Maple Fudge
Maple fudge is a rich, creamy confection made primarily with pure maple syrup. This classic treat captures the deep, natural sweetness of maple and transforms it into a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth dessert. It’s a popular homemade candy, especially in regions known for maple syrup production, and it makes a wonderful gift or indulgence during holidays and special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Maple fudge is more than just a sweet treat—it’s a nostalgic, comforting dessert with a delicate texture and rich flavor. Whether you’re serving it at gatherings, giving it as a thoughtful homemade gift, or enjoying it with a hot beverage, you’ll appreciate its simple ingredients and exquisite taste. This recipe requires minimal equipment and delivers a satisfying, homemade candy without the need for chocolate or corn syrup.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Pure maple syrup
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Heavy cream
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Granulated sugar
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Unsalted butter
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Vanilla extract
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Salt
Directions
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Prepare an 8×8-inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it.
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In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the maple syrup, heavy cream, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
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Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is fully dissolved.
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Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pot and continue cooking the mixture, without stirring, until it reaches 236°F (soft-ball stage).
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Remove the pot from heat and add the butter and vanilla extract. Do not stir yet.
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Let the mixture cool undisturbed to about 110°F.
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Once cooled, beat the mixture with a wooden spoon or electric mixer until it thickens and loses its gloss—this can take about 5–10 minutes.
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Quickly pour the fudge into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
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Allow the fudge to set completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
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Cut into squares and serve.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 36 small squares of fudge. The total time required is about 2 to 2.5 hours, including cooling and setting. Active cooking and stirring time is roughly 30 minutes.
Variations
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Maple Nut Fudge: Stir in chopped toasted pecans or walnuts before pouring the mixture into the pan.
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Creamy Maple Fudge: Use sweetened condensed milk instead of cream and sugar for a smoother texture.
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Maple Bacon Fudge: Add crumbled, cooked bacon for a sweet-and-savory twist.
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Spiced Maple Fudge: Include a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store maple fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 3 weeks. To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a sealed container or freezer bag; it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving. Reheating is not recommended, as it may alter the texture.
FAQs
What type of maple syrup should I use?
Always use pure maple syrup, preferably Grade A Amber or Dark for a stronger flavor.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter is preferred for flavor and texture, but margarine can be used in a pinch, though it may slightly alter the taste and consistency.
Why did my fudge turn out grainy?
Grainy fudge usually results from stirring the mixture too early or not cooling it properly before beating. Ensure the syrup mixture cools before beating to avoid crystallization.
Do I need a candy thermometer?
Yes, a candy thermometer ensures the syrup reaches the correct temperature for proper setting. Without it, the texture may not be right.
How do I know when to stop beating the fudge?
Stop when the mixture thickens, becomes less glossy, and starts to hold its shape—usually after 5–10 minutes of beating.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can experiment with dairy-free alternatives such as coconut cream and plant-based butter, but results may vary in flavor and texture.
Is maple fudge gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, assuming all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but use a larger pan and monitor the temperature carefully to avoid scorching.
Can I add chocolate to this fudge?
You can stir in white or dark chocolate chips after beating the mixture for a maple-chocolate version.
How long does maple fudge take to set?
Maple fudge usually sets in about 2 hours at room temperature or 1 hour in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
Maple fudge is a timeless treat that combines the comforting taste of pure maple syrup with the classic texture of homemade candy. With its simple ingredients and straightforward process, it’s a delightful addition to your dessert repertoire. Whether you enjoy it plain or with creative variations, maple fudge is sure to impress at any occasion.
