Indulge in the creamy, nutty goodness of Maple Butter Pecan Fudge—a treat that’s perfect for holidays, celebrations, or any day you’re craving something sweet and special! Made with rich maple flavors, toasted pecans, and a touch of cinnamon, this recipe combines simplicity with irresistible flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Fudge
This Maple Butter Pecan Fudge is everything a sweet lover dreams of: smooth, buttery, and bursting with flavor. The combination of maple extract and toasted pecans creates a comforting, nostalgic taste that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Best of all, you don’t need fancy equipment or techniques to achieve fudge perfection.
So, grab your saucepan, and let’s create a dessert that will make your kitchen smell amazing and leave you with a plateful of joy.
Key Ingredients for Maple Butter Pecan Fudge
- Butter: Provides richness and helps create the perfect fudge texture.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Adds a luxurious creaminess to the fudge base.
- Brown and Granulated Sugar: A blend of sugars balances sweetness and depth.
- Maple Extract: The star of the show! This gives the fudge its signature flavor.
- Toasted Pecans: Toasting enhances the nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
- Powdered Sugar: Helps thicken the fudge and give it a smooth finish.
- Cinnamon and Salt: Elevate the flavor profile with warmth and balance.
How to Make Maple Butter Pecan Fudge
Prep Time: Before you begin, toast the pecans for a deeper, nuttier flavor. Line your work surface with parchment paper for easy shaping later.
Step 1: Heat the Mixture
Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in heavy cream, both sugars, salt, and cinnamon. Heat the mixture, stirring occasionally, until it boils and reaches 235°F (soft ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
Step 2: Add the Maple Extract
Remove the saucepan from heat and add the maple extract. Resist the urge to stir and let the mixture cool to 105°F—this will take about 30 minutes.
Step 3: Thicken and Combine
Once cooled, stir the mixture vigorously until it thickens and loses its glossy appearance. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, followed by the toasted pecans, ensuring everything is evenly incorporated.
Step 4: Shape and Chill
Transfer the fudge mixture onto a sheet of parchment paper. Shape it into a log or press it into a rectangular block for easier slicing. Refrigerate for 1–2 hours until firm.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Once chilled, slice the fudge into bite-sized pieces. Each square is packed with rich maple flavor and crunchy pecan goodness—perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself).
Tips for Perfect Fudge
- Use a Candy Thermometer: Ensures precision when cooking the sugar mixture.
- Toast the Pecans: Toasting pecans beforehand enhances their flavor and crunch.
- Shape Quickly: The fudge thickens as it cools, so shape it promptly after mixing in the sugar and pecans.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
Maple Butter Pecan Fudge isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience. The warm notes of maple and cinnamon pair beautifully with the buttery crunch of pecans, creating a treat that feels as cozy as a fall afternoon. Plus, its make-ahead nature makes it ideal for gifting or holiday spreads.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Maple Butter Pecan Fudge
While this fudge is delightful on its own, you can elevate the experience with some creative twists. Here are a few ideas to make this treat even more versatile:
- Fudge Gift Boxes: Wrap individual pieces in wax paper or place them in decorative tins for a homemade gift that’s guaranteed to impress.
- Ice Cream Topping: Crumble the fudge over vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. The creamy fudge pairs beautifully with cold, creamy ice cream.
- Dessert Platters: Include the fudge in a holiday dessert spread alongside cookies, brownies, and truffles for a stunning presentation.
- Hot Cocoa Stir-ins: Drop a small piece into a mug of hot cocoa and stir until it melts, creating a rich, maple-flavored twist on your drink.
- Layered Treats: Use the fudge as a layer in a no-bake dessert, such as parfaits or cheesecakes, for a burst of maple sweetness.
FAQs About Maple Butter Pecan Fudge
Q: Can I use a different extract if I don’t have maple extract?
A: Yes! While maple extract gives this fudge its signature flavor, you can substitute vanilla or almond extract for a slightly different taste. However, keep in mind that it will alter the flavor profile.
Q: What if I don’t have a candy thermometer?
A: You can test the fudge mixture by using the soft ball method. Drop a small amount of the boiling mixture into cold water—if it forms a soft, pliable ball, it’s ready.
Q: How do I store the fudge?
A: Store your fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to two weeks or freeze it for up to three months. Be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Q: Can I use unsalted pecans instead of toasted ones?
A: Absolutely! If you prefer a milder nutty flavor, unsalted pecans will work just fine. Toasting adds a deeper flavor but isn’t required.
Q: My fudge turned out grainy—what went wrong?
A: Grainy fudge often happens when the sugar crystals don’t dissolve completely during cooking. Make sure to stir the mixture well as it heats and reaches the correct temperature. Cooling the mixture to 105°F before stirring is also crucial for achieving a smooth texture.
Q: Can I double this recipe?
A: Yes, you can double the ingredients. Just ensure you use a larger saucepan to accommodate the increased volume and adjust the cooking time slightly if necessary.
Q: Is it okay to skip the cinnamon?
A: Yes, the cinnamon is optional but adds a lovely warmth to the flavor. You can omit it if you prefer a pure maple and pecan flavor.
Q: Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
A: Definitely! Walnuts are a great substitute if you prefer their flavor or have them on hand.
Dive into the rich, maple-y bliss of this fudge today—you won’t regret it!
Maple Butter Pecan Fudge
Ingredients
- – ½ cup butter
- – ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- – ½ cup brown sugar
- – ½ cup granulated sugar
- – ¼ tsp salt
- – ½ tsp cinnamon
- – 1 tsp maple extract
- – 2 ¼ cups powdered sugar
- – 1 ⅓ cups toasted pecans chopped
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a medium saucepan. Add the cream, brown sugar, granulated sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Stir and bring the mixture to a boil until it reaches 235°F.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and add the maple extract, but do not stir. Let the mixture cool to 105°F, which takes about 30 minutes.
- Stir the cooled mixture vigorously until it thickens. Mix in the powdered sugar and toasted pecans until everything is well combined.
- Spoon the fudge mixture onto parchment paper, shape it into a log, and refrigerate for 1–2 hours.
- Slice and enjoy your delightful Maple Butter Pecan Fudge!
Notes
- Toasting Pecans: Toast the pecans beforehand for a richer, nuttier flavor. Let them cool before adding to the fudge.
- Temperature Precision: Use a candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches the correct temperatures (235°F when boiling, 105°F before stirring).
- Consistency: Stir vigorously after cooling to achieve the perfect fudge texture.
- Storage: Keep the fudge in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.
- Variations: Swap pecans for walnuts or add a drizzle of melted chocolate for an extra twist.
