There’s nothing quite like the cozy warmth of a sweet treat on a crisp autumn evening, and Maple Pecan Fudge is the perfect companion. Imagine the rich aroma of maple syrup filling your kitchen as the soft, creamy fudge sets, dotted with crunchy, toasted pecans for the perfect balance of flavor and texture. This indulgent treat is ideal for festive holidays, afternoon tea, or as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.

The inspiration for this recipe comes from the classic flavors of North American fall desserts, where maple syrup and pecans are staples in both sweets and breakfast treats. Combining them into a luscious fudge elevates these familiar flavors into something truly indulgent and shareable. Maple Pecan Fudge is easy enough for beginners yet impressive enough to become a family favorite. Its sweet, nutty profile pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or even enjoyed on its own as a special treat.

Ingredients

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter

• 2/3 cup pure maple syrup

• 1/2 cup evaporated milk

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

• 1/4 teaspoon maple extract (optional, for extra flavor)

Directions

1. Prepare Your Pan

Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment paper with butter or non-stick spray to prevent the fudge from sticking. This small step ensures that your fudge will come out cleanly and maintain its smooth, glossy surface.

2. Toast the Pecans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chopped pecans evenly on a baking sheet and toast them for 5–8 minutes, stirring once halfway through. Toasting enhances their flavor and adds a subtle crunch to the fudge. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning, as nuts can go from perfectly toasted to bitter very quickly.

3. Combine Sugar, Butter, Maple Syrup, and Milk

In a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, pure maple syrup, and evaporated milk. Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves. This ensures a smooth base without any grainy texture in your finished fudge.

4. Boil the Mixture

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, continuing to stir frequently. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature, and allow it to reach 234°F (112°C), which is known as the soft-ball stage. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test by dropping a small amount of the mixture into cold water. If it forms a soft, pliable ball, it’s ready.

5. Remove from Heat and Add Chocolate

Remove the saucepan from heat immediately to prevent overcooking. Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips, vanilla extract, salt, and maple extract (if using). Stir continuously until the chocolate melts completely and the mixture becomes smooth and glossy. The key here is consistent stirring to prevent the chocolate from seizing or creating lumps.

6. Fold in the Pecans

Once the chocolate is fully incorporated, gently fold in the toasted pecans. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the fudge for consistent flavor and texture in every bite.

7. Pour into Prepared Pan

Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Smooth the surface for a clean, professional look. You can optionally sprinkle a few extra toasted pecans on top for added visual appeal and crunch.

8. Let It Set

Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for 2–3 hours, or until it is fully set. For a quicker option, place the pan in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours. Avoid cutting the fudge while it is still warm, as this can cause it to crumble instead of forming clean squares.

9. Cut and Serve

Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the fudge from the pan. Place it on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut it into 1-inch squares. For clean edges, wipe the knife with a warm, damp cloth between cuts. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Tips for Perfect Maple Pecan Fudge

1. Use Real Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup provides the depth of flavor that imitation syrups can’t match. Look for Grade A or Grade B maple syrup for the best taste.

2. Don’t Skip the Candy Thermometer: Accurate temperature is key for smooth, creamy fudge. Overcooking can result in hard, brittle fudge.

3. Stir Constantly: This prevents scorching and ensures that all ingredients combine into a uniform mixture.

4. Room Temperature Ingredients: Using butter and milk at room temperature helps them incorporate more smoothly.

5. Add Extra Texture: Consider adding a pinch of sea salt on top before the fudge sets for a subtle contrast to the sweetness.

Variations to Try

• Chocolate Pecan Swirl: Mix half of the fudge base with milk chocolate and swirl it into the maple pecan mixture before setting.

• White Chocolate Maple Pecan Fudge: Substitute white chocolate chips for semi-sweet chocolate for a creamy, sweet twist.

• Nut-Free Option: Replace pecans with roasted pumpkin seeds or simply omit the nuts for a smooth, nut-free fudge.

• Spiced Maple Pecan Fudge: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture for a warm, autumn-inspired flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Maple Pecan Fudge is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:

• Holiday Treats: Wrap squares in festive cellophane bags and give them as gifts.

• Dessert Platters: Combine with other bite-sized desserts for a crowd-pleasing platter.

• Afternoon Snack: Pair with coffee or tea for a mid-afternoon indulgence.

• Ice Cream Topping: Crumble over vanilla or maple ice cream for added texture and flavor.

Why Maple Pecan Fudge is a Must-Try

This fudge is more than just a sweet treat—it’s a celebration of classic autumn flavors. The buttery sweetness of maple syrup pairs beautifully with the nutty crunch of toasted pecans, creating a texture that’s both soft and satisfying. It’s easy to prepare, visually appealing, and makes a perfect gift or centerpiece for holiday gatherings.

Additionally, Maple Pecan Fudge embodies the joy of homemade desserts. There’s something comforting about stirring a rich mixture on the stove, waiting for it to set, and then savoring the first bite. Its simplicity allows the quality ingredients—real maple syrup, fresh butter, and toasted nuts—to shine. This recipe also encourages creativity, offering endless opportunities for flavor variations and presentation styles.

Storage and Shelf Life

• Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to one week.

• Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to two weeks; allow fudge to soften at room temperature before serving.

• Freezing: Wrap in plastic and freeze for up to three months; thaw before enjoying.

Proper storage ensures that your fudge maintains its creamy texture and rich flavor for longer periods, allowing you to make batches ahead of holidays or special occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this fudge ahead of time?
Absolutely. Maple Pecan Fudge is one of those desserts that actually benefits from a little advance preparation. You can make it up to two weeks before you plan to serve it, which makes it perfect for holidays, parties, or gifting. Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to enjoy it within a week, or place it in the refrigerator if you want it to last a bit longer. The key is keeping it well-sealed to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors from your kitchen. When you’re ready to serve, allow the fudge to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes. This softens it slightly, giving it that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture while still keeping the pecans crunchy.

2. Can I freeze maple pecan fudge?
Yes, freezing is a great option for extending the shelf life of your fudge or preparing it for later use. To freeze, cut the fudge into individual squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped pieces into a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, ensuring minimal exposure to air. Properly stored, fudge can last in the freezer for up to three months without losing its flavor or texture. When you want to enjoy it, simply remove the desired amount and let it thaw at room temperature for a few hours. For best results, avoid microwaving frozen fudge, as this can alter the texture and make it less creamy. Freezing is also a convenient way to have ready-made treats for last-minute gatherings or holiday gift boxes.

3. Can I use a different type of nut?
Definitely. While pecans are the traditional choice for this recipe, other nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts work beautifully. Toasting the nuts beforehand enhances their natural flavor and adds a satisfying crunch to the fudge. You can even experiment with a mix of nuts for a more complex texture. For a nut-free option, simply omit the nuts or substitute with roasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds, which also provide a delightful crunch without altering the flavor too drastically.

4. How can I make the fudge creamier?
Achieving a smooth, creamy texture comes down to careful cooking and thorough stirring. Avoid overcooking past the soft-ball stage, as this can make the fudge grainy or too firm. Make sure the chocolate is fully melted and evenly incorporated into the mixture. For an extra touch of creaminess, you can add a teaspoon of corn syrup while cooking; this helps prevent crystallization and gives the fudge a silky, rich consistency. Additionally, using room-temperature butter and milk can improve the overall smoothness of your fudge.

Maple Pecan Fudge Recipe

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 16–20 squares 1x

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Description

Indulge in the rich, buttery flavor of Maple Pecan Fudge, a sweet treat perfect for cozy evenings, holiday gatherings, or homemade gifts. This fudge combines the deep sweetness of pure maple syrup with the nutty crunch of toasted pecans, creating a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth dessert that’s simple to make yet impressively decadent.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter

• 2/3 cup pure maple syrup

• 1/2 cup evaporated milk

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

• 1/4 teaspoon maple extract (optional)

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Instructions

• Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 5–8 minutes, stirring once halfway through.

• In a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, butter, maple syrup, and evaporated milk. Stir over medium heat until butter melts and sugar dissolves.

• Bring mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly, until it reaches 234°F (soft-ball stage). Test by dropping a small amount into cold water—it should form a soft, pliable ball.

• Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips, vanilla extract, salt, and maple extract (if using) until smooth.

• Fold in toasted pecans, ensuring even distribution.

• Pour fudge into prepared pan and smooth the surface with a spatula. Optionally, sprinkle extra pecans on top.

• Let fudge cool at room temperature for 2–3 hours, or refrigerate for 1–2 hours until set.

• Use parchment overhang to lift fudge from pan and cut into 1-inch squares.

Notes

• Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent scorching.

• Stir constantly to ensure a smooth texture.

• Adjust pecan quantity to your preference.

• Sprinkle extra toasted pecans or drizzle melted chocolate for decoration.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes

Michelle Davis