Rich, creamy, and perfectly sweet — a classic homemade treat!
Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins | Cooling Time: 2 hrs
Servings: 36 small squares
📝 Ingredients
Main:
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup pure maple syrup
2 tbsp unsalted butter
¼ tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional:
½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Pan
Line an 8×8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, or lightly grease with butter.
2️⃣ Cook the Fudge Base
In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, cream, maple syrup, butter, and salt.
Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 236°F (soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
3️⃣ Thicken the Mixture
Remove from heat and let cool undisturbed for about 5 minutes.
Add vanilla extract, then beat the mixture with a wooden spoon until it thickens and loses its glossy sheen.
4️⃣ Add Extras (Optional)
Fold in walnuts or pecans, if using.
5️⃣ Pour & Cool
Spread fudge evenly into the prepared pan.
Let cool completely at room temperature (about 2 hours) before cutting into squares.
💡 Tips & Variations
No Thermometer? Drop a small spoonful of hot fudge into cold water — it should form a soft ball that flattens when pressed.
Extra Creamy: Use half-and-half cream for a softer texture.
Festive Touch: Sprinkle with flaky sea salt or drizzle with white chocolate before cooling.
If you want, I can also give you a microwave version of this maple fudge for a super quick, no-stir method. Would you like me to add that?