If you have a sweet tooth and love the comforting blend of rich flavors, this Maple Walnut Fudge Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. Combining creamy white chocolate, the deep sweetness of maple extract, and the satisfying crunch of toasted walnuts, this fudge strikes the perfect balance between smooth and textured. The pinch of sea salt elevates all the flavors, making each bite a heavenly treat. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this recipe brings delightful warmth and sweetness that’s both simple to create and utterly irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Maple Walnut Fudge Recipe is refreshingly straightforward, yet each component plays a vital role in the final taste and texture. From creamy white chocolate to the subtle maple flavor, every ingredient adds its own magic.
- 3 cups white chocolate: The smooth, creamy base that makes this fudge decadently rich.
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk: Adds sweetness and a silky texture for that perfect fudge consistency.
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped: Toasted to bring out their nutty aroma and add delightful crunch.
- 1-2 teaspoons maple extract: The star flavor that imbues the fudge with a warm, natural sweetness.
- Pinch of sea salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
How to Make Maple Walnut Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Toast the Walnuts
Start by toasting the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. This simple step intensifies their flavor and adds a wonderful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the fudge.
Step 2: Prepare Your Pan
Line an 8 x 8 square pan with parchment paper. This ensures your fudge won’t stick and makes it easy to lift out once set, so you get those perfect clean edges when cutting.
Step 3: Combine Chocolate and Condensed Milk
In a large microwave-safe bowl, add your white chocolate and the sweetened condensed milk. These two ingredients create the luscious, creamy base that melts together to form the fudge’s signature smoothness.
Step 4: Melt the Mixture
Microwave the bowl for 30 seconds, then stir well. Continue heating in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is velvety and uniform — patience here yields perfect texture!
Step 5: Add Maple and Walnuts
Now it’s time to stir in the maple extract and the chopped toasted walnuts. The maple extract infuses the fudge with its warm sweetness, while the walnuts contribute that irresistibly nutty flavor and crunch.
Step 6: Pour and Finish
Pour the creamy mixture into your prepared pan, smoothing it out evenly. Top with walnut halves for an elegant touch and sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the surface to enhance every sweet bite.
Step 7: Chill and Cut
Place the pan in the fridge for a minimum of 3 hours to let the fudge firm up. Once set, lift it out using the parchment paper and cut into 12 delicious squares. Your homemade fudge is ready to steal the show!
How to Serve Maple Walnut Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra-special presentation, sprinkle a few extra chopped walnuts or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top of the fudge squares. Adding a tiny drizzle of pure maple syrup over each square can also enhance the flavor and add a glossy finish.
Side Dishes
This fudge pairs wonderfully with a cup of rich coffee or a mug of warm spiced tea. Its sweetness complements a wide range of drinks, making it a perfect after-dinner treat or midday pick-me-up alongside your favorite hot beverage.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the fudge on a beautiful wooden board or in a decorative tin lined with parchment. You could even layer it with other candies or nuts for an assorted treat box. Wrapping individual squares in wax paper tied with a ribbon makes a charming gift for friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, for up to a week. The texture remains soft yet firm, perfect for snacking anytime.
Freezing
If you want to extend its shelf life, Maple Walnut Fudge can be frozen. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Though fudge is usually enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, if you prefer it softer, gently warm a square in your hands or microwave it for a few seconds. Be careful not to overheat, or it might lose its structure.
FAQs
Can I use dark or milk chocolate instead of white chocolate?
Absolutely! While this Maple Walnut Fudge Recipe shines with white chocolate’s sweetness and creaminess, using dark or milk chocolate will give a different, yet still delicious, flavor profile. Adjust the maple extract accordingly to balance the taste.
Is maple extract necessary, or can I use maple syrup?
Maple extract provides a concentrated flavor without adding extra moisture, which helps the fudge set properly. You can try using maple syrup, but it might affect the texture slightly, so use less liquid overall to compensate.
Can I substitute walnuts with other nuts?
Feel free to swap walnuts for pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts. Toasting them first is key to bring out their best flavor and to maintain the delightful crunch in the fudge.
How long does it take for the fudge to set?
The recipe recommends chilling for a minimum of 3 hours. For the best texture, allowing it to set overnight in the refrigerator gives you the perfect firm and creamy fudge.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes! This Maple Walnut Fudge Recipe is straightforward, with simple steps and common ingredients, making it a perfect sweet treat for anyone trying fudge for the first time.
Final Thoughts
This Maple Walnut Fudge Recipe is a wonderful way to impress yourself and others with minimal effort but maximum deliciousness. Its creamy texture, irresistible maple flavor, and nutty crunch come together to create a treat that feels both cozy and elegant. I can’t wait for you to make it and share the warm joy that only homemade fudge can bring!
Print
Maple Walnut Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwaving
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in this creamy Maple Walnut Fudge, a sweet treat combining white chocolate, toasted walnuts, and a hint of maple extract. Perfect for holiday gifts or a decadent dessert, this easy-to-make fudge requires just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
Ingredients
Fudge Ingredients
- 3 cups white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1–2 teaspoons pure maple extract
- Pinch of sea salt
- Walnut halves for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Toast the walnuts: Heat a skillet over medium heat and toast the chopped walnuts for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8 x 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
- Combine chocolate and condensed milk: In a large microwave-safe bowl, add the white chocolate and sweetened condensed milk.
- Microwave the mixture: Microwave on high for 30 seconds, then stir thoroughly. Continue heating in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add flavorings and nuts: Stir in the maple extract and the toasted chopped walnuts until fully incorporated.
- Pour and top the fudge: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Garnish the top with walnut halves and sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the surface.
- Chill to set: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 3 hours or until firm. Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into 12 equal squares.
Notes
- For best results, use good quality white chocolate.
- Maple extract provides a strong maple flavor; adjust quantity to taste.
- Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- You can substitute chopped pecans for walnuts if preferred.
- Allow fudge to come to room temperature slightly before serving for a softer texture.
