Dreamy Maple Walnut Fantasy Fudge is a delightful blend of creamy, nutty goodness with a sweet hint of maple. Perfect for a cozy evening or as a gift for someone special, this fudge is as easy to make as it is irresistible.
Granulated sugar forms the backbone of our fudge, providing that essential sweetness and structure. Unsalted butter adds richness and smoothness, making each bite melt in your mouth. We use evaporated milk for its creamy texture and concentrated flavor, which helps the fudge set perfectly. White chocolate chips add an extra layer of sweetness and creaminess. The marshmallow creme is what gives our fudge its soft, chewy texture. Vanilla extract enhances all the flavors, while maple extract brings that distinct autumnal taste. Finally, walnuts add a delightful crunch and nutty depth.
This fudge pairs wonderfully with a light herbal tea, which offsets its sweetness nicely. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside a cheese platter with mild cheese varieties, or enjoy it as a standalone treat during a cozy movie night.
First, prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lining it with aluminum foil and lightly buttering the foil. This will make removing the fudge a breeze. In a large saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, and evaporated milk. Stir constantly over medium heat until the mixture comes to a rolling boil. This is crucial to avoid any scorching.
Once boiling, let it cook for about 4 minutes, stirring all the while. This step is key to achieving the right consistency. After 4 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in the white chocolate chips, marshmallow creme, vanilla extract, and maple extract. Keep stirring until everything is nicely combined and smooth.
Now, fold in the chopped walnuts. The nuts should be evenly distributed throughout the fudge mixture. Pour the mixture into your prepared dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Let it cool at room temperature until set, which usually takes a few hours. Once the fudge has set, cut it into squares and enjoy!