!
PrintIrresistibly Decadent Salted Caramel Fudge
Indulge in the luscious sweetness of salted caramel fudge, a creamy treat with a hint of sea salt for the perfect balance of flavors. This easy-to-make recipe combines rich caramel notes with a melt-in-your-mouth texture, making it ideal for gifting, holiday celebrations, or satisfying your dessert cravings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (excluding cooling time)
- Yield: 16–20 squares 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stove-Top
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 14 oz Sweetened Condensed Milk
- 1 cup Brown Sugar
- ½ cup Unsalted Butter
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- ½ tsp + extra for topping Sea Salt
- 3/2 cups White Chocolate Chips
Instructions
- Prep Your Workspace
Line the Pan: Start by lining an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the paper to prevent sticking.
Gather Ingredients: Measure all ingredients ahead of time to ensure a smooth process.
- Combine the Base Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, unsalted butter, and light corn syrup.
Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly with a heatproof spatula to dissolve the sugar and prevent sticking.
- Cook the Caramel
Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture starts to bubble gently. Lower the heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring frequently, for about 10–15 minutes.
- Incorporate the White Chocolate and Vanilla
Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the white chocolate chips and vanilla extract.
Stir briskly until the chocolate melts completely, creating a smooth and glossy mixture.
- Add the Sea Salt
Mix in ½ tsp of sea salt, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the caramel fudge for that perfect sweet-salty balance.
- Pour and Set
Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Sprinkle the top with a generous pinch of sea salt flakes for a decorative and flavorful touch.
- Cool and Slice
Let the fudge cool at room temperature for about an hour, then transfer it to the refrigerator to set completely (2–3 hours).
Once firm, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Slice into small squares with a sharp knife.
Notes
- Choose Quality Ingredients: High-quality butter, chocolate, and sea salt make a noticeable difference in flavor. Opt for unsalted butter to control the saltiness, and use flaky sea salt for the best texture.
- Achieve Smooth Fudge: Stir the chocolate into the caramel mixture while it’s still hot to ensure it melts evenly. Any lumps can be smoothed out by vigorous stirring.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Common Questions About Salted Caramel Fudge
Graininess often occurs when the sugar crystals haven’t dissolved completely during cooking. To prevent this, ensure the sugar is fully dissolved before bringing the mixture to a boil. Stirring constantly and cooking at a steady temperature helps achieve a smooth texture.
Yes, you can use salted butter, but you’ll need to adjust the amount of added sea salt in the recipe to avoid an overly salty fudge.
If your fudge is too soft, it may not have reached the correct temperature (240°F). You can reheat the mixture, add a splash of milk if needed, and cook it to the correct stage before letting it set again.
Absolutely! Use coconut condensed milk and dairy-free butter or margarine as substitutes. Replace the white chocolate chips with a vegan version, and you’ll have a plant-based salted caramel fudge.
Yes, you can double the ingredients, but make sure to use a larger saucepan to prevent overflow during cooking. The cooking time may also need slight adjustments.
Stored in an airtight container, it lasts up to a week at room temperature, two weeks in the refrigerator, and up to three months in the freezer.
Definitely! While flaky sea salt is ideal for its texture and flavor, you can experiment with pink Himalayan salt or kosher salt. Just be cautious of the grain size and adjust quantities as needed.
Pack it in decorative tins, small mason jars, or wrap individual pieces in wax paper. Adding a personalized tag or note makes it extra special.
Absolutely loved this recipe! The fudge was creamy, rich, and perfectly balanced with the sea salt. So easy to make—thank you!