Gooey Caramel Apple Fudge Recipe

Creamy Caramel Apple Fudge Recipe for Fall Cravings

Sweet autumn memories dance through kitchens when caramel apple fudge recipe bursts with nostalgic warmth.

Creamy textures blend perfectly with rich, golden caramel notes.

Each delectable bite whispers stories of crisp orchard afternoons and cozy gatherings.

Silky smooth fudge captures the essence of seasonal comfort.

Apples lend a subtle tartness that balances the deep caramel sweetness.

Crafted with simple ingredients, this dessert promises pure indulgence.

Dive into a treat that transforms ordinary moments into delightful celebrations.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 4 hours

Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes

Calories: 215 kcal

Servings: 11

What’s Inside Heavenly Caramel Apple Fudge

For Fudge Base and Flavor Enhancers:
  • White Chocolate Chips: Creates creamy foundation with smooth, luxurious texture.
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: Provides rich sweetness and helps bind ingredients perfectly.
  • Butter: Adds silky richness and enhances overall mouthfeel.
  • Vanilla Extract: Deepens flavor complexity with warm, comforting undertones.
  • Apple Pie Spice: Introduces warm, nostalgic autumn flavor profile.
For Texture and Fruity Elements:
  • Dried Apples: Delivers delightful chewy texture and concentrated apple essence.
  • Caramel Sauce: Introduces decadent swirls and golden sweetness throughout fudge.
For Finishing Touch:
  • Sea Salt: Provides sophisticated flavor contrast and enhances sweet notes.
  • Parchment Paper: Ensures easy removal and clean presentation of fudge.

Tools To Make Heavenly Caramel Apple Fudge

  • 8-inch baking dish: Essential for shaping and holding the fudge.
  • Parchment paper: Helps easily remove fudge from the pan without sticking.
  • Medium saucepan: Perfect for melting chocolate and mixing ingredients smoothly.
  • Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula: Great for stirring ingredients without scratching the pan.
  • Knife or skewer: Helps create beautiful caramel swirls in the fudge.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements.
  • Sharp knife: Used for cutting the fudge into neat squares after setting.

How To Whip Up Heavenly Caramel Apple Fudge

  • Fudge Foundation

Grab a cozy baking dish and line it with parchment paper, letting the edges peek out like little handles. This trick makes lifting your fudge a breeze later. In a warm saucepan, melt white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter until they dance together into a silky smooth mixture. Pull the pan off the heat and whisper in vanilla and apple pie spice. Gently fold in dried apple pieces for bursts of fruity goodness.

  • Caramel Swirl Wonderland

Pour half the fudge into your prepared dish, spreading it like a creamy canvas. Drizzle caramel sauce in mesmerizing patterns, then use a knife to create dreamy swirls. Layer the remaining fudge on top, adding another cascade of caramel. For an extra touch of magic, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt that’ll make taste buds dance.

  • Patience and Transformation

Tuck your fudge into the refrigerator for a few hours. Let the cold work its transformative spell, turning your creation into a firm, decadent treat.

  • Slice and Celebrate

When the fudge is perfectly set, lift it out using those parchment paper handles. Slice into squares and prepare for a flavor explosion that’ll make everyone swoon.

Tips To Nail Heavenly Caramel Apple Fudge

  • Caramel Apple Fudge Mastery Tips
  • Precision Melting: Use low, gentle heat when melting chocolate and condensed milk to prevent scorching. Stir continuously and watch for a silky, smooth texture that promises creamy fudge perfection.
  • Spice Enhancement: Experiment with different spice blends like cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin pie spice to elevate the apple flavor profile. Fresh ground spices deliver more intense, vibrant notes compared to pre-mixed versions.
  • Storage Wisdom: Store fudge in an airtight container between parchment paper layers. Refrigerate for up to two weeks or freeze for three months, ensuring maximum freshness and texture preservation.
  • Dietary Adaptations: Create gluten-free versions by using certified gluten-free white chocolate chips. For vegan alternatives, substitute sweetened condensed milk with coconut condensed milk and use dairy-free white chocolate chips.

Ways To Enjoy Heavenly Caramel Apple Fudge

  • Rustic Dessert Display: Arrange fudge squares on a wooden cutting board with whole apples and cinnamon sticks for a cozy farmhouse-style presentation that highlights the autumn flavors.
  • Gourmet Party Platter: Create a dessert board with fudge pieces alongside toasted nuts, dried fruit, and a small drizzle of extra caramel sauce, perfect for elegant gatherings or holiday parties.
  • Sweet Gift Packaging: Wrap individual fudge squares in parchment paper, tie with twine, and add a small cinnamon stick or dried apple chip for a charming homemade food gift that feels personal and thoughtful.
  • Coffee Companion: Serve alongside a warm mug of spiced apple cider or caramel latte, allowing the fudge to complement the drink's rich, comforting flavors for a delightful afternoon treat.

How To Store Heavenly Caramel Apple Fudge

  • Fridge Storage Magic: Keep fudge in an airtight container for up to 7 days, ensuring freshness and preventing moisture absorption.
  • Freezing Delight: Wrap individual fudge pieces in plastic wrap, then store in freezer bags for 2-3 months. Thaw in refrigerator overnight before enjoying.
  • Temperature Care: Store at cool room temperature or refrigerate to maintain texture. Avoid direct sunlight or warm areas that could cause melting.
  • Moisture Shield: Place parchment paper between fudge layers when storing to prevent sticking and maintain individual piece integrity.
Print
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Gooey Caramel Apple Fudge Recipe

Gooey Caramel Apple Fudge Recipe


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4.7 from 39 reviews

  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 11 1x

Description

Homemade caramel apple fudge blends rich, creamy textures with classic autumn flavors. Sweet caramel and crisp apple notes create a delightful seasonal treat that will delight those who savor comforting desserts.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 can (14 oz / 397 g) sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 cups white chocolate chips
  • ½ cup dried apples, finely chopped
  • ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tbsps unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp apple pie spice
  • ½ tsp sea salt (optional, for salted caramel)

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Line a square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess to hang over edges for easy removal.
  2. Base Creation: In a medium saucepan, melt white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter over low heat, stirring until smooth and fully incorporated.
  3. Flavor Infusion: Remove from heat and blend in vanilla extract and apple pie spice, creating a fragrant mixture. Fold in dried apple pieces, ensuring even distribution throughout the fudge base.
  4. Layering: Pour half the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, creating an even first layer. Drizzle caramel sauce across the surface, using a knife to create delicate swirling patterns.
  5. Finishing Touch: Add remaining fudge mixture, smoothing the top. Embellish with additional caramel swirls and an optional light sprinkle of sea salt for enhanced flavor complexity.
  6. Setting: Refrigerate for minimum four hours until completely solidified. Remove from pan using parchment paper overhangs and slice into precise square portions.

Notes

  • Prevent Seizing Chocolate: Melt chocolate slowly over low heat, stirring constantly to avoid burning or separating, which can ruin the smooth fudge texture.
  • Measure Ingredients Precisely: Use exact measurements for condensed milk, chocolate, and spices to ensure the perfect fudge consistency and balanced flavor profile.
  • Control Caramel Swirling: Drizzle caramel sauce when slightly warm but not hot, using a light hand to create elegant marble patterns without completely mixing layers.
  • Optimize Cooling Process: Allow fudge to set completely in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, ensuring it becomes firm and develops a rich, smooth texture before cutting.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 11
  • Calories: 215
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Sodium: 100mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg
Liam O’Sullivan

Liam O’Sullivan

Founder & Culinary Content Creator

Expertise

Recipe Development​, Traditional Irish and European Cuisines, Food Styling and Photography, Culinary Education​

Education

Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT) – School of Culinary Arts and Food Technology

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern cooking techniques, kitchen management, and menu development.​

Ballymaloe Cookery School

  • Program: 12-Week Certificate Course
  • Focus: Intensive, hands-on experience emphasizing farm-to-table cooking and sustainable practices.​

Isabella brings a global spark to the Craft Meats table. Born in Florence and trained at the Apicius International School of Hospitality, she blends classic Italian flavor with modern writing that’s easy to follow and hard to forget. 

Her additional training at the Italian Chef Academy fueled her love for well-crafted dishes, especially ones that spotlight beautiful cuts of meat.

She’s a food writer with heart, and a deep love for storytelling through single recipes. Her goal? To help you cook with more confidence and a little more joy, no matter where you start.

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