Name: Caramel Apple Fudge Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups white chocolate chips; 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk; 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant apple pie pudding mix; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup caramel sauce; Coarse sea salt for sprinkling (optional)

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If you’re looking for the ultimate fall-inspired treat that will wow family, friends, and your own taste buds, Caramel Apple Fudge is about to become your new go-to recipe! This irresistible dessert pairs the nostalgic flavors of a caramel-dipped apple with the creamy decadence of homemade fudge, all layered together in bite-sized squares. Imagine velvety white chocolate, a hint of cinnamon, sweet apple undertones, and ribbons of gooey caramel, crowned with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Every square is pure magic—perfect for holiday gatherings, gifting, or just because you deserve something special.

Caramel Apple Fudge Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Caramel Apple Fudge comes together with a handful of easy-to-find ingredients, each playing a crucial role in crafting that dreamy, melt-in-your-mouth bite. It’s amazing how just a few pantry staples can unite to deliver such comfort, flavor, and festive appeal!

White chocolate chips: Bring fudge its creamy base and snowy color—don’t substitute with milk or dark, or you’ll lose that signature apple-pie look and taste!
Sweetened condensed milk: Adds richness and helps meld everything into smooth, sliceable squares.
Instant apple pie pudding mix: The secret weapon for that authentic apple-pie flavor—skip the guesswork of spices and enjoy the built-in fruitiness.
Ground cinnamon: Rounds out the flavor with a hint of warm spice, making every bite a little cozier.
Vanilla extract: Enhances every note, letting the apple and caramel really shine.
Caramel sauce: Creates glorious buttery ribbons and marbled swirls; choose a thick sauce for maximum wow-factor.
Coarse sea salt (optional): Delivers a pop of flavor and balances the sweetness, for those who love a sweet-salty finish.

How to Make Caramel Apple Fudge

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This little trick makes it so much easier to lift out your finished fudge for perfect slicing later. Trust me, you don’t want to be chiseling fudge from the corners when you could be enjoying smooth, mess-free squares!

Step 2: Melt the Base

In a medium saucepan set over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir gently and continuously—as soon as those chips melt into silky smoothness with no lumps in sight, you’re ready for the next step. Keeping the heat low prevents any scorching or seizing, so be patient and let that rich mixture do its decadent thing.

Step 3: Add Flavorings

Once melted, remove the saucepan from the heat. Quickly stir in the instant apple pie pudding mix, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Work swiftly here; the pudding mix thickens the fudge fast. Your kitchen will smell like the coziest bakery as the spices and apple aroma mingle with the creamy chocolate base!

Step 4: Layer and Marble

Pour half of the fudge mixture into your prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it into an even layer. Drizzle half the caramel sauce across the surface in swooping lines or dots. Repeat with the remaining fudge and caramel, then take a table knife and lightly swirl through the top—just enough to create that beautiful marbled effect, but not so much that you lose those gorgeous streaks.

Step 5: Chill and Slice

Refrigerate your Caramel Apple Fudge for at least 3 hours, until it’s completely firm to the touch. Once set, use the parchment to lift it out onto a cutting board, then slice into small squares. For an extra-special finish, sprinkle each piece with a little coarse sea salt just before serving.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Fudge

Garnishes

For that dreamy bakery-style presentation, scatter coarse sea salt over the fudge just before serving. A drizzle of extra caramel sauce or even a dusting of ground cinnamon on the platter adds a professional, mouthwatering touch that’s impossible to resist.

Side Dishes

Caramel Apple Fudge pairs wonderfully with crisp apple slices—just the thing for a fall dessert board! For gatherings, surround your fudge squares with roasted nuts, mini pretzels, or fresh berries, creating a mix of flavors and textures that keeps everyone reaching for more.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re gifting or entertaining, nestle the fudge squares in decorative mini cupcake liners or arrange them on a tiered dessert tray. For extra flair, wrap individual pieces in wax paper and tie with festive ribbon, or stack several squares in a mason jar for an adorable homemade gift.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Caramel Apple Fudge will stay fresh for up to a week if stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Be sure to place parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking and preserve those pretty swirls.

Freezing

Fudge is surprisingly freezer-friendly! Stack the squares with parchment between each layer, seal tightly in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to three months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving—no one will ever know you made it ahead.

Reheating

This fudge is meant to be served chilled or at room temperature, so there’s really no need to reheat. If the caramel is a little firmer from the fridge, allow the fudge to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes to gently soften before enjoying.

FAQs

Can I use homemade caramel sauce instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Homemade caramel sauce will make your Caramel Apple Fudge even richer and more decadent. Just make sure it’s thick enough to swirl without running everywhere.

What if I can’t find apple pie pudding mix?

If instant apple pie pudding mix isn’t available, try using instant vanilla pudding mix plus a big pinch of apple pie spice and a handful of chopped dried apples for that iconic apple flavor.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely—just use a 9×13-inch pan and double all the ingredients. The fudge will set just as nicely, and you’ll have plenty to go around at your next party or family event.

Is Caramel Apple Fudge gluten-free?

The main ingredients are gluten-free, but always check the labels on your specific pudding mix and caramel sauce to be 100% sure, as brands can vary.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or dried apple bits add a lovely crunch and a little extra autumnal flair to your Caramel Apple Fudge. Mix them in with the fudge before layering for the best effect.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to experience how easy, fun, and delightful Caramel Apple Fudge is to make and share. With its creamy texture, lush caramel ribbons, and that unmistakable apple-cinnamon warmth, this treat truly brings the best of fall into every bite. Gather your ingredients, invite a friend, and create a sweet memory—this fudge is happiness in a square!

Caramel Apple Fudge Recipe

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4.7 from 20 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: 36 small squares 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of fall with this easy-to-make caramel apple fudge. Creamy white chocolate combined with apple pie pudding mix and a drizzle of caramel creates a decadent treat perfect for the season.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Fudge:

3 cups white chocolate chips
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
1 package (3.4 ounces) instant apple pie pudding mix
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Topping:

1/2 cup caramel sauce
Coarse sea salt for sprinkling (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Melt Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk, stirring continuously until smooth.
Add Flavorings: Remove from heat and quickly stir in the pudding mix, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Layer the Fudge: Pour half of the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spread evenly, and drizzle half of the caramel sauce over it. Repeat with the remaining fudge and caramel, swirling lightly with a knife.
Chill: Refrigerate for at least 3 hours until firm.
Serve: Lift the fudge from the pan, cut into squares, and sprinkle with sea salt if desired.