Create a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth maple fudge using real maple syrup. This easy, no-bake recipe delivers rich flavor perfect for holiday treats or homemade gifts.
Author:emilyharrison
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:15 min
Total Time:30 min
Yield:About 36 pieces 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Stovetop Cooking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups granulated sugar
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup real maple syrup
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
Prepare an 8×8 inch pan by lining it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the paper.
Combine the sugar, heavy cream, and maple syrup in a heavy-bottomed saucepan.
Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Stop stirring once it boils.
Cook the mixture without stirring until it reaches 234 degrees Fahrenheit on a candy thermometer (soft-ball stage). This usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
Remove the pan from the heat immediately. Stir in the butter until it melts completely.
Let the mixture cool undisturbed until it reaches 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Do not rush this cooling step.
Once cooled, add the vanilla extract and, if using, the chopped walnuts.
Begin beating the mixture vigorously by hand or with an electric mixer on medium speed. Continue beating until the fudge loses its glossy shine and becomes thick and slightly dull, resembling thick peanut butter. This process takes about 5 to 10 minutes.
Quickly pour the fudge into the prepared pan. Do not scrape the sides of the bowl.
Let the fudge set completely at room temperature for several hours, or chill briefly to speed up setting.
Once firm, lift the fudge out using the parchment overhang and cut it into squares.
Notes
For the best texture, use a reliable candy thermometer. Temperature is key to smooth fudge.
If you prefer a faster setting time, you can chill the fudge in the refrigerator, but allow it to come close to room temperature before cutting for cleaner slices.
This recipe makes a traditional, rich maple fudge. For a white chocolate variation, substitute 1 cup of white chocolate chips for some of the sugar/cream mixture, adding them after removing the pan from the heat.