brown sugar fudge recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
brown sugar fudge recipe
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The Best brown sugar fudge recipe

I have been making this brown sugar fudge recipe for years, and it’s a staple in our household. It’s a classic American dessert that’s easy to make and always a hit with my family.

The first time I made it, I was surprised by how simple it was to prepare, and how delicious the end result was. The key to this recipe is using high-quality ingredients, especially the brown sugar, which gives the fudge its distinctive flavor and texture.

I love that it’s a no-fuss recipe that can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to two weeks. My kids adore helping me stir the mixture and taste-testing the fudge as it cools.

We often make this for special occasions like holidays and birthdays, but it’s also a regular treat on lazy Sundays after church. The best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruit to create different flavor combinations.

My husband loves it when I add a sprinkle of sea salt on top, which adds a touch of sophistication to this otherwise old-fashioned dessert. This brown sugar fudge recipe is truly a family favorite, and I’m so glad I discovered it all those years ago.

It’s a comforting treat that never fails to put a smile on our faces.

Brown Sugar Fudge

Brown Sugar Fudge

4.6 from 1838 votes

A creamy, rich fudge made with brown sugar and butter, offering a caramel-like sweetness. This easy stovetop recipe requires no candy thermometer and sets into a smooth, sliceable treat.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time3 hours 25 mins
Servings: 16Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 180 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Fudge

2 cups packed light brown sugar
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup confectioners’ sugar, sifted

👨‍🍳Directions

1Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides for easy removal.
2Set the pan aside.
3In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, and salt.
4Stir constantly until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth, about 3 to 4 minutes.
5Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
6Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 235°F (soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer, about 10 to 12 minutes.
7If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small amount of the mixture into a glass of cold water; it should form a soft, pliable ball.
8Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for 5 minutes without stirring.
9Then add the vanilla extract and sifted confectioners’ sugar, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon until the fudge thickens and loses its shine, about 3 to 5 minutes.
10Immediately pour the fudge into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
11Let it cool at room temperature for 2 hours, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm.
12Lift the fudge from the pan using the parchment overhang and place it on a cutting board.
13Cut into 16 squares with a sharp knife and serve.
14Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
8×8-inch baking pan
Parchment paper
Sharp knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 180 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 25mg🧂Sodium: 55mg🌾Total Carbs: 28g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 27g🥩Protein: 1g

📝Notes

For best results, use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent scorching. If the fudge becomes too thick to pour, stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons of hot water to loosen it. The fudge will continue to set as it cools.

Watch Video Of How Brown Sugar Fudge Works

This brown sugar fudge recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a party or just need a sweet treat after dinner.

The best part about this recipe is that it makes such a large batch that you’ll have plenty left over for later.

Simply store any leftover fudge in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Brown Sugar Fudge

1.

What is the difference between light brown sugar and dark brown sugar?

In this recipe, we use light brown sugar because it has a milder flavor and won’t overpower the other ingredients. However, if you prefer a deeper flavor, you can use dark brown sugar instead.

2.

Can I substitute honey for the granulated sugar?

No, honey has a stronger flavor than granulated sugar and will alter the taste of the fudge. If you want to try something different, you can experiment with other sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar.

3.

How do I know if the fudge has reached the correct consistency?

The fudge should be firm when cooled but still slightly soft to the touch. If you’re unsure, you can always test it by dropping a small amount of the mixture into cold water – if it forms a clean break when removed from the water, it’s ready.

4.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to get creative with your mix-ins – some ideas include chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans work well), dried fruit (cranberries or cherries), or even candy pieces (M&M’s or chopped peanut butter cups).

5.

How do I store leftover fudge?

Cool the fudge completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months.

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