Salted Caramel Pecan Fudge Everyone Will Love

There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of warm caramel and toasted pecans filling the kitchen. Whether it’s a cozy evening curled up with a cup of tea, a weekend treat for family and friends, or a simple indulgence to brighten a regular day, Salted Caramel Pecan Fudge is the ultimate sweet treat that brings people together. Inspired by the timeless combination of buttery caramel and crunchy pecans, this recipe transforms these classic flavors into a rich, creamy fudge that melts in your mouth. The perfect balance of sweet and salty makes it irresistible, and its homemade charm adds a personal touch to any occasion. Once you try this fudge, it’s bound to become a staple for gatherings, gift-giving, or quiet moments of indulgence.

Ingredients

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

• 1/2 cup caramel sauce, homemade or store-bought

• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt for sprinkling

Directions

1. Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter. Set aside.

2. Toast the pecans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from oven and let cool.

3. Make the caramel base: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, heavy cream, unsalted butter, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a gentle boil.

4. Cook the fudge mixture: Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture reaches 234°F (soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer, about 10–12 minutes. Remove from heat.

5. Add flavorings and pecans: Stir in the vanilla extract, toasted pecans, and caramel sauce until fully incorporated and smooth.

6. Pour and set: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading evenly with a spatula. Smooth the top and sprinkle lightly with sea salt.

7. Chill until firm: Refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours, or until the fudge is completely set.

8. Cut and serve: Once set, lift the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper edges and cut into small squares. Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: 24 pieces

Notes

• Choosing your pecans: Fresh, high-quality pecans will enhance the flavor and texture. Toasting them brings out a richer, nuttier flavor.

• Caramel sauce tips: If making caramel from scratch, ensure it is smooth and slightly cooled before adding to the fudge to avoid separating.

• Salted touch: A sprinkle of sea salt on top balances the sweetness beautifully. Adjust according to preference.

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life. Freeze for up to 3 months if needed.

• Cutting tips: For clean edges, warm your knife under hot water and wipe it dry before cutting each row.

Why This Salted Caramel Pecan Fudge Is a Must-Try

What makes this fudge truly special is its perfect harmony of flavors. The buttery richness of caramel, the crunch of pecans, and the subtle touch of salt come together to create a treat that feels both luxurious and comforting. Unlike many desserts that are overly sweet, this fudge offers a balanced taste profile that appeals to both kids and adults. It’s versatile too: serve it alongside a cup of coffee or tea, gift it in a decorative box, or use it as a decadent topping for ice cream or cakes.

Tips for Perfect Fudge Every Time

1. Use a candy thermometer: Hitting the right temperature ensures your fudge sets properly without being too soft or too hard.

2. Stir continuously: Constant stirring prevents the sugar from crystallizing, ensuring a smooth, creamy texture.

3. Room temperature ingredients: Using room-temperature butter and cream helps the ingredients incorporate more evenly.

4. Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to swap or add nuts like almonds or walnuts for variety. Some even enjoy drizzling extra caramel or dark chocolate on top for a finishing touch.

Fun Serving Ideas

• Gift-ready squares: Wrap individual pieces in parchment paper or place in a decorative tin for birthdays, thank-you gifts, or housewarming presents.

• Fudge dessert bars: Layer over brownies or cake for an extra indulgent dessert.

• Party treats: Cut into bite-sized pieces and serve on a dessert platter for family gatherings or office parties.

Healthier Adaptations

For those seeking a slightly lighter option without sacrificing flavor:

• Substitute half of the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a subtle twist.

• Use natural caramel made with coconut sugar for a more natural sweetness.

• Reduce sugar slightly if you prefer a less intense sweet flavor, though this will slightly affect the texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this fudge ahead of time?
Absolutely! One of the best things about Salted Caramel Pecan Fudge is how well it holds up when made ahead of time. You can prepare the fudge up to a week in advance if you store it in an airtight container at room temperature, keeping it fresh and soft. This makes it perfect for planning ahead for parties, family gatherings, or gifting. If you want to make it even earlier, the fudge freezes beautifully for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature for a few hours. The flavor and texture remain just as indulgent as when freshly made, so you can enjoy rich, creamy fudge without the last-minute rush. For longer storage, consider wrapping individual pieces in parchment paper before placing them in the container—this helps prevent sticking and makes serving even easier.

2. How do I achieve a smooth and creamy texture?
Getting that perfect, silky texture is key to a memorable fudge experience. The trick lies in the cooking process. Using a candy thermometer is essential; you’ll want the mixture to reach the soft-ball stage, which is about 234°F. Stir continuously during cooking to prevent the sugar from crystallizing, which can make the fudge grainy. Adding butter and cream gradually, rather than all at once, helps everything blend smoothly. Once you remove the pan from heat, stirring in the vanilla, toasted pecans, and caramel sauce thoroughly ensures a uniform consistency. With these steps, your fudge will be luxuriously creamy and melt-in-your-mouth perfect every time.

3. Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?
Definitely! While pecans provide a classic flavor and crunch, this recipe is versatile enough to accommodate other nuts. Walnuts, almonds, or macadamia nuts work beautifully and add their own distinct textures and flavors. Toasting the nuts lightly before adding them to the fudge enhances their natural aroma and crunch, creating a more layered taste experience. You can also experiment with a nut mix for variety, though be mindful of balancing flavors so that the sweetness and caramel notes remain prominent.

4. How do I store and serve fudge for gatherings?
Proper storage is crucial to keeping your fudge fresh, soft, and easy to serve. At room temperature, fudge can last up to a week in an airtight container. For extended freshness, refrigeration is a great option, keeping it for up to two weeks. When serving at gatherings, cut the fudge into bite-sized squares and arrange them neatly on a platter. If the fudge has become a little firm, warming it for 5–10 seconds in the microwave can make it easier to bite while maintaining its creamy texture. Fudge also works wonderfully for gifting—consider wrapping small squares in parchment paper or decorative boxes for a thoughtful homemade treat.

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Pecan Fudge is more than just a sweet treat; it’s a memory-making dessert. Its rich, creamy texture, sweet-and-salty flavor, and crunchy pecans make it irresistible. Easy to make yet impressively decadent, this fudge is perfect for any occasion—whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening at home, sharing a homemade gift, or delighting guests at a party. By following these simple steps, you can create a dessert that’s not only delicious but also evokes the cozy warmth of homemade treats. Don’t wait for a special occasion—this fudge is worthy of any day you want to make extraordinary.

Salted Caramel Pecan Fudge Everyone Will Love

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 24 pieces 1x

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Description

A rich and indulgent treat that perfectly balances sweet caramel, crunchy toasted pecans, and a hint of salt. This fudge is creamy, melt-in-your-mouth delicious, and perfect for sharing or gifting. Inspired by the timeless combination of caramel and nuts, it’s ideal for cozy evenings, family gatherings, or simply enjoying a homemade sweet treat anytime.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

• 1/2 cup caramel sauce, homemade or store-bought

• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt for sprinkling

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Instructions

• Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter. Set aside.

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 5–7 minutes until fragrant. Let cool.

• In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, heavy cream, butter, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Stir until it comes to a gentle boil.

• Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the mixture reaches 234°F (soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer, about 10–12 minutes. Remove from heat.

• Stir in vanilla extract, toasted pecans, and caramel sauce until smooth and fully incorporated.

• Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Sprinkle with sea salt on top.

• Refrigerate for 2–3 hours or until completely set.

• Lift fudge from the pan using parchment edges and cut into squares. Store in an airtight container.

Notes

• Use fresh, high-quality pecans for the best flavor and texture. Toasting enhances their nuttiness.

• If making caramel from scratch, allow it to cool slightly before adding to the fudge to prevent separation.

• Adjust sea salt topping according to taste preference.

• Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life. Freeze for up to 3 months if needed.

• For clean cuts, warm your knife under hot water and wipe it dry before slicing.

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

Michelle Davis