If you’re craving something sweet, creamy, and just a little bit nutty, you’re going to love this Maple Walnut White Chocolate Fudge Recipe. It’s one of those treats I keep coming back to because it’s not only super easy to make but also so incredibly delicious with that perfect balance of rich white chocolate, buttery walnuts, and a hint of warm maple flavor. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find it hard to stop at just one piece!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: You only need a handful of pantry staples to whip this up—no fancy stuff required.
- Quick Prep Time: From start to finish, this fudge takes just minutes to put together and chill.
- Perfect Texture: Creamy, smooth white chocolate fudge with just the right crunch from toasted walnuts.
- Versatile Flavor: The maple extract adds a unique twist that makes this fudge taste extra special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Maple Walnut White Chocolate Fudge Recipe plays a key role in creating that perfect balance of flavor and texture. I always recommend using good-quality white chocolate chips for the creamiest results and fresh walnuts for crunch and nuttiness.
- White Chocolate Chips: Look for good-quality chips with real cocoa butter for smooth melting and rich flavor.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This adds sweetness and helps the fudge set without needing complicated candy thermometers.
- Maple Extract: Just a small amount boosts the flavor, giving the fudge that cozy maple vibe without overpowering it.
- Salt: A pinch balances the sweetness and brings out all the flavors beautifully.
- Walnuts (Coarsely Chopped): I like toasting mine lightly beforehand for extra depth, but that’s totally optional.
Variations
I love how adaptable this Maple Walnut White Chocolate Fudge Recipe is—feel free to make it your own! Over time, I’ve played around with different nuts and flavor add-ins, and each version has its own charm.
- Nut Swaps: Pistachios or pecans also work great if you want to mix up the texture and flavor.
- Extract Variations: Try adding a splash of vanilla or almond extract alongside or instead of maple for a fun twist.
- Chocolate Mix-Ins: A handful of dried cranberries or even mini white chocolate chips can add extra texture surprises.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free white chocolate chips and a coconut condensed milk alternative to make it vegan-friendly.
How to Make Maple Walnut White Chocolate Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Start by lining an 8 or 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or non-stick foil—that way, you’ll be able to lift the fudge out easily after it sets. Give it a light grease so the parchment sticks but the fudge doesn’t.
Step 2: Melt the White Chocolate and Sweetened Condensed Milk
Pop the white chocolate chips and the entire can of sweetened condensed milk into a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave it at about 70% power for 90 seconds. I often stop halfway to stir—this helps it melt evenly without burning. Use the residual heat to fully melt the chocolate and stir until silky and smooth. If you find chunks stubbornly hanging on, microwave for an additional 15-second burst. Pro tip: If you prefer, melt everything gently in a double boiler on the stove—you’ll get the same creamy results without the microwave.
Step 3: Add Flavor and Nuts
Now, stir in the maple extract and a pinch of salt. This is the magic combo that wakes up the sweet white chocolate with warm maple goodness and balances it all out. Gently fold in your coarsely chopped walnuts. If you haven’t toasted them yet, try it next time for a deeper flavor punch!
Step 4: Chill and Cut
Pour your fudge mixture into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. This is where patience pays off—the fudge needs to chill in the fridge for several hours, or until it’s fully set and firm to the touch. Once chilled, lift the parchment to remove the block, then cut into cute little squares to share (or keep all to yourself like I sometimes do!).
Pro Tips for Making Maple Walnut White Chocolate Fudge Recipe
- Microwave Power Control: Using 70% power helps prevent scorching the white chocolate; don’t rush this step for smooth fudge.
- Use Fresh Walnuts: Fresh or toasted walnuts add that perfect crunch and avoid any bitterness from old nuts.
- Maple Extract Balance: Start with 1 ½ teaspoons, but feel free to adjust for more maple punch—it’s your fudge after all!
- Chill Time Patience: Don’t rush the setting process—chilling properly ensures clean cuts and a creamy texture.
How to Serve Maple Walnut White Chocolate Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
I usually keep it simple with a few whole walnuts sprinkled on top just before chilling—it adds a beautiful rustic look and a little extra crunch. Sometimes, I dust a pinch of flaky sea salt over the squares to bring out all the sweetness and maple notes even more.
Side Dishes
Pairing this fudge with a warm cup of coffee or chai tea turns it into the perfect afternoon pick-me-up. I’ve also served it alongside a fruit platter or soft cheeses at holiday parties for a nice contrast of textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I like to cut the fudge into bite-sized cubes and stack them in pretty glass jars tied with ribbon—makes a lovely gift! You can also sprinkle some crushed candied pecans or a drizzle of dark chocolate on top for that fancy touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I keep leftover fudge stored in an airtight container in the fridge, layering parchment paper between the fudge squares to keep them from sticking. It stays fresh and creamy for up to two weeks—if it lasts that long around here!
Freezing
I have frozen this fudge successfully by wrapping squares individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When you want a sweet fix, just thaw them overnight in the fridge. The texture stays pretty close to fresh without any noticeable changes.
Reheating
If your fudge gets a little too firm from chilling or freezing, let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before serving—it softens wonderfully. Avoid microwaving fudge to reheat as it can get grainy or melt unevenly.
FAQs
-
Can I use real maple syrup instead of maple extract in this fudge?
Great question! While you can try using real maple syrup, it adds extra liquid which might affect the fudge’s texture and setting time. Maple extract gives you the flavor punch without altering consistency. If you do use syrup, reduce other liquids carefully and expect a softer fudge.
-
What’s the best way to chop the walnuts for this recipe?
I find that chopping walnuts coarsely gives the fudge delightful texture contrasts. You want pieces big enough to crunch but small enough that they’re evenly distributed. Toasting them lightly beforehand really brings out their aroma and flavor, but skip if you prefer a milder nut taste.
-
Can I make this fudge without a microwave?
Absolutely! Use a double boiler or place your mixing bowl over a pan of simmering water to gently melt the white chocolate and condensed milk. Stir constantly to prevent scorching, and carry on with the recipe as usual.
-
How long does this fudge last?
Stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge, this fudge stays fresh for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze it in individual portions wrapped tightly to enjoy later without losing quality.
-
Can I substitute walnuts with other nuts?
Yes! Pecans, almonds, or pistachios all work beautifully and offer a unique flavor twist. Just keep the chopping size similar for even texture and follow the recipe as usual.
Final Thoughts
This Maple Walnut White Chocolate Fudge Recipe holds a special spot in my heart (and on my snack shelf!). It’s quick, fuss-free, and always a crowd-pleaser that feels like a little homemade luxury. Whether you’re making it for holiday treats, gifts, or just because, you’ll enjoy every creamy, nutty bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and find yourself reaching for seconds—maybe even thirds. Give it a go and share the love!
Print
Maple Walnut White Chocolate Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 25 pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwaving
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Maple Walnut Fudge is a creamy, sweet treat combining smooth white chocolate, rich sweetened condensed milk, fragrant maple extract, and crunchy walnuts. Easy to prepare using either microwave or stovetop methods, this decadent fudge is perfect for holiday gifting or indulgent snacking.
Ingredients
Fudge Ingredients
- 2 2/3 cups white chocolate chips (16 ounces)
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 ounces)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons maple extract
- pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups coarsely chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8 or 9-inch square baking pan with lightly greased parchment paper or non-stick foil to prevent sticking.
- Melt Chocolate and Milk: Place the white chocolate chips and the can of sweetened condensed milk in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 90 seconds at 70% power. Stir well using the residual heat until chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth. If necessary, microwave in additional 15-second intervals until fully melted.
- Alternative Stovetop Method: If preferred, melt the chocolate and milk using a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water. Stir until smooth and fully combined.
- Add Flavor and Nuts: Stir in the maple extract and a pinch of salt. Fold in the coarsely chopped walnuts thoroughly to evenly distribute them in the fudge mixture.
- Set the Fudge: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
- Chill: Refrigerate the fudge for several hours until it is well set and firm enough to cut.
- Serve: Remove from the pan, cut into approximately 25 squares, and enjoy.
Notes
- This flavorful maple walnut fudge is simple to make using either a microwave or stovetop method to fit your kitchen preferences.
- Be careful not to overheat the chocolate in the microwave; stir often for a smooth consistency.
- The walnuts add a delightful crunch and pair perfectly with the sweet maple flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 195 kcal
- Sugar: 21 g
- Sodium: 35 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg