Carrot Fudge
A delightful carrot fudge blending sweet, creamy, and earthy flavors, perfect for those who enjoy rich confections with a touch of natural sweetness. Ideal for snacking or gifting.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook grated carrots, sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and water to soft ball stage (234° to 238°).
- Remove from heat; add lemon flavoring and cool to room temperature.
- Beat until creamy.
- Pour into a buttered pan; pat down to 1-inch depth.
- When firm, cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect soft ball stage, use a candy thermometer for accuracy. If you don't have lemon flavoring, try substituting with a splash of vanilla extract for a different twist. Ensure the pan is well-buttered to prevent sticking. Be patient while beating the mixture; this step is crucial for achieving a creamy texture. Consider adding nuts for added crunch or flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the carrot fudge into bite-sized squares for easy serving. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it an excellent accompaniment to afternoon snacks or dessert platters. For a festive touch, serve alongside Ellen Bryan's Swedish Tea Ring during holidays or special gatherings. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover carrot fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply let it come to room temperature or microwave it for a few seconds until slightly warm. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carrot Fudge contains roughly 392 calories, with 10g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (122% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 fresh carrots instead of packaged grated carrots?
Absolutely! Freshly grated carrots will give your fudge a more vibrant flavor. Just ensure they're finely grated to achieve the right texture. If the carrots seem too moist, you can lightly pat them dry with a paper towel before using them in the recipe.
How do I know when the fudge has reached the soft ball stage?
The soft ball stage is reached when the mixture temperature is between 234° and 238°F. You can test it by dropping a small amount of the mixture into cold water; if it forms a soft ball that holds its shape but can be flattened, it's ready. A candy thermometer is the most reliable way to monitor the temperature.
Can I add other flavors or ingredients to the carrot fudge?
Yes! Feel free to experiment by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth, or mix in some chopped nuts for added texture. Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can also complement the sweetness of the fudge. Just keep in mind that adding too much moisture may alter the consistency.
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).