Here’s a delicious recipe for Caramel Pecan Fudge that combines creamy caramel with crunchy pecans in a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth fudge. It’s a perfect treat for any occasion!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ¼ cups sweetened condensed milk (one 14 oz can)
- 1 cup chopped pecans (lightly toasted for extra flavor)
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 ½ cups white chocolate chips
- ½ cup milk chocolate chips (optional, for a swirl effect)
Instructions:
- Prepare a Baking Pan: Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This will make it easier to remove the fudge once it sets.
- Toast the Pecans: In a dry skillet over medium heat, lightly toast the chopped pecans for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Cook the Caramel Mixture: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the granulated sugar, heavy cream, and salt. Stir continuously to combine and bring to a simmer. Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes slightly golden.
- Add Sweetened Condensed Milk: Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and let the mixture simmer for another 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly. The caramel should be smooth and thickened.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the white chocolate chips and vanilla extract, stirring until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth. If you’d like to create a swirl effect, you can add the milk chocolate chips at this point and stir them just a little, leaving some streaks.
- Mix in Toasted Pecans: Stir in the toasted pecans until evenly distributed throughout the fudge mixture.
- Pour into Pan: Pour the caramel-pecan fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. You can lightly tap the pan on the counter to help level it out.
- Cool and Set: Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then transfer it to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until it’s fully set and firm.
- Cut and Serve: Once the fudge has set, remove it from the pan and cut it into small squares. Serve and enjoy the rich, creamy texture with the crunch of pecans!
This caramel-pecan fudge is perfect for holiday gifts, parties, or as a sweet indulgence for yourself. Let me know if you’d like more variations or tips!