Caramel Nut Fudge Recipe

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Ingredients You Will Need

To create the perfect caramel nut fudge just like the image, gather the following ingredients:

For the Caramel Fudge Base

  • 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter
  • 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (250g) packed brown sugar
  • 1 can (397g) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

For the Nuts

  • ½ cup toasted almonds
  • ½ cup toasted cashews
  • ½ cup pecans (halves or pieces)
  • Optional: peanuts, walnuts, or macadamias

Toast the nuts lightly in a pan or oven for enhanced flavor.

Preparing the Nuts

Before making the caramel base, take a moment to prepare your nuts. Many people underestimate the importance of toasted nuts—this step gives your fudge an irresistible deep flavor. Spread the nuts on a baking sheet and roast them at 170°C (340°F) for about 8–10 minutes, until lightly golden and fragrant. Allow them to cool completely before adding them to the hot caramel mixture. This keeps the nuts crisp instead of soggy.

Making the Caramel Base

This caramel fudge base is the heart of the recipe. It’s buttery, creamy, and smooth, setting into the perfect fudge texture once cooled.

  1. Melt the butter in a heavy-bottom saucepan over medium heat. Avoid thin cookware, as caramel can burn easily.
  2. Add the sugars—both white and brown—and stir until they blend completely with the melted butter.
  3. Pour in the condensed milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously. This mixture will initially be thick and pale.
  4. Keep the heat on medium and stir constantly. Once the mixture begins to bubble, continue cooking for 10–12 minutes until it reaches a deep golden color.
  5. The safest method is to use a candy thermometer. Cook until the caramel reaches 115°C (240°F)—the “soft ball stage.”
  6. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.

You now have a silky, hot caramel mixture ready for the nuts.

Adding the Nuts

Pour the toasted nuts into the caramel mixture while it is still hot. Stir quickly to ensure the nuts distribute evenly. The caramel will thicken slightly as the nuts are added, which is normal.

If you prefer a chunkier fudge, add more nuts. If you want a softer, more caramel-forward fudge, add less.

Pouring and Setting the Fudge

Line a square baking pan (20×20 cm / 8×8 inches) with parchment paper. This makes lifting and cutting the fudge much easier.

  1. Pour the caramel-nut mixture into the pan while it is still hot.
  2. Use a silicone spatula to spread the mixture evenly.
  3. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove air bubbles.
  4. Let the fudge cool completely at room temperature for 2–3 hours.
  5. Once set, lift the parchment paper out of the pan and transfer the slab to a cutting board.
  6. Cut into small squares or rectangles—just like in the photo.

The result is a glossy, golden-brown caramel fudge filled with whole nuts.

Tips for Perfect Caramel Nut Fudge

Use a Heavy Pan

A thick, heavy-bottomed pan prevents burning and helps the caramel cook evenly.

Don’t Stop Stirring

Caramel burns quickly, so constant stirring is essential for a smooth texture.

Test for Doneness

If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small spoonful of caramel into cold water. If it forms a soft but pliable ball, it’s ready.

Add Nuts at the Right Time

Adding nuts too early will cause them to soften; adding them too late will make the fudge difficult to spread.

Let It Cool Naturally

Avoid refrigerating the fudge while it’s hot. Sudden cooling can create sugar crystals and ruin the smooth texture.

Variations You Can Try

Chocolate Caramel Fudge

Stir 200g of chopped chocolate into the hot caramel for a chocolate twist.

Butterscotch Nut Fudge

Replace brown sugar with dark brown sugar for a deeper, buttery flavor.

Salted Caramel Nut Fudge

Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before the fudge sets.

White Chocolate Cashew Fudge

Melt 150g white chocolate into the caramel and use only cashews for a creamy bite.

Serving Suggestions

This caramel nut fudge is perfect for:

  • Coffee breaks
  • Holiday gift boxes
  • Party dessert platters
  • Ramadan and Eid treats
  • Afternoon snacks

You can store the fudge in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks, or in the refrigerator for one month. Serve at room temperature to enjoy the best texture.

Conclusion

This Caramel Nut Fudge recipe brings together the comforting richness of caramel and the irresistible crunch of roasted nuts. With careful cooking and attention to detail, you can recreate the beautiful fudge shown in the image—smooth, golden, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for family gatherings, festive occasions, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, this fudge guarantees delicious results every time.

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