Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Seasonal Flavors: Enjoy the classic taste of caramel apples in a convenient, bite-sized form.
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Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this fudge is accessible for both novice and experienced cooks.
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Versatile: Ideal for parties, potlucks, or as a homemade gift.
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Customizable: Easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Ingredients
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1 cup finely chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)
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1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
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1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
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½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
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2 cups white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
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½ cup packed brown sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
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Pinch of salt
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and finely chop the apples. Toss them with a small amount of lemon juice to prevent browning and set aside.
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Melt the Base: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, sweetened condensed milk, and brown sugar. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and the sugar is fully dissolved.
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Add White Chocolate: Gradually stir in the white chocolate, continuing to stir until completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
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Incorporate Flavors: Remove the saucepan from heat and fold in the caramel sauce, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Gently fold in the chopped apples.
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Set the Fudge: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
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Cool and Serve: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours, or until it is firm and fully set. Once set, cut into squares and serve.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: This recipe yields approximately 16 squares.
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Preparation Time: 15 minutes
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Cooking Time: 10 minutes
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Chilling Time: 2 hours
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Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 25 minutes
Variations
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Nutty Caramel Apple Fudge: Add ½ cup of chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds) to the fudge mixture for extra crunch.
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Peanut Butter Caramel Apple Fudge: Swirl ½ cup of creamy peanut butter into the fudge mixture before setting.
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Chocolate Caramel Apple Fudge: Replace white chocolate with 1 cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips.
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Maple Caramel Apple Fudge: Substitute ½ cup of caramel sauce with maple syrup for a warm, maple flavor.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store Caramel Apple Fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
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Freezing: If you need to store fudge for a longer period, it can be frozen. Place the fudge in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes, you can use any variety of apple you prefer. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are recommended for their balance of tartness and sweetness.
2. Can I use milk chocolate instead of white chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate for white chocolate, but it will alter the flavor profile of the fudge.
3. How do I prevent the apples from browning?
Tossing the chopped apples with a small amount of lemon juice helps prevent browning.
4. Can I make this fudge without caramel sauce?
Yes, you can make your own caramel sauce or substitute it with maple syrup for a different flavor.
5. How do I know when the fudge is set?
The fudge should be firm to the touch and hold its shape when cut into squares.
6. Can I add other fruits to the fudge?
Yes, you can add other fruits like pears or berries, but ensure they are finely chopped and have a similar moisture content to apples.
7. Can I use a different type of sugar?
Yes, you can substitute brown sugar with white granulated sugar, but it may affect the flavor and texture slightly.
8. Can I make this fudge vegan?
To make the fudge vegan, use dairy-free butter and sweetened condensed coconut milk, and substitute the white chocolate with dairy-free chocolate chips.
9. How do I cut the fudge cleanly?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts to ensure neat edges.
10. Can I add spices other than cinnamon?
Yes, you can add spices like nutmeg or allspice for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
Caramel Apple Fudge is a delightful and easy-to-make treat that combines the
Caramel Apple Fudge
sweet and tart flavors of caramel apples with the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture of fudge. With just a few simple ingredients, this seasonal treat is perfect for fall gatherings, holiday celebrations, or as a thoughtful homemade gift. Customize it to your liking, and enjoy this deliciously sweet indulgence!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup finely chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 2 cups white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and finely chop the apples. Toss with a small amount of lemon juice to prevent browning. Set aside.
- Melt the Base: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, sweetened condensed milk, and brown sugar. Stir continuously until smooth and the sugar is dissolved.
- Add White Chocolate: Gradually stir in the white chocolate, and continue stirring until completely melted and smooth.
- Incorporate Flavors: Remove the saucepan from heat and fold in the caramel sauce, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Gently fold in the chopped apples.
- Set the Fudge: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Pour the fudge mixture into the pan and spread evenly.
- Cool and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, until firm and set. Once set, cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- Nutty Variation: Add ½ cup of chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds) for added crunch.
- Peanut Butter Option: Swirl in ½ cup of creamy peanut butter for a delicious twist.
- Chocolate Variation: Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips instead of white chocolate.
- Maple Flavor: Substitute ½ cup of caramel sauce with maple syrup for a warm flavor.