Maple Cream Fudge
Decadent Maple Cream Fudge combines the rich creaminess of cream cheese with the sweet, caramel-like flavor of maple, complemented by crunchy walnuts. Perfect for holiday treats or gifting, this fudge offers a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture with a delightful nutty crunch, appealing to both fudge lovers and maple enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the cream cheese until smooth.
- Slowly blend in the powdered sugar, maple flavoring, and chopped walnuts.
- Mix until well blended (using hands if necessary).
- Press the mixture into a well-greased 8 x 8-inch pan.
- Chill until the fudge is firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother consistency, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If you don't have maple flavoring, pure maple syrup can be used, but adjust the powdered sugar to maintain the right texture. Chopped pecans can be substituted for walnuts for a different nutty flavor. For a richer taste, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to enhance the sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the fudge into small squares for serving, and consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in textures. It also pairs beautifully with Amber Crunch Sundae for a festive dessert platter. Serve alongside coffee or tea to balance the sweetness, making it a perfect treat for gatherings or as a sweet snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Maple Cream Fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To keep it fresh longer, you can also freeze the fudge wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, where it can last for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maple Cream Fudge contains roughly 2140 calories, with 50g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 213g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (100% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (72% of the Daily Value), and iron (52% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 20g 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 a different type of nut in this recipe?
Yes, you can easily substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts based on your preference. Just ensure they are chopped into small pieces for even distribution throughout the fudge.
Is it necessary to chill the fudge?
Chilling the fudge is essential as it helps it set properly and firm up. If you skip this step, the fudge may remain too soft and difficult to cut into neat squares.
Can I make this fudge vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and ensure the powdered sugar is vegan-friendly. Additionally, you can use maple syrup instead of maple flavoring for an authentic taste.
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).