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Delicious Maple Walnut Fudge Recipe

Maple walnut fudge is a delightful way to embrace the cozy vibes of fall all year round. This rich and creamy fudge is not only irresistibly sweet but also beautifully textured, offering a harmony of silky smoothness tinged with the satisfying crunch of walnuts. It’s a luxurious treat that looks and feels fancy but is surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you need a sweet gift, a dessert for a potluck, or just a little indulgence on a Tuesday, this fudge fits the bill perfectly. Plus, you won’t even need a candy thermometer to make this treat!

Rich and creamy homemade maple walnut fudge on parchment paper.

Why You’ll Love This Maple Walnut Fudge

Gloriously Gift-Worthy: This fudge looks stunning packed in a clear bag tied with a gold ribbon, making it perfect for gifting.
Effortlessly Easy: Just warm, stir, and let it set! It really is that simple!
Real Maple Magic: While maple extract can work in a pinch, using real maple syrup truly elevates the flavor, making your fudge taste exceptional.

Ingredients

White Chocolate Chips: These provide a creamy base, key for that smooth texture your fudge is famous for.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This ingredient adds sweetness and gives the fudge its delightful chewiness.
Unsalted Butter: Enhances richness and contributes to that luscious, silky mouthfeel.
Real Maple Syrup: Cook on low heat until thickened for the most authentic maple flavor.
Walnuts: These nuts bring a buttery crunch that perfectly complements the sweetness of the fudge.
Salt & Vanilla Extract: These help balance and enhance the overall sweetness in the fudge.

Homemade real maple walnut fudge on parchment paper.

How to Make Maple Walnut Fudge

This straightforward fudge can be whipped together in just a few minutes and will set perfectly in your fridge. It’s ideal to make ahead for any occasion. Here’s how you can create it:

Reduce: In a medium saucepan, bring your maple syrup to a gentle simmer over low heat, stirring often. Allow it to thicken and reduce by half.
Grease: Prepare an 8×8-inch baking dish by greasing it well and lining it with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang for easy lifting later.
Add: Once your syrup is reduced, mix in the white chocolate chips, condensed milk, and butter. Keep stirring constantly over low heat until everything is smoothly combined.
Remove: Take the pan off the heat and fold in the vanilla, salt, and 1 ½ cups of chopped walnuts until they’re evenly distributed.
Pour: Transfer the fudge mixture into your prepared dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining walnuts on top for extra texture.
Chill: Place the fudge in the refrigerator for about an hour, or until it has set firmly.
Lift: Using the parchment overhang, lift the fudge out of the dish. Set it on a cutting board, slice it into squares, and enjoy!

Creamy fudge squares with chopped walnuts on a plate

Tips for the Best Maple Walnut Fudge

Even the simplest recipes have a few tips that can truly enhance the final product. Here are some of my favorites:

Quality Matters! Opt for high-quality chocolate chips, ideally made with real cocoa butter. And remember, always use pure maple syrup instead of imitation or pancake syrup.
Toast the Nuts: Elevate the flavor of your walnuts by toasting them in a dry pan over medium heat. Stir until they’re fragrant, then let them cool before chopping.
Why Reduce the Syrup? To achieve that bold maple flavor without excess liquid that could prevent your fudge from setting, reducing it over low heat is essential.
Maple Extract Option: If preferred, you can replace the syrup with 1 teaspoon of pure maple extract, adding it at the same time as your vanilla and salt.
Stick to Low Heat: Make sure to use low heat to prevent burning the chocolate. Stir it consistently, and give it a little patience—it will melt perfectly.
Don’t Confuse Your Milks: Ensure you are using sweetened condensed milk, as evaporated milk has a different consistency and sweetness.
Use a Clean, Sharp Knife: This will give you clean cuts. Wipe the blade with a towel between slices for the best presentation.
Get Creative! Feel free to mix things up by adding different nuts, chocolate chips for a marbled look, or dried fruits for added texture.

How to Store Maple Walnut Fudge

Enjoying this fudge is always a pleasure, which is why I often double the recipe!

To Store: Keep the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator, separating layers with wax paper to prevent sticking. It will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.
To Freeze: Wrap individual pieces or slabs tightly in plastic wrap and then place them inside a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.