If you’re on the lookout for a quick yet irresistibly delicious treat to wow your friends or just enjoy on a cozy night in, this Maple Walnut Fudge Recipe is absolutely for you. I love this recipe because it blends the creamy sweetness of white chocolate with the warm, rich flavor of maple and the satisfying crunch of walnuts in a way that feels both luxurious and comforting. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simplicity at Its Best: Just a few ingredients and minimal effort make this fudge a perfect go-to dessert.
- Rich Maple Flavor: The maple extract adds a natural, sweet depth that sets it apart from ordinary fudge.
- Perfect Texture: Creamy with a satisfying walnut crunch in every bite.
- Microwave or Stove-Top Friendly: You can make it whichever way suits your style or kitchen setup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Maple Walnut Fudge Recipe really comes from combining the creamy white chocolate with the sweetness of condensed milk and maple extract, rounded out by crunchy walnuts. When shopping, look for high-quality white chocolate chips to ensure the best melt and flavor.
- White Chocolate Chips: I recommend using good quality chips because they melt smoothly and give a richer taste.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This is the secret to the fudge’s creamy texture and added sweetness.
- Maple Extract: A little goes a long way — it adds that authentic maple flavor without overpowering the fudge.
- Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Walnuts: Go for coarsely chopped to get a nice crunch; toasting them lightly can also boost their nuttiness.
Variations
I love to tweak this recipe depending on the season or my mood. It’s super easy to personalize, so don’t hesitate to experiment until you find your perfect version.
- Chocolate Swap: Once, I tried using semi-sweet chocolate chips instead of white chocolate, and it gave a deeper chocolate-maple combo that my family went crazy for.
- Nut Alternatives: Pecans or almonds work great if you want a different texture or flavor — I’ve had success swapping in pecans when walnuts were out of stock.
- Vegan Version: Use dairy-free white chocolate and a sweetened coconut milk condensed alternative to make it friendly for dairy-free diets.
- Spiced Up: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg adds warmth and complexity, perfect for fall or winter celebrations.
How to Make Maple Walnut Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Begin by lining an 8 or 9 inch square baking pan with parchment paper or non-stick foil that’s lightly greased. I discovered this trick after serving fudge that stuck to the pan — the parchment makes sure your fudge comes out in perfect squares without any drama.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Condensed Milk
Place your white chocolate chips along with the whole can of sweetened condensed milk into a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at 70% power for 90 seconds. Then stir well using the residual heat — you want it silky and fully melted, no chunks left. If it’s not quite melted, zap it for an extra 15 seconds at a time, stirring between intervals. Alternatively, you can melt this mixture in a double boiler over simmering water for more control. Either way works beautifully!
Step 3: Add Maple Extract, Salt & Walnuts
Stir in 1 ½ teaspoons of maple extract and a pinch of salt to balance out the sweetness and elevate the flavors. Then fold in your coarsely chopped walnuts. The key here is folding gently but thoroughly — you want every bite to have that perfect nutty crunch.
Step 4: Pour and Chill
Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly. I find using an offset spatula works wonders here. Pop it in the refrigerator to chill for several hours, or ideally overnight, so it sets up nicely. When ready, cut into bite-sized squares and prepare to enjoy!
Pro Tips for Making Maple Walnut Fudge Recipe
- Use Quality Chocolate: I always choose high-quality white chocolate chips because they melt smoother and taste richer than generic brands.
- Timing the Microwave: Start at 70% power to avoid scorching the chocolate — trust me, burnt white chocolate is a disaster!
- Chill Properly: Give it plenty of fridge time (several hours or overnight) — this really helps the fudge set to the perfect texture.
- Prevent Stickiness: Lining the pan well prevents sticking and makes clean-up a breeze, especially when cutting the fudge into neat squares.
How to Serve Maple Walnut Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
I like to sprinkle a few extra chopped walnuts or a light dusting of cinnamon on top just before serving — it adds a pretty finishing touch and amps up the flavor. Sometimes, I drizzle a little melted dark chocolate for a bit of contrast that my kids absolutely adore.
Side Dishes
This fudge pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or black tea to balance the sweetness. For holiday gatherings, I sometimes serve it alongside fresh fruit or even a small scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, I like cutting the fudge into small rounds using a cookie cutter for a more elegant look. Wrapping individual pieces in colored parchment paper makes them perfect for gifting—always a hit with neighbors and friends!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I keep leftover fudge in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays deliciously fresh like this for up to two weeks, which is great when I want to make it ahead for parties or just have a stash ready for a sweet craving.
Freezing
Freezing fudge works surprisingly well! I wrap individual pieces in wax paper, then place them in a freezer-safe container. When I want some, I just thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours — no noticeable change in texture or flavor.
Reheating
Fudge is best enjoyed at room temperature, so if your pieces are super cold from the fridge or freezer, just leave them out for 30 minutes or so before serving. Avoid microwaving because it can melt the texture and make things sticky.
FAQs
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Can I substitute maple extract with real maple syrup?
While you can try adding real maple syrup, it adds extra liquid which might affect the fudge’s texture and setting process. Maple extract provides concentrated flavor without changing the consistency, so it’s best for this recipe.
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Is it necessary to use sweetened condensed milk?
Yes, sweetened condensed milk helps bind the fudge and adds the luscious creamy sweetness unique to this recipe. Using alternatives might change the texture drastically.
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How long does this fudge last?
Stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge, it will stay fresh for about two weeks. Freezing can extend the life up to 3 months.
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Can I make this fudge without nuts?
Absolutely! Simply omit the walnuts for a smooth, creamy maple fudge. You can also add other mix-ins like dried fruit if you want to keep some texture.
Final Thoughts
I absolutely love how this Maple Walnut Fudge Recipe always turns out rich, creamy, and so satisfyingly nutty. It’s become my little secret for quick homemade gifts and a treat I know everyone will love. Once you try making it yourself, I’m sure you’ll be hooked just like me — easy, delicious, and perfect for nearly any occasion.
Print
Maple Walnut Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 25 pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Maple Walnut Fudge is a rich and creamy treat combining the sweetness of white chocolate and maple extract with the crunch of coarsely chopped walnuts. Easy to prepare using either a microwave or stovetop method, this fudge sets beautifully in the fridge for a decadent dessert or snack.
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 2 2/3 cups white chocolate chips (16 ounces)
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 ounces)
Flavoring and Add-ins
- 1 1/2 teaspoons maple extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups coarsely chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8 or 9-inch square baking pan with lightly greased parchment paper or non-stick foil to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the fudge.
- Melt Chocolate and Milk: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Microwave at 70% power for 90 seconds. Then, stir using the residual heat until the mixture is smooth and the chocolate is fully melted. If any lumps remain, microwave in additional 15-second intervals, stirring well after each, until completely smooth. Alternatively, melt the mixture using a double boiler setup on the stovetop by placing the bowl over simmering water, stirring until smooth.
- Add Flavor and Nuts: Stir in the maple extract and a pinch of salt to the smooth chocolate mixture. Fold in the coarsely chopped walnuts thoroughly until evenly distributed.
- Set and Chill: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Refrigerate for several hours until firm and well set.
- Serve: Once chilled and set, cut the fudge into approximately 25 small squares and enjoy.
Notes
- This fudge can be easily prepared either in a microwave or on the stovetop using a double boiler.
- Using parchment paper or non-stick foil ensures the fudge releases cleanly from the pan.
- Adjust maple extract amount to taste if a stronger maple flavor is desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approximately)
- Calories: 195 kcal
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 40 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
