Welcome to a delightful twist on a classic treat — Creamy Chocolate Maple Fudge. This recipe combines the rich, deep flavors of chocolate with the earthy sweetness of maple syrup. It’s a perfect indulgence for any season, bringing warmth and comfort in every bite.
Granulated sugar provides the necessary sweetness and structure for the fudge. Heavy cream contributes to the creamy texture, ensuring each bite is smooth and rich. Unsalted butter adds flavor and helps achieve the perfect consistency. Pure maple syrup is the star ingredient, infusing the fudge with its unique, natural sweetness. Semisweet chocolate chips deliver the deep chocolatey taste we crave. Vanilla extract enhances all the flavors, adding a warm, inviting aroma. Finally, a pinch of salt rounds everything out, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
This fudge pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a festive touch, sprinkle some crushed nuts or sea salt flakes on top before setting. It's also a lovely addition to a dessert platter, bringing variety and a touch of homemade charm.
Start by preparing your pan: line an 8x8 inch pan with parchment paper. This step is crucial because it makes removing the fudge a breeze once it's set. Now, grab a medium-sized saucepan and combine the granulated sugar, heavy cream, unsalted butter, and maple syrup. These ingredients are your base, and they need to be mixed well.
Place the saucepan over medium heat. You’ll want to stir constantly, ensuring nothing sticks to the bottom. Keep an eye on the mixture as it heats up. Once it reaches 234°F on a candy thermometer, you’re ready for the next step. This temperature is known as the soft-ball stage, crucial for achieving the right fudge texture.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in the semisweet chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and salt. Keep stirring until the chocolate chips have melted completely and the mixture is smooth and glossy. Pour this luscious mixture into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
The hardest part? Letting it cool. Set it aside at room temperature for about 2 hours. Patience is key here! Once the fudge is firm to the touch, you can lift it out using the parchment paper and cut it into squares. Now, it’s time to enjoy!
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