Golden Caramel Fudge Squares are a delightful confection that combines the rich sweetness of caramel with the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture of fudge. This recipe is designed to be approachable yet indulgent, offering a treat that feels both nostalgic and luxurious. The squares are soft yet slightly firm, making them easy to cut and stack neatly. Their golden hue and buttery aroma make them irresistible, whether served at gatherings, gifted to friends, or enjoyed quietly with a cup of tea.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a batch of fudge that looks professional and tastes divine. The process of making caramel fudge is also deeply satisfying—watching sugar transform into golden syrup, blending it with butter and condensed milk, and finally setting into smooth squares feels like a small act of magic in the kitchen.
This recipe is not just about creating candy; it’s about crafting a moment of joy. Each square carries the warmth of caramelized sugar and the comfort of creamy fudge, making it a perfect treat to share or savor alone.
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup condensed milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
INSTRUCTION:
- Prepare your pan: Line a square baking dish (8×8 inches works well) with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. Lightly grease the paper to prevent sticking.
- Caramel base: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine granulated sugar and brown sugar. Heat gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugars melt and turn into a golden caramel. Be patient—this step is crucial for achieving the deep flavor.
- Add butter and cream: Once the caramel is smooth, add the butter and heavy cream. Stir continuously to prevent burning. The mixture will bubble vigorously, so keep stirring until it settles into a glossy, thick consistency.
- Incorporate condensed milk: Pour in the condensed milk slowly, stirring constantly. This addition gives the fudge its creamy texture and balances the sweetness. Continue cooking over medium heat until the mixture thickens and begins to pull away from the sides of the pan.
- Flavoring: Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Stir well to distribute evenly. The salt enhances the caramel flavor and prevents the fudge from tasting overly sweet.
- Setting the fudge: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even thickness. Allow it to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then transfer to the refrigerator for 2–3 hours until fully set.
- Cutting into squares: Once firm, lift the fudge out using the parchment overhang. Place it on a cutting board and slice into neat squares with a sharp knife. Wipe the knife between cuts for clean edges.
SERVINGS:
This recipe yields approximately 25–30 small squares, depending on how large you cut them.
NOTE:
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent scorching during caramelization.
- Stir continuously during cooking to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth texture.
- Allow the fudge to cool completely before cutting; rushing this step can cause crumbling.
- Store the squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- These fudge squares make excellent gifts—wrap them individually in wax paper for a charming presentation.
Golden Caramel Fudge Squares are more than just a sweet treat—they’re a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. The process of making them invites patience and care, while the result rewards you with a confection that is both elegant and comforting. Whether stacked neatly on a plate for guests or enjoyed quietly as a personal indulgence, each square embodies the joy of homemade candy-making.