Quick Caramel Apple Fudge: An Easy, Decadent Fall Treat Recipe
An effortless autumn confection delivering cozy flavors and chewy bites in every square.
Quick Caramel Apple Fudge
When the leaves start to turn and there’s a crisp chill in the air, nothing beats a comforting batch of homemade fudge—with a twist. This Quick Caramel Apple Fudge is your new favorite fall treat: ultra-rich, buttery, and packed with little bursts of dried apple and swirls of dulce de leche. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make, even for the novice candy maker.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s quick to make, simple to share, and packed with seasonal flavors, this recipe is for you. The bold apple notes, creamy caramel, and buttery texture make this fudge the perfect autumn indulgence. It’s a fantastic option for holiday parties, potlucks, or wrapped up as a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Effortless: No candy thermometer or complicated steps—just a microwave, a spoon, and some patience.
- Celebrates Fall: Fresh, tart apples are swapped for dried ones, adding texture and a hint of apple pie flavor to every bite.
- Rich, Buttery, and Slightly Salty: Dulce de leche, a thick Latin-style caramel, gives the fudge depth and a creamy mouthfeel.
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dulce de leche | 14 ounces (1 can) |
| White chocolate chips | 21 ounces |
| Unsalted butter | 3 tablespoons |
| Coarse sea salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Dried apples | 1 cup, finely chopped |
That’s it! With just five ingredients, you’re on your way to fudge heaven.
What Is Dulce de Leche?
Dulce de leche is a thick, sweet caramelized milk product popular in Latin America, and it’s the hero of this recipe. Unlike regular caramel sauce, which is thin and pourable, dulce de leche is dense, spreadable, and incredibly rich. It’s made by slowly simmering sweetened condensed milk until it turns golden and develops a deep caramel flavor and color.
- Taste: Deeply caramelized, with hints of vanilla and a creaminess reminiscent of caramel pudding.
- Texture: Thick, like peanut butter.
- Availability: Most well-stocked supermarkets carry it, often near the condensed milk or international foods aisle. Large chains like Walmart usually stock it.
- DIY Option: You can make your own by heating a can of sweetened condensed milk in a slow cooker or on the stove.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Pan
- Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with wax paper or parchment paper, leaving enough overhang so you can easily lift the fudge out later.
2. Chop the Apples
- Chop the dried apples into small (about 1/4 inch) pieces for even distribution throughout the fudge. This ensures you get a little apple in every bite.
3. Melt the Fudge Base
- Combine the dulce de leche, white chocolate chips, butter, and salt in a large microwave-safe bowl.
- Microwave in one-minute intervals, stirring vigorously between each interval. It usually takes 3–6 minutes total for everything to melt together into a smooth, glossy mixture—be patient and keep stirring!
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4. Fold in the Apples
- Once the fudge base is completely smooth, remove it from the microwave and stir in all of the chopped dried apples.
- Mix until the apples are evenly distributed.
5. Pour and Set
- Carefully pour the fudge into the prepared pan, spreading it into an even layer with a spatula.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is firm enough to slice.
6. Slice and Serve
- Use the wax paper overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan. Cut into squares with a sharp knife.
- Store in an airtight container until ready to serve.
Tips for Perfect Caramel Apple Fudge
- Texture: For the creamiest results, use real white chocolate chips and high-quality dulce de leche (look for brands like Nestle La Lechera).
- Mixing: Stir the fudge mixture well between microwave intervals. This helps avoid overheating and ensures a smooth, uniform texture.
- Apple Choices: Dried apple rings from the bulk section work well, but you can also find packaged “apple chips” at many grocery stores. Just avoid heavily seasoned or sweetened varieties.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks, or freeze for up to a month. Let frozen fudge thaw in the fridge before serving for best texture.
- Serving: For something extra, drizzle with a little extra dulce de leche or sprinkle with flaky sea salt just before serving.
How to Adapt This Recipe
While this recipe shines in its simplicity, there are a few easy ways to customize it:
- Add Nuts: Stir in chopped toasted pecans or walnuts with the dried apples for extra crunch.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice to the melted mixture to enhance the fall flavors.
- For Gifts: Layer squares between sheets of wax paper in a pretty box or tin for an edible holiday present.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use caramel sauce instead of dulce de leche?
Dulce de leche is much thicker and richer than regular caramel sauce, so the fudge’s texture and depth of flavor will be affected if you substitute. For best results, stick with dulce de leche.
Can I make this recipe without a microwave?
Yes! You can melt the dulce de leche, white chocolate, and butter together in a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of gently simmering water (a double boiler). Stir often until smooth, then finish the recipe as directed.
What’s the best way to chop dried apples?
Use a sharp chef’s knife and a stable cutting board. For safety, you can also use kitchen shears, especially if working with apple rings.
How should I store leftover fudge?
Keep fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze with parchment between layers.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, as written, the recipe is gluten-free—just double-check your dulce de leche and white chocolate labels if sensitivity is a concern.
What’s the secret to perfectly smooth fudge?
The key is microwaving in short bursts and stirring well between each interval. This prevents overheating and ensures a creamy texture.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
Unlike traditional caramel apple fudge recipes that use apple cider drink mix and melted marshmallows, this version skips the fuss and delivers apple flavor through chewy dried fruit and caramel goodness with dulce de leche. It’s a modern take on a nostalgic treat, and the simplicity makes it a go-to for busy hosts, beginner bakers, and anyone craving a little taste of fall in every bite.
Caramel Apple Fudge: A Seasonal Must-Try
This fudge is a natural follow-up to classic fall desserts like caramel apple pie, but it’s even easier to make and just as delicious. With its festive appearance and beloved flavors, it’s destined for holiday tables, bake sales, and cookie exchanges. So grab your ingredients and get ready to impress—this quick caramel apple fudge is the little slice of autumn you didn’t know you needed.
References
- https://thefirstyearblog.com/caramel-apple-fudge/
- https://tastykitchen.com/recipes/desserts/quick-caramel-apple-fudge-2/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a11297/scrumptous-and-i-do-mean-scrumptous-apple-pie/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a81055/quick-caramel-apple-fudge/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g41586123/fudge-recipes/
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