Name: Caramel Apple Fudge Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 3 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter; 3 cups (129g) mini marshmallows; 1/2 cup (99g) granulated sugar; 1/2 cup (118ml) heavy cream; 3 packets apple cider drink mix (0.74 oz each); 3 cups (510g) white chocolate chips; 1/2 cup caramel bits or caramel squares like Kraft brand; 1 1/2 Tbsp heavy cream

If you’re dreaming of the flavors of fall, look no further than Caramel Apple Fudge! This treat captures everything you love about caramel apples—sweet, tangy, and buttery—and delivers it in the form of creamy, melt-in-your-mouth fudge. Perfect for chilly afternoons, bake sales, or just because you deserve something special, this fudge instantly transports you to pumpkin patches and apple orchards. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up in your own kitchen, no candy thermometer required!

Caramel Apple Fudge Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple pantry staples come together to create this luscious Caramel Apple Fudge. Each ingredient brings something unique, whether it’s creaminess, sweetness, or that signature apple zing. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

Unsalted Butter: Adds a rich, velvety base that helps everything blend together smoothly.
Mini Marshmallows: These make the fudge extra fluffy and chewy—you don’t want to skip them!
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the entire batch just enough, balancing the tart apple notes.
Heavy Cream: Contributes seriously dreamy creaminess and helps everything melt perfectly.
Apple Cider Drink Mix: The must-have for that magical, tart apple punch—use your favorite brand.
White Chocolate Chips: The secret to ultra-silky smooth fudge with a subtle vanilla undertone.
Caramel Bits or Squares: Swirls of buttery caramel ribbon through every bite—absolutely worth it!
Extra Heavy Cream (for caramel): Makes the caramel ultra-smooth and easy to drizzle or swirl.

How to Make Caramel Apple Fudge

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Begin by lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with two layers of aluminum foil, making sure to leave some overhang on the sides. This trick isn’t just for easy cleanup—those extra foil edges help you lift your Caramel Apple Fudge right out of the pan later on. Give the foil a light spray with nonstick spray if you want to guarantee perfectly clean edges!

Step 2: Melt the Marshmallow Base

Place your butter, mini marshmallows, sugar, half a cup of heavy cream, and all three packets of apple cider drink mix into a large pot. Set it over medium heat and stir occasionally as the mixture melts together—marshmallows should become soft and gooey after about 8–10 minutes. Get ready for your kitchen to fill with the scent of caramel apples!

Step 3: Melt the Caramel

While the marshmallow mixture is working its magic, combine the caramel bits (or chopped caramel squares) and 1 1/2 tablespoons of heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat this at 50% power in 45-second intervals, stirring each time until the caramel is smooth and pourable. Set it aside, but keep it warm so it’s ready to swirl.

Step 4: Add the White Chocolate

Take your marshmallow mixture off the heat and immediately stir in all the white chocolate chips. Don’t stop stirring until every chip has melted and the mixture is velvety smooth—now it’s starting to look and smell incredible!

Step 5: Assemble and Swirl

Quickly pour your fudge base into the lined pan. Grab your warm caramel sauce and drizzle it over the top in big swoops. Take a small metal spatula or butter knife and gently swirl the caramel through the top of your Caramel Apple Fudge for that signature marbled look. Trust me, this is the best part!

Step 6: Chill and Slice

Pop the pan in the fridge for at least 3 hours to let your fudge set. When you’re ready, use the foil overhang to lift it out, peel away the foil, and slice your fudge into cute squares. I recommend keeping them chilled for the best chewy texture and lovely, defined swirls.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Fudge

Garnishes

For an extra-special presentation, sprinkle the fudge with a pinch of flaky sea salt or a little bit of cinnamon just before serving. You could even add tiny apple chips or a caramel drizzle on top for an irresistible finish that says, “eat me now!”

Side Dishes

This fudge shines on a fall dessert board alongside crisp apple slices, spiced nuts, and maybe a dollop of whipped cream. If you’re serving coffee or hot apple cider, the flavors will be perfectly matched and make for an indulgent treat everyone will rave about.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or gifts, wrap individual squares in wax paper and tie with twine, or pile pieces into mason jars decorated with rustic ribbon. Layer them on a platter with slices of fresh green apple to play up the caramel apple theme. Caramel Apple Fudge also looks adorable tucked into little bakery boxes as edible party favors or holiday gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Caramel Apple Fudge keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to one week. Store your pieces in an airtight container with sheets of parchment between layers to prevent sticking, so every square stays as fresh and delightful as the day you made it.

Freezing

If you want to make your fudge far ahead, you’re in luck! Simply wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. The fudge will keep its flavor and texture for up to two months. Thaw your pieces in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

Reheating

You typically won’t need to reheat Caramel Apple Fudge, since it’s meant to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. However, if you fancy a gooier bite, microwave an individual piece for just 5–10 seconds—but don’t overdo it!

FAQs

Can I use homemade caramel instead of caramel bits?

Absolutely! If you love making caramel from scratch, go for it. Just make sure it’s not too runny or too stiff—you want it pourable so it’ll swirl beautifully through your fudge.

What can I substitute for the apple cider drink mix?

If apple cider mix isn’t handy, try using instant apple drink powder or even a concentrated apple juice reduction. The goal is that bright apple tang, so have fun experimenting!

Is it possible to make this fudge without marshmallows?

Marshmallows are key for the fudge’s signature chewy-soft texture and easy preparation. If you need to skip them for dietary reasons, your fudge may turn out firmer and less creamy, but you can experiment with marshmallow creme as an alternative.

How do I know when the fudge is set?

When the fudge is ready, it’ll feel firm (not tacky) when you press it gently. If you wiggle the pan and it’s still jiggly in the center, give it more time in the fridge—it’s worth the wait!

Can I double the recipe for a bigger batch?

You sure can! Use a 9×13-inch pan and double all ingredient amounts. Keep an eye on the cooling time, as a thicker layer of fudge might need a little longer to set perfectly.

Final Thoughts

If you love treats that taste like childhood nostalgia and everything magical about fall, you owe it to yourself to make Caramel Apple Fudge. It’s a total crowd-pleaser that comes together surprisingly fast, and every bite bursts with cozy flavor. Give it a try and let that sweet, tangy blend transport you right into autumn bliss!