Description

This creamy maple walnut fudge is a nostalgic, melt-in-your-mouth treat packed with real maple syrup and crunchy toasted walnuts. Quick and easy to make, it’s perfect for fall gatherings, gifting, or satisfying your sweet tooth.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup pure maple syrup (dark or amber)
1 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
1 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
Optional: 1/4 teaspoon maple extract
Optional: 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
Optional: 1/2 cup dried cranberries

Instructions

Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Lightly butter the sides.
Toast chopped walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until fragrant. Transfer to a plate to cool.
In a medium saucepan, combine maple syrup, granulated sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Heat over medium, stirring gently as the butter melts (about 3 minutes).
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly. Attach a candy thermometer or prepare for the soft-ball test. Cook until the thermometer reads 235°F (113°C), about 8-10 minutes.
Remove from heat and let cool for 2-3 minutes. Stir in vanilla extract and salt.
Transfer the hot syrup to a mixing bowl. Add sifted powdered sugar, whisking until smooth and creamy. If too stiff, add a teaspoon of cream.
Fold in toasted walnuts and any optional add-ins (chocolate chips, cranberries).
Spread the fudge into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Tap the pan gently to release air bubbles.
Let the fudge set at room temperature for 2-3 hours, or refrigerate for about 1 hour. When firm, lift out using the parchment and cut into squares.

Notes

Use real maple syrup for best flavor. Toasting walnuts adds extra nuttiness. If you don’t have a candy thermometer, use the soft-ball water test. For dairy-free, substitute coconut cream and vegan butter. Fudge sets quickly after adding powdered sugar, so work fast. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate/freeze for longer storage.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 square (about 1-inch)
Calories: 90
Sugar: 10
Sodium: 25
Fat: 6
Saturated Fat: 3
Carbohydrates: 12
Fiber: 0.5
Protein: 1

Keywords: maple walnut fudge, creamy fudge, fall dessert, homemade fudge, maple syrup, easy fudge recipe, autumn sweets, nutty fudge, gluten-free fudge, holiday treats