If you have a sweet tooth and a love for coffee, this Caramel Coffee Fudge Recipe is going to feel like a little slice of heaven in every bite. It’s a perfect balance of creamy white chocolate, rich caramel, and vibrant coffee flavor all swirled together in a luscious fudge that melts on your tongue and leaves you wanting more. Whether you’re sharing with friends or keeping it as a special treat for yourself, this fudge brings a sophisticated yet comforting twist to classic sweets that’s surprisingly easy to make and utterly addictive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Caramel Coffee Fudge Recipe plays an essential role in bringing out a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the silky white chocolate chips to the deep coffee infusion and creamy caramel swirls, these essentials are simple yet incredibly effective in crafting something truly special.
- White chocolate chips: Provide a smooth, sweet base that melts beautifully for that perfect fudge consistency.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds creamy sweetness and helps bind the fudge for a luscious texture.
- Instant coffee granules: Give the fudge its delightful coffee kick without bitterness.
- Hot water: Used to dissolve the coffee granules thoroughly, ensuring even flavor throughout.
- Caramel sauce: Introduces buttery, rich swirls that contrast gorgeously with the coffee notes.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
- Sea salt (optional): A pinch adds a sensational sweet-salty balance that heightens all the flavors.
How to Make Caramel Coffee Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang on the sides. This little trick makes removing the fudge a breeze once it’s set, and prevents any sticky situations later on.
Step 2: Dissolve the Coffee
In a small bowl, stir the instant coffee granules into hot water until they’re fully dissolved. This ensures the coffee flavor integrates smoothly without any graininess or clumps, giving your fudge that signature rich coffee essence.
Step 3: Make the Fudge Base
Combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a medium saucepan. Over medium heat, stir constantly until the chocolate melts completely and the mixture becomes silky and smooth. This step is key to achieving that creamy fudge texture.
Step 4: Add Coffee and Vanilla
Pour the dissolved coffee mixture and vanilla extract into the melted white chocolate base. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are beautifully blended, creating a fragrant, coffee-infused fudge batter.
Step 5: Create the Caramel Swirl
Spread half of your fudge mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Drizzle half the caramel sauce on top, then pour the remaining fudge over it. Drizzle the rest of the caramel sauce and gently swirl it through the fudge using a knife or toothpick. This swirl will give every bite a luscious caramel ribbon.
Step 6: Add a Touch of Salt (Optional)
If you’re feeling adventurous or just love that sweet-salty combo, sprinkle a light pinch of sea salt on top before chilling. It’s an incredible way to elevate those flavors to the next level.
Step 7: Set the Fudge
Pop the pan into the refrigerator for at least 2 to 3 hours so the fudge can firm up nicely. Patience here is rewarded with perfect slicing and that dreamy melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 8: Serve
Once set, lift the fudge out by the parchment overhang and cut into squares or bite-sized pieces. Now you’re ready to enjoy your masterpiece!
How to Serve Caramel Coffee Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a dusting of cocoa powder can add an elegant finishing touch. You might also toss on a few chopped toasted nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for an extra crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy fudge.
Side Dishes
This Caramel Coffee Fudge Recipe pairs wonderfully with a hot espresso or a creamy latte to amplify those coffee flavors. It’s also a fantastic sweet ending alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For gifting or parties, arrange your fudge pieces in a pretty tin lined with parchment paper or stack them in a clear glass jar tied with a rustic ribbon. You can also use mini cupcake liners to give each piece its own little throne, making every treat feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your caramel coffee fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. This preserves the creamy texture and keeps the flavors fresh, so you can indulge bit by bit without losing any of the magic.
Freezing
If you want to save this treat for later, you can freeze the fudge for up to three months. Just wrap the pieces tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.
Reheating
Fudge is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is usually unnecessary. However, if you prefer a slightly softer texture, simply leave the fudge out for 15-20 minutes before serving to let it gently warm up.
FAQs
Can I use regular coffee instead of instant granules?
Instant coffee granules dissolve completely and provide a concentrated flavor, which works best for this recipe. Using brewed coffee might add too much liquid and affect the fudge consistency.
Is it okay to use homemade caramel sauce?
Absolutely! Homemade caramel sauce adds a lovely personal touch and can be customized for sweetness or thickness. Just make sure it’s not too runny to maintain those beautiful swirls.
Can I substitute dark chocolate for white chocolate?
You could, but it will change the flavor profile significantly. Dark chocolate brings a more bitter note, while white chocolate offers creamy sweetness that complements both coffee and caramel perfectly.
How long does it take for the fudge to set properly?
It needs at least 2 to 3 hours in the refrigerator to firm up nicely. For extra firmness, you can leave it overnight.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Definitely! Chopped nuts, toffee bits, or even a sprinkle of sea salt flakes before chilling can add delightful texture and flavor contrasts.
Final Thoughts
Making this Caramel Coffee Fudge Recipe is like crafting a little batch of happiness, blending smooth sweetness with a bold coffee buzz and luscious caramel swirls. Whether you’re looking for a unique dessert for guests or a comforting treat to brighten your day, this fudge is a winner every time. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will become a beloved staple in your kitchen just like it is in mine.
Print
Caramel Coffee Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in a rich and creamy Caramel Coffee Fudge that combines the sweetness of white chocolate and caramel with a bold coffee kick. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for coffee lovers looking for a luscious dessert with smooth caramel swirls and a hint of sea salt for that irresistible sweet and salty flavor combination.
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 2 ½ cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons instant coffee granules
- ¼ cup hot water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Caramel Swirl
- ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Optional Topping
- A pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring there is an overhang on the sides for easy removal of the fudge later.
- Dissolve the Coffee: In a small bowl, mix the instant coffee granules with hot water until fully dissolved. Set this coffee mixture aside.
- Make the Fudge Base: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly until the chocolate melts completely and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Coffee and Vanilla: Stir the dissolved coffee and vanilla extract into the melted chocolate mixture, mixing thoroughly until well combined.
- Create the Caramel Swirl: Pour half of the coffee fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over it. Next, pour the remaining fudge mixture on top, spreading it evenly. Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce and use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl the caramel throughout the fudge for a marbled effect.
- Add a Touch of Salt (Optional): Lightly sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the top of the fudge for a subtle sweet and salty contrast.
- Set the Fudge: Place the baking dish in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 to 3 hours, or until the fudge is firm and set.
- Serve: Lift the fudge out using the parchment paper overhang, cut into squares or bite-sized pieces.
- Enjoy: Savor the smooth texture, rich caramel sweetness, and invigorating coffee flavor of this delicious Caramel Coffee Fudge.
Notes
- Ensure to stir the chocolate mixture constantly to prevent it from burning or sticking to the pan.
- For a stronger coffee flavor, you can increase the instant coffee granules slightly, but avoid adding too much liquid to maintain fudge consistency.
- Use high-quality white chocolate chips and caramel sauce for the best flavor.
- This fudge can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- To serve, let the fudge sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly for easier biting.
