Ingredients
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup soft caramels, unwrapped
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- Pinch of sea salt (optional, for a salted caramel touch)
Equipment Needed
- 8×8 inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
- Saucepan
- Microwave-safe bowl (optional)
- Spatula
- Mixing spoon
- Sharp knife
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pan
Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy lifting. Lightly grease the paper.
2. Make the Fudge Base
Add white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter to a saucepan over low heat.
Stir constantly until smooth and fully melted.
Remove from heat and mix in vanilla.
Pour half of the mixture into the lined pan and spread evenly.
3. Make the Caramel Layer
In a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the soft caramels with the heavy cream.
Stir until smooth and pourable.
Spread gently over the fudge base.
4. Add the Final Layer
Pour the remaining fudge mixture over the caramel.
Smooth the top and sprinkle sea salt if desired for a sweet-salty finish.
5. Chill
Refrigerate for 3–4 hours, or until firm enough to slice cleanly.
6. Slice & Enjoy
Lift the fudge out using the parchment overhang.
Cut into squares with a sharp knife.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Pro Tips for Perfect Caramel Fudge
- Choose quality chocolate — the flavor and texture truly depend on it.
- Stir constantly while melting to avoid burning the chocolate.
- Let the fudge fully chill before slicing for clean, neat squares.
- Try swirling caramel on top before chilling for a gorgeous presentation.
- Add nuts for a crunchy contrast if desired.
Variations & Substitutions
- Salted Caramel Fudge: Add sea salt to each layer.
- Nutty Fudge Squares: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the top layer.
- Chocolate Caramel Fudge: Replace half the white chocolate with semisweet chips.
- Peanut Butter Caramel: Add a swirl of peanut butter into the top fudge layer.
- Holiday Version: Add crushed candy canes on top before chilling.
Serving, Pairing & Storage
Serving
Perfect with:
- Coffee
- Hot cocoa
- Tea
- Holiday dessert boards
Serve chilled for the cleanest cuts and smoothest texture.
Storage
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Freezing
Freeze for 2–3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Gifting
Wrap pieces in parchment squares and tie with ribbon for lovely homemade treats.
FAQ
Can I use caramel sauce instead of soft caramels?
No — sauce won’t set properly. Soft caramels create the perfect firm layer.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Use a 9×13 pan and double all ingredients.
Why did my fudge turn grainy?
It may have overheated. Melt gently over low heat and stir constantly.
Can I use dark chocolate instead of white?
Yes, but the flavor will be richer and less sweet — delicious either way.