Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this Maple Pecan Fudge! It’s the kind of treat that makes your taste buds dance—rich, creamy, and bursting with that delightful nutty flavor. Imagine sinking your teeth into a smooth, velvety piece of fudge that melts in your mouth, with little chunks of crunchy pecans adding the perfect texture.
What I love most about this fudge is how easily it comes together on the stovetop; you don’t need any fancy equipment! The pure maple syrup gives it a unique sweetness that just elevates it to a whole new level. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked and craving more!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple ingredients to whip up your delicious Maple Pecan Fudge:
- 2 cups granulated sugar: This is the base for our sweet fudge.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and creaminess to the fudge.
- 1 cup heavy cream: For that luscious, velvety texture.
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup: The star ingredient that provides a unique sweetness and flavor.
- 1 cup chopped pecans: They bring a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall sweetness and flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
How to Prepare Maple Pecan Fudge
Ready to make the most delicious Maple Pecan Fudge? Let’s get started! First, grab a medium saucepan and add your 2 cups of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, and 1 cup of heavy cream. Place it over medium heat. You’ll want to stir the mixture gently until the sugar dissolves completely, which usually takes just a couple of minutes. Careful not to rush this—if the sugar isn’t dissolved, you could end up with a grainy fudge!
Once it’s all combined, turn up the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Keep an eye on it and let it boil without stirring for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial; it helps the fudge reach that perfect creamy texture. After 5 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This waiting period is key for the flavors to meld a bit.
Now, stir in 1/2 cup of pure maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 cup of chopped pecans. The maple syrup will add that lovely sweetness and flavor, while the pecans bring in that delightful crunch. Pour the mixture into a greased 8×8 inch pan and spread it out evenly. Let the fudge cool completely at room temperature before cutting it into squares. And just like that, you’ve made the most delightful fudge that’s sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—perfect for any skill level!
- Rich, creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
- Delightful nutty flavor from the pecans adds a satisfying crunch.
- Uses simple, everyday ingredients you likely already have.
- Perfect for sharing at parties or keeping all to yourself!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your Maple Pecan Fudge turns out perfect every time! First off, consider using a candy thermometer. It’s a game-changer for ensuring your mixture reaches the ideal temperature of about 240°F. This helps achieve that smooth, creamy texture we all love!
Also, don’t skip the step of fully dissolving the sugar before bringing the mixture to a boil. If you see any granules left, it could lead to a grainy fudge, and nobody wants that! Lastly, be patient when cooling the mixture before adding your maple syrup and pecans. This little wait will do wonders for the flavor and texture. Happy fudging!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix up your Maple Pecan Fudge! Try swapping in walnuts or hazelnuts for a different nutty flavor. You could also add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for that sweet and salty combo that’s just divine. Want to jazz it up even more? Toss in some chocolate chips or a swirl of peanut butter for an extra layer of indulgence. The possibilities are endless, so have fun and make it your own!
Serving Suggestions
To take your Maple Pecan Fudge to the next level, consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture. A drizzle of warm caramel sauce over the fudge can add an extra layer of sweetness that’s simply irresistible. You can also serve it alongside a rich cup of coffee or a hot chocolate for the ultimate cozy treat. Trust me, these combinations are sure to impress your friends and family!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your Maple Pecan Fudge fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It’ll stay tasty for about a week, but I doubt it’ll last that long! If you want to keep it for a longer period, you can refrigerate it, where it’ll last for up to two weeks. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Reheating isn’t usually necessary, but if you prefer it a bit softer, pop it in the microwave for just a few seconds. Be careful not to overheat it, or it may lose that lovely creamy consistency!
Nutritional Information
Please note that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. This delicious Maple Pecan Fudge is rich and satisfying, with each piece delivering around 150 calories. It’s a sweet indulgence that’s perfect for sharing, but as always, moderation is key to enjoying your treats while keeping an eye on your overall nutrition!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of nut in my Maple Pecan Fudge?
Absolutely! While pecans are a classic choice, you can easily swap them out for walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Each nut brings its own unique flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment!
Do I need a candy thermometer to make this fudge?
While it’s not strictly necessary, using a candy thermometer can help you achieve the perfect consistency. If you don’t have one, just make sure to keep an eye on the boiling time—about 5 minutes should do the trick!
How do I know when my fudge is ready to cut?
Your fudge is ready when it’s completely cooled and set. It should feel firm to the touch and not sticky. If you can gently pull it away from the sides of the pan, you’re good to go!
Can I freeze my Maple Pecan Fudge?
Yes, you can! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight container. It should stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight.
What should I do if my fudge turns out grainy?
Grainy fudge usually happens if the sugar hasn’t fully dissolved before boiling. If this happens, you can try re-melting it gently and stirring until smooth, but the best bet is to make sure to dissolve the sugar thoroughly in the first place!
Maple Pecan Fudge That Will Make You Crave More Every Time
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 pieces 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy maple pecan fudge with a delightful nutty flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, butter, and cream over medium heat.
- Stir until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Add maple syrup and salt, then boil for 5 minutes without stirring.
- Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
- Stir in vanilla and chopped pecans.
- Pour into a greased 8×8 inch pan.
- Let it cool completely before cutting into squares.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
- For a smoother texture, ensure all sugar is dissolved before boiling.
- Use a candy thermometer for precise temperature control, aiming for 240°F.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Maple Pecan Fudge, Fudge Recipe, Maple Dessert