Caramel Coffee Fudge Delight

Caramel Coffee Fudge is that one treat I turn to whenever I crave something rich and indulgent with a grown-up twist. Every bite melts in your mouth with an irresistibly deep coffee essence wrapped in buttery caramel. It is impressive enough to gift, and yet so simple that you do not need to wait for a special occasion.

I made this fudge for a holiday cookie swap and people could not stop talking about it. Ever since then my coffee-loving friends beg me to bring it to game nights and birthdays.

Ingredients

• White chocolate chips: give creamy fudge body and a melt-in-your-mouth texture so choose a real chocolate with cocoa butter for best results
• Sweetened condensed milk: adds the perfect sweetness and helps the fudge firm up choose a can that is fresh and not caramelized
• Butter: brings richness and helps blend everything into a silky base use unsalted so you can control the saltiness
• Instant espresso powder: is the secret for a bold coffee punch use your favorite brand and make sure it smells deeply aromatic
• Vanilla extract: adds warmth and depth I like pure vanilla for a natural flavor
• Caramel sauce: swirled in for that buttery sweet touch pick one that is smooth and pourable for clean swirls
• Sea salt: gives the perfect finish bringing out the caramel and coffee layers flake salt works beautifully

Step-by-Step Instructions

Melt the White Chocolate and Butter:

In a small saucepan over low heat gently stir the white chocolate chips and butter until they are silky smooth with no lumps. Keep the heat very low and do not rush this step as chocolate can burn easily.

Blend in Condensed Milk and Espresso:

Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and sprinkle in the instant espresso powder. Stir slowly and watch the color turn rich and mocha as the espresso dissolves. Cook for just a minute or two until the mixture is completely combined and glossy.

Add Vanilla and Sea Salt:

Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt. Mix thoroughly so every ounce of fudge is infused with flavor.

Pour into Pan and Swirl in Caramel:

Line an eight-inch square pan with parchment so it lifts cleanly later. Pour your fudge mixture in and smooth it out. Drizzle the caramel sauce on top and use a butter knife or toothpick to create deep swirls so each piece gets a buttery caramel ribbon.

Chill Until Firm:

Place the pan in the fridge and let it set undisturbed for at least three to four hours or longer if you can wait. The fudge should be cool and very firm when touched in the center.

Slice and Serve:

Once the fudge is completely chilled lift it out with the parchment paper. Use a sharp knife to cut into neat squares wiping the blade between cuts for clean edges.

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I always look forward to swirling in the caramel because it reminds me of making marbled brownies with my mom we would compete for the prettiest swirl and then sneak a spoonful before the treats went into the fridge.

Storage Tips

After cutting the fudge store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and creamy all week long. If making ahead for a party you can freeze the fudge and simply let it thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. Separate layers with parchment to avoid sticking.

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Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a less sweet fudge swap half the white chocolate chips for semisweet. No espresso powder No problem Use instant coffee granules but make them extra fine for best blending. For the caramel choose any pourable store bought sauce or even a homemade batch if you have time.

Serving Suggestions

Pile squares on a pretty platter alongside chocolate dipped fruit for a dessert board. I love chopping the fudge and mixing it into homemade ice cream or as a bold topping for pancakes at brunch. A piece of this fudge is especially perfect with an afternoon espresso or glass of cold milk.

Cultural and Historical Context

Fudge has classic American roots but this version adds a modern grown up flavor with the coffee caramel twist. Espresso and caramel are beloved in European cafe culture too making this a crowd pleaser no matter the setting. Everyone from grandparents to teenagers goes for seconds whenever I bring it out.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I enhance the coffee flavor?

For a stronger coffee taste, add an extra teaspoon of instant espresso powder during mixing.

→ What type of chocolate yields the creamiest results?

High-quality white chocolate chips ensure a smooth, rich texture in every bite.

→ How should I store the fudge?

Keep the fudge in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.

→ Is sea salt necessary in this fudge?

Yes, a pinch of sea salt enhances both caramel and coffee notes, balancing sweetness perfectly.

→ How do I achieve a perfect caramel swirl?

After pouring the mixture into the pan, drizzle caramel on top and gently swirl with a toothpick or knife.