Indulge in the sweet, buttery goodness of homemade butterscotch fudge with this easy-to-follow recipe. Whether you’re craving a decadent treat for yourself or looking for a delightful gift to share, this fudge is sure to impress with its rich flavor and creamy texture. Made with just a handful of ingredients, it’s perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to simple afternoon delights.
Ingredients:
- 2/3 cup Evaporated milk
- 3 cups Granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup Butter
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1 7 ounce jar Marshmallow cream
- 12 oz Butterscotch chips
- 1 cup Walnuts or pecans (optional, for added crunch)
Instructions:
- Begin by preparing a baking dish. Line it with parchment paper or aluminum foil, allowing for some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Set aside.
- In a large saucepan, combine the evaporated milk, granulated sugar, and butter over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, continue to cook for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. Use a candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches the soft ball stage, around 235-240°F (113-116°C).
- Once the mixture reaches the desired temperature, remove the saucepan from heat. Quickly stir in the vanilla extract, marshmallow cream, and butterscotch chips until smooth and well combined.
- If desired, fold in the walnuts or pecans until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Pour the hot fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer with a spatula.
- Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for about 2 hours, or until fully set. You can also place it in the refrigerator to speed up the process.
- Once set, use the parchment paper or foil overhang to lift the fudge out of the baking dish. Transfer it to a cutting board and slice it into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife.
- Serve and enjoy your homemade butterscotch fudge! Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or pecans from the recipe.
- Feel free to customize your fudge by adding other mix-ins such as chocolate chips, dried fruit, or shredded coconut.
- Experiment with different extracts for unique flavor variations. Try using almond extract or maple extract for a delicious twist.
- For extra flair, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the top of the fudge before it sets for a sweet and salty flavor contrast.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use light or dark brown sugar instead of granulated sugar? A: While you can experiment with different sugars, keep in mind that they may alter the flavor and texture of the fudge. Granulated sugar is preferred for its neutral taste and smooth texture.
Q: How should I store leftover fudge? A: Store any uneaten fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness. Avoid refrigerating it, as this can cause the fudge to become too hard.
Q: Can I freeze butterscotch fudge? A: Yes, butterscotch fudge freezes well. Simply wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Keto Version:
For a keto-friendly version of butterscotch fudge, you can try substituting the granulated sugar with a low-carb sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit. Be sure to use sugar-free butterscotch chips and check the labels on other ingredients to ensure they are keto-friendly.
Indulge in the irresistible sweetness of homemade butterscotch fudge with this easy recipe. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a decadent treat that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether enjoyed as a special dessert or a thoughtful gift, this creamy fudge is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving more.
In case you want more details or have any questions, feel free to reach out. Enjoy your delightful butterscotch fudge!
