Introduction to Creamy Caramel Fudge Just Like Mom Made
There's something truly magical about homemade fudge; it brings back memories of childhood, warmth, and the love of family. Creamy Caramel Fudge Just Like Mom Made is not just a treat; it’s a tradition that many of us cherish. This rich, buttery confection is perfect for sharing during the holidays or savoring on a cozy evening at home.
Why is Homemade Fudge So Special?
Homemade fudge stands out because it’s made with love and a pinch of nostalgia. Each cube transport us back to simpler times, where the kitchen filled with tantalizing aromas as Mom stirred pots on the stove. Unlike store-bought varieties packed with preservatives, homemade fudge offers authentic taste and quality, making it truly special.
Creating your own creamy caramel fudge allows for personal touches—like adding nuts or a hint of sea salt for that perfect flavor balance. Plus, it’s a great way to engage with loved ones, whether that’s whipping up a batch together or gifting it to friends and family.
Curious about how to recreate this beloved treat? With just four simple ingredients and no candy thermometer required, you can whip up your very own batch. So, let’s dive into the details of this deliciously nostalgic recipe!
Ingredients for Creamy Caramel Fudge
Creating Creamy Caramel Fudge Just Like Mom Made is easier than you might think! Let’s dive into the essentials you’ll need.
Main Ingredients Needed
For a rich and buttery fudge that will have your taste buds dancing, you will need:
- 1 can of sweetened condensed milk (13–14 oz)
- ⅔ cup of whole milk
- 2 ¼ cups of sugar (options include demerara, turbinado, or light brown sugar)
- ½ cup of unsalted butter
These four ingredients come together to form the base of your fudge, giving you that signature creamy texture.
Optional Add-ins for Flavor Enhancement
Feeling creative? Here are some great options to elevate your fudge:
- Chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch)
- Sea salt (a sprinkle on top adds a lovely contrast)
- Chocolate chips or chunks (for a delightful chocolate twist)
- Flavor extracts (like vanilla or almond for extra oomph)
These optional add-ins can personalize your fudge, making it perfect for a gift or a special treat for yourself. For more tips on enhancing flavor, check out resources from The Spruce Eats. Enjoy cooking and let the sweet nostalgia take over!
Preparing Creamy Caramel Fudge
Creating dreamy, Creamy Caramel Fudge Just Like Mom Made is an experience that combines simple ingredients, a touch of patience, and lots of love. Whether it's for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this recipe brings back those warm, nostalgic feelings. Let’s dive into the steps you need to create this delightful treat!
Gather Your Equipment and Ingredients
Before you start, it's essential to have everything ready. Here’s what you need:
Equipment
- An 8x8 inch baking tray lined with parchment paper
- A Saucepan for melting the ingredients
- An Infrared thermometer (or a spoon for testing)
- A whisk or mixer for achieving the perfect consistency
Ingredients
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (13–14 oz)
- ⅔ cup whole milk
- 2 ¼ cups sugar (demerara, turbinado, or light brown)
- ½ cup unsalted butter
Melt the Base Ingredients Together
Start by adding the sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, sugar, and butter to your saucepan. Heat over low-medium heat and stir continuously. The key here is patience — you want everything to melt together into a smooth mixture without burning. This can take about 5 to 7 minutes. Don’t rush!
Think of this as the perfect time to reflect — maybe about how you’d want to gift some of this fudge to a friend or keep it all for yourself!
Simmer to Perfection and Test Without a Thermometer
Once your mixture is melted, bring it to a soft boil, stirring constantly to prevent any sticking at the bottom. A soft boil is crucial for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Simmer for about 10 minutes. If you’re without a thermometer, drop a small spoonful into a bowl of ice water. If it forms a soft ball, you’re set!
Whisk to Achieve the Right Consistency
After reaching the right temperature, remove the fudge from the heat. Allow it to cool slightly before whisking vigorously. You want to see the color change into a matte finish, thickening as you go. This should take around 5 to 10 minutes. It’s the perfect time to daydream about the deliciousness you’re about to enjoy!
Pour and Chill the Fudge
Once the fudge has the perfect consistency, pour it into your lined baking tray and smooth the top with a spatula. Cover it with another piece of parchment and let it cool to room temperature. After that, pop it in the fridge until fully set; this can take an hour or two.
When it’s ready, slice it into squares and indulge! Remember, storing the fudge in an airtight container will keep it fresh for up to two weeks—if you can resist it that long!
And there you have it! Delicious, homemade caramel fudge that would make any mom proud. Enjoy making memories in your kitchen!
Variations on Creamy Caramel Fudge
Nutty Caramel Fudge with Walnuts
If you're a fan of added texture and flavor, try incorporating chopped walnuts into your Creamy Caramel Fudge Just Like Mom Made. The nutty crunch complements the smooth, buttery goodness perfectly, creating a delightful contrast. Simply fold about a cup of toasted walnuts into the fudge mixture right before pouring it into the tray. This variation not only adds a delicious twist but also gives that homemade touch that many of us cherish.
Chocolate-Drizzled Caramel Fudge
For chocolate lovers, drizzling melted chocolate over your fudge can elevate it to a new level. Once your fudge has set, melt some dark or milk chocolate and use a fork to create a smooth, drizzling effect on top. The combination of rich chocolate and velvety caramel is mouthwatering! This simple addition makes it an impressive treat for gatherings or as a sweet gift.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Creamy Caramel Fudge
Key Tips for a Smooth Result
To achieve the perfect creamy texture in your Creamy Caramel Fudge Just Like Mom Made, remember to stir constantly while cooking. This helps prevent the mixture from sticking and burning, ensuring a silky finish. Utilizing an infrared thermometer can help you track the ideal temperature without the need for candy thermometers. If you don’t have one, the ice water test is an easy alternative: if your mixture forms a soft ball, it's ready to whisk!
Storing and Freezing Your Fudge
When it comes to storing, keep your fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you plan to savor it later, wrap each square individually and place in your freezer for up to three months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge before indulging in that sweet, creamy goodness. For more storage tips and methods, check out this helpful guide to ensure your treats stay fresh!
Serving suggestions for Creamy Caramel Fudge
Ideal Pairings for Your Fudge
When enjoying your Creamy Caramel Fudge Just Like Mom Made, consider pairing it with your favorite hot beverages. A rich cup of coffee or a warm mug of hot chocolate complements the sweet, buttery flavors beautifully. For an afternoon treat, try serving the fudge with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of sea salt for a delightful contrast.
Creative Ways to Gift Your Caramel Fudge
Gifting this fudge can be a heartwarming gesture. Consider packaging it in decorative boxes or mason jars tied with a ribbon. For a personalized touch, accompany it with a handwritten note sharing your favorite memory of making fudge with your mom. You can also create a festive holiday tray with the fudge, cookies, and chocolate-covered pretzels, making for an irresistible gift that will surely impress friends and family.
For more fudge inspiration, check out sites like Tastes Better From Scratch or The Spruce Eats, which often have creative ways to enhance your homemade treats.
Time Breakdown for Creamy Caramel Fudge
Preparation Time
Getting ready to whip up some Creamy Caramel Fudge Just Like Mom Made takes only 15 minutes. Gather your ingredients and equipment, and you’ll be on your way to a delicious treat in no time!
Cooking Time
The cooking process will take about 15 minutes. Keep your eyes on the pot and stir continuously to ensure a perfectly smooth and creamy fudge that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Total Time
In just 30 minutes, you can have a batch of gorgeous fudge ready to cool and set. It’s the perfect quick dessert option when you're pressed for time but still want something that feels like a homemade hug!
Nutritional Facts for Creamy Caramel Fudge
Calories per cube
Each serving of this Creamy Caramel Fudge Just Like Mom Made contains approximately 55 calories. It’s a delightful treat, perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings without going overboard.
Sugar content
In each cube, you’ll find around 9 grams of sugar. While it adds to the luscious flavor, it’s wise to savor these in moderation, especially if you’re watching your sugar intake.
Shelf life details
This fudge boasts a shelf life of about two weeks at room temperature and can be refrigerated for a bit longer. For those who can’t resist, freezing is a great option — it keeps well for 2-3 months when individually wrapped. Enjoy this indulgent treat and share with loved ones!
For more tips on storing your fudge, check out this guide.
FAQs about Creamy Caramel Fudge
How can I make the fudge less sweet?
If you find traditional Creamy Caramel Fudge Just Like Mom Made a bit too sweet for your taste, consider using a combination of dark chocolate or unsweetened cocoa. This balances the sweetness and adds a depth of flavor. You can also reduce the sugar by a quarter to one-third to create a less sweet fudge; just be aware that it might affect the texture slightly.
Can I make this fudge vegan?
Absolutely! To make a vegan version of this fudge, substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a vegan alternative and use coconut or almond milk in place of whole milk. For the butter, you can switch to a plant-based butter. You’ll still enjoy that delicious, creamy texture without any animal products.
What’s the best way to cut fudge without it sticking?
To cut your fudge smoothly, use a sharp knife that's been lightly greased with cooking spray or vegetable oil. This will prevent sticking. Also, ensure that the fudge is completely set before trying to slice it; chilling it in the fridge will help firm it up for easier cutting.
Conclusion on Creamy Caramel Fudge Just Like Mom Made
Creating your own Creamy Caramel Fudge Just Like Mom Made not only brings back cherished memories but also fills your home with delightful aromas. This simple, 4-ingredient recipe is perfect for sharing or storing for later. Enjoy the sweet taste of nostalgia with each bite!
Creamy Caramel Fudge Just Like Mom Made
Equipment
- Infrared Thermometer
- 8x8 inch Baking tray
- parchment paper
Ingredients
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (13–14 oz can)
- ⅔ cup whole milk
- 2 ¼ cups sugar (demerara, turbinado, light brown, etc)
- ½ cup butter (unsalted)
Instructions
- Add the condensed milk, milk, sugar, and butter to a saucepan. Heat over low heat and stir until everything melts together and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Bring to a soft boil and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Scrape the bottom of the pan regularly.
- Check that the mixture reaches 240–245ºF (115–120ºC) using a thermometer.
- If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small spoonful into a bowl of ice water. If it forms a soft ball that doesn’t stick to your fingers, it’s ready. If not, continue simmering for a few more minutes and test again.
- Remove from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Whisk the mixture using an electric mixer or wooden spoon until it thickens, turns matte, and begins to set. This may take up to 10 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into a parchment-lined 8-inch (20 cm) tray and smooth the top. Cover with another sheet of parchment. Let it cool to room temperature, then transfer to the fridge to chill until fully set.
- Slice into 1–1.5 inch squares and enjoy or store in an airtight container.
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