Creamy Caramel Apple Fudge bursting with cozy fall flavors — an easy no-bake sweet treat perfect for holidays, parties, and festive gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Caramel Apple Fudge is a delightful combination of creamy white chocolate, spiced apple cider, and sweet caramel, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth. It’s an easy and impressive dessert that’s ideal for holiday parties, potlucks, or gift-giving. Plus, with no complicated steps or baking involved, this recipe is beginner-friendly and quick to prepare.
Ingredients
- 3 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant apple cider drink mix
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
Directions
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk together, stirring constantly until smooth.
- Stir in the apple cider mix, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Pour half of the fudge mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the first fudge layer.
- Pour the remaining fudge mixture on top and spread evenly.
- Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the top and swirl it gently with a knife.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until completely set.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 16
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
- Calories: 320 kcal per serving
Variations
- Nutty addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts between the layers for extra crunch.
- Spiced fudge: Increase the cinnamon and nutmeg for a bolder spiced flavor.
- Apple pieces: Fold in tiny bits of dried apple for a chewy texture.
- Chocolate caramel fudge: Substitute part of the white chocolate chips with milk chocolate for a different twist.
- Salted caramel version: Sprinkle a little sea salt over the top before chilling for a sweet-salty contrast.
Storage/Reheating
Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze the fudge for up to 2 months. To serve, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly. This dessert does not require reheating.
FAQs
Can I use homemade caramel sauce?
Yes, homemade caramel sauce adds a delicious, rich flavor.
Can I use fresh apple cider instead of the drink mix?
No, the instant apple cider drink mix is necessary for the proper texture and flavor intensity.
What if I don’t have white chocolate chips?
You can use chopped white chocolate bars instead.
How do I make clean cuts in the fudge?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts.
Can I make this fudge without caramel?
Yes, but you will miss out on the classic caramel apple flavor.
Is this fudge very sweet?
Yes, it’s quite rich and sweet, perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth.
Can I add food coloring to make it more festive?
Yes, a few drops of red or green food coloring can make it more seasonal.
Will the fudge melt if left out at room temperature?
It will soften but should hold its shape if not left out for too long.
Can I use other drink mixes?
For different flavors, you could experiment with other instant drink mixes, but the apple flavor is traditional for this fudge.
How far in advance can I make this fudge?
You can make it up to a week ahead and store it in the fridge until needed.
Conclusion
Caramel Apple Fudge is a rich, festive treat that brings the cozy flavors of fall into a bite-sized dessert. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or giving as homemade gifts, this simple, no-bake fudge is both delicious and beautiful. A must-try for anyone who loves caramel, apple, or easy-to-make sweets.
Explore More Tempting Recipes
- Savor the flaky, buttery perfection of Caramelized Apple Puff Pastry Pillows, a true treat for pastry lovers.
- Indulge in the creamy, dreamy layers of Decadent Caramel Apple Fluff Salad, perfect for any sweet craving.
- Enjoy a fun and portable dessert with Caramel Apple Handheld Empanadas, packed with caramel apple goodness.
- Cozy up with a slice of Oatmeal Apple Carrot Cake, a moist and hearty classic full of warm flavors.
Caramel Apple Fudge
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy Caramel Apple Fudge bursting with cozy fall flavors — an easy no-bake sweet treat perfect for holidays, parties, and festive gatherings.
Ingredients
3 cups white chocolate chips
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 box (3.4 oz) instant apple cider drink mix
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
Instructions
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk, stirring constantly until smooth.
Stir in apple cider mix, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Pour half of the fudge mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the first layer.
Add the remaining fudge mixture and spread evenly.
Drizzle remaining caramel sauce on top and swirl gently with a knife.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours until completely set.
Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- For a stronger apple flavor, add an extra tablespoon of apple cider mix.
- Use a good quality caramel sauce for richer flavor.
- Store fudge in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American