If you have a sweet tooth and love that rich, buttery goodness with just a hint of nuttiness, then you’ll absolutely adore this Maple Walnut White Chocolate Fudge Recipe. I promise, it’s super simple but delivers that indulgent flavor punch that makes everyone ask for seconds. Trust me, when I first tried this fudge, my family couldn’t believe how creamy and flavorful it was – and the walnuts add the perfect crunch. Keep reading, because I’ll walk you through every step to make sure your fudge turns out perfect every single time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy and Quick: You can whip this fudge up in under 15 minutes – perfect for last-minute treats.
- Delicious Flavor Combo: The maple and white chocolate blend beautifully with crunchy walnuts for a unique taste.
- Flexible Method: Whether you prefer the microwave or stove-top, this recipe has you covered.
- Perfect for Gifts: It’s a crowd-pleaser that always impresses friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient here plays a key role in making this fudge rich, creamy, and irresistibly flavorful. Let’s talk about what you’ll want on hand and some tips on picking the best stuff.
- White chocolate chips: I always use high-quality white chocolate chips – they melt smoothly and give that lovely creamy texture you want in fudge. Make sure it’s REAL white chocolate, not a white candy coating.
- Sweetened condensed milk: This is the magic ingredient that makes the fudge extra creamy and sweet without needing tons of sugar.
- Maple extract: It packs a punch of maple flavor; pure maple syrup is more liquidy, so this extract works better in fudge.
- Salt: Just a pinch helps balance the sweetness and enhances the flavors overall.
- Walnuts: Coarsely chopped walnuts add the perfect crunchy texture. Toast them lightly for an even richer flavor if you’ve got the time.
Variations
One of the things I love about this Maple Walnut White Chocolate Fudge Recipe is how easy it is to make your own. I’ve tried a few tweaks over the years, and I encourage you to play around with it so it suits your taste perfectly.
- Swap the nuts: I’ve substituted pecans or even pistachios – both add a fun spin and change the texture just enough to keep it interesting.
- Use almond extract: If you don’t have maple extract, almond extract is a great fallback that pairs well with white chocolate.
- Add dried fruit: Toss in dried cranberries or cherries for a pop of tartness that contrasts beautifully with the sweet fudge.
- Make it vegan: Use dairy-free white chocolate and coconut condensed milk to adapt this fudge for vegan diets, though note texture might be a bit different.
How to Make Maple Walnut White Chocolate Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan for Easy Removal
Start by lining an 8 or 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. I like to lightly grease the parchment so the fudge releases effortlessly later. Trust me, this little step saves you from wrestling with fudge stuck to the pan – not fun!
Step 2: Melt the White Chocolate and Condensed Milk
Combine your white chocolate chips and the entire can of sweetened condensed milk in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on 70% power for 90 seconds. This lower power level prevents the chocolate from scorching. After the time’s up, stir well to help melt any remaining chunks. If it’s still a little lumpy, heat for 15-second intervals and stir until your mixture is creamy and smooth. If you don’t have a microwave or prefer the stove-top, melt these ingredients gently over a double boiler – just keep stirring to prevent burning.
Step 3: Flavor and Fold in Walnuts
Once your chocolate mixture is silky, stir in the maple extract and a pinch of salt. The salt really wakes up the flavors and balances the sweetness. Gently fold in the chopped walnuts, mixing just enough so every bite gets that perfect nutty crunch without breaking them down too much.
Step 4: Pour, Chill, and Cut
Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Pop it into the fridge for several hours – I usually let it chill overnight just to be sure it sets up nicely. When it’s firm, lift it from the pan using the parchment edges and slice into small squares. This fudge is rich, so little pieces go a long way!
Pro Tips for Making Maple Walnut White Chocolate Fudge Recipe
- Avoid Overheating: White chocolate can seize if it gets too hot, so always melt gently and stir frequently.
- Use Quality Ingredients: The maple extract and walnuts really shine especially if you use fresh, good-quality nuts and pure extract.
- Even Chopping: Chop walnuts coarsely but evenly so every piece feels balanced in texture and bite.
- Let It Fully Set: Be patient with chilling; fudge that isn’t firm can be sticky and messy to cut.
How to Serve Maple Walnut White Chocolate Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
I like to sprinkle a few extra chopped walnuts on top right before chilling, just for a pretty rustic look and some extra crunch. Sometimes I dust a little cinnamon or nutmeg over the fudge for a warm spice note – especially around the holidays. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of melted dark chocolate adds a nice contrast both visually and flavor-wise.
Side Dishes
This fudge pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or chai tea. I’ve also served it alongside a cheese board with mild cheeses like brie to balance the sweetness. For parties, it’s great with fresh fruit like apple slices or pears, which cleanse the palate between bites.
Creative Ways to Present
For gifting or special occasions, I like to cut the fudge into small bite-sized squares and wrap each one individually in wax paper – it feels like a homemade candy shop! You can also layer pieces in a decorative box or mason jar with parchment to keep them fresh and pretty. Adding a cute handwritten tag with the recipe’s name always scores extra brownie points.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftover fudge in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps perfectly for up to two weeks, though honestly, it never lasts that long in my house! Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezing
If you want to make it ahead for a party or holiday, this fudge freezes beautifully. Wrap the cut pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge before serving to keep the best texture. I’ve found freezing doesn’t affect the flavor or creaminess at all.
Reheating
This fudge is best served chilled or at room temperature. If you want to soften it a bit, leave it out for 20-30 minutes before eating. Avoid microwaving leftovers – it can get oily or grainy, which isn’t the best experience with fudge.
FAQs
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Can I use real maple syrup instead of maple extract in this fudge?
While you can use real maple syrup, it’s much more liquid than the extract, which can affect the fudge’s texture. If you do substitute, reduce other liquids in the recipe slightly to keep that perfect fudge consistency. Personally, I prefer the extract because it packs flavor without altering texture.
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What’s the best way to chop walnuts for this recipe?
Use a sharp knife and aim for coarsely chopped pieces—about 1/4 inch in size. This gives you a nice crunch without overwhelming the fudge. Toasting walnuts lightly beforehand will boost their flavor, but it’s optional if you’re short on time.
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Can I make this fudge without a microwave?
Absolutely! Melting the white chocolate and condensed milk on the stove using a double boiler method works perfectly. Just be sure to stir constantly to avoid burning the chocolate. This method is my go-to when I want extra control over the heat.
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Why is my fudge grainy or not smooth?
Graininess usually happens if the chocolate overheats or if ingredients are added too quickly. Melting slowly and stirring gently helps. Also, using quality white chocolate chips designed for melting makes a big difference. Patience during melting is key!
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How long does this fudge keep?
When stored in an airtight container in the fridge, this fudge stays fresh for about two weeks. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Just thaw in the fridge before enjoying to keep that creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
This Maple Walnut White Chocolate Fudge Recipe is one of those gems that I always keep in my back pocket when I want a simple, impressive dessert that charms everyone. The balance of sweet white chocolate with the warm maple flavor and crunchy walnuts hits all the right notes for every occasion. If you’re like me and have had your share of fudge experiments that didn’t quite turn out, this recipe is a reliable winner you’ll come back to again and again. Give it a try – I’m confident you’ll love it as much as my family does!
Print
Maple Walnut White Chocolate Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 25 pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwaving
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in the rich, creamy taste of homemade Maple Walnut Fudge, featuring smooth white chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, and the warm flavor of maple extract accented by crunchy walnuts. This easy-to-make fudge can be prepared quickly in the microwave or on the stovetop, chilled to perfection and cut into bite-sized squares, perfect for a sweet treat or gift.
Ingredients
Fudge Ingredients
- 2 2/3 cups white chocolate chips (16 ounces, see notes)
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 ounces)
- 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.
- Melt Chocolate and Milk: Place the white chocolate chips and the entire can of sweetened condensed milk into a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at 70 percent power for 90 seconds. Stir the mixture well using residual heat to melt the chocolate completely and create a smooth texture. If needed, microwave in additional 15-second intervals until fully melted.
- Alternative Melting Method: If preferred, melt the chocolate and condensed milk on the stovetop using a double boiler or a heatproof bowl placed over a saucepan of simmering water, stirring until smooth.
- Add Flavor and Nuts: Stir in the maple extract and a pinch of salt to enhance flavor, then fold in the coarsely chopped walnuts, mixing thoroughly for even distribution.
- Set the Fudge: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula or spoon.
- Chill: Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for several hours until the fudge is firm and well set.
- Serve: Once set, remove from the pan using the parchment paper edges, cut into approximately 25 squares, and serve.
Notes
- This maple walnut fudge is simple to prepare and can be made either in the microwave or on the stovetop using a double boiler.
- Using high-quality white chocolate chips enhances the flavor and texture of the fudge.
- For a more pronounced maple flavor, adjust the maple extract to taste, but do not exceed 2 teaspoons to avoid overpowering the fudge.
- Store leftover fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 195 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 40 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7.4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg