Caramel Nut Fruit Fudge
Caramel Nut Fruit Fudge offers a delightful combination of rich caramel flavor, chewy raisins, toasted pecans, and sweet maraschino cherries, all blended into a creamy, sweet treat. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a decadent snack, it appeals to those with a sweet tooth and a love for textured confections.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, measure light brown sugar, margarine, and evaporated milk.
- Bring to boiling point.
- Let boil 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat; add vanilla and 1 cup of confectioners sugar.
- Beat until smooth and then add cherries, coconut, pecans, and raisins.
- Pour into a greased pan and let cool until hardened.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash more evaporated milk while cooking. Substitute chopped walnuts or almonds for pecans if desired. To enhance the flavor, use a touch of sea salt or espresso powder. Ensure to stir constantly while boiling to prevent burning, as this can affect the fudge's consistency. For a unique twist, try incorporating dried apricots or cranberries in place of raisins.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the fudge into bite-sized squares for easy serving and enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea. It pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of Easy Caramel Sauce for drizzling. For a delightful dessert platter, serve alongside Chocolate-Cream Drop Cookies or Ginger Cream Cookies to offer a variety of textures and flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate the fudge, which can extend its freshness for up to two weeks. If you prefer to enjoy it warm, pop individual squares in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften slightly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caramel Nut Fruit Fudge contains roughly 799 calories, with 4g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is a good source of iron (19% of the Daily Value), calcium (17% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 557mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular sugar instead of brown sugar?
Yes, you can use granulated sugar, but the fudge will be less rich and may lack the deep caramel flavor that brown sugar provides. For a similar taste, consider adding a tablespoon of molasses to the granulated sugar.
How do I know when the fudge is done cooking?
The fudge is ready when it reaches a soft ball stage, which you can test by dropping a small amount into cold water. If it forms a soft ball that holds its shape, it's done. Keep an eye on the boiling time to avoid overcooking.
Can I freeze the fudge?
Yes, you can freeze the fudge! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).