Okay, picture this: remember those amazing green caramel apple suckers from when you were a kid? That perfect mix of tart green apple candy dipped in rich, chewy caramel? Well, get ready to experience that nostalgic flavor all over again, but this time in the form of incredibly smooth, melt-in-your-mouth fudge!
This Caramel Apple Fudge recipe is seriously one of the best fall treats around. It captures that sweet-and-tart magic perfectly, and guess what? It’s surprisingly easy to make , no complicated steps or candy thermometers needed! It’s the kind of simple, satisfying fall candy that just feels like a warm hug.
Why You’ll Love This Caramel Apple Fudge
- Nostalgic Flavor: It genuinely tastes like those beloved caramel apple suckers! The secret is the apple cider drink mix, which gives it that signature tart apple kick balanced by sweet caramel swirls. It’s a truly unique caramel apple dessert.
- Super Easy Fudge: Forget fussy candy-making! This is an easy fudge recipe made with marshmallows and white chocolate chips, meaning you don’t need a candy thermometer. Even the caramel part uses the microwave!
- Perfect for Fall: The flavors scream autumn! It’s the ideal treat to make for gatherings, holidays, or just because you want a cozy taste of the season.
- Quick to Make: While it needs time to set, the actual hands-on cooking time is minimal, making it a great make-ahead dessert.
Ingredients
Ready to whip up this amazing apple cider fudge? Here’s the simple lineup of ingredients you’ll need. (Remember, the exact amounts are waiting for you in the recipe card down below!)
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth texture.
- Mini Marshmallows: These are key to the easy fudge texture! They melt down to create a soft, chewy base without needing a thermometer.
- Granulated Sugar: For sweetness, balancing the tart apple flavor.
- Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creaminess to both the fudge base and the caramel swirl.
- Apple Cider Drink Mix Packets: This is the magic ingredient! It provides that distinct tart apple flavor reminiscent of the suckers. Look for it near the hot cocoa or tea aisle.
- White Chocolate Chips: Adds sweetness, creaminess, and helps the fudge set up beautifully.
- Caramel Bits or Squares: For that essential gooey caramel swirl. Using pre-made caramels makes this part super simple, especially with the microwave fudge technique for melting.
Note: Full ingredient measurements can be found in the recipe card below.
How To Make Caramel Apple Fudge
Let’s get fudgin’! This comes together faster than you might think.
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
First things first, line an 8×8 inch baking pan with two layers of tin foil. Make sure to leave some foil hanging over the edges, this will make lifting the fudge out later a breeze!
Step 2: Make the Apple Fudge Base
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the butter, mini marshmallows, sugar, heavy cream, and those all-important apple cider drink mix packets. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring pretty often. You want everything to melt together into a smooth mixture, especially the marshmallows. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
Step 3: Melt the Caramel
While the fudge base is cooking, let’s get the caramel ready using a quick microwave fudge trick. Place your caramel bits (or unwrapped squares) and a splash of heavy cream (or caramel coffee creamer if you have it!) in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave it at 50% power in 45-second bursts, stirring after each one, until the caramel is completely melted and smooth. Set it aside for a moment.
Step 4: Add the White Chocolate
Once the marshmallow mixture is smooth, remove the pot from the heat. Immediately pour in the white chocolate chips and stir, stir, stir until they are completely melted and the fudge is smooth and glossy. Work quickly here!
Step 5: Swirl it Up!
Pour the apple fudge mixture into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Now, drizzle that luscious melted caramel all over the top. Grab a knife or a small offset spatula and gently swirl the caramel into the fudge. Don’t overmix , you want distinct swirls!
Step 6: Chill Out
Carefully place the pan in the refrigerator and let the fudge chill and set completely. This usually takes about 3 hours. Be patient , it’s worth the wait! Once firm, use the foil overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan and cut it into small squares.
Caramel Apple Fudge
Equipment
- Large Pot
- 8×8-inch Baking Pan
- Tin foil
- Microwave safe bowl
- Small metal spatula or knife
Ingredients
Apple Fudge Base
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 10 oz mini marshmallows (1 standard bag)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 packets apple cider drink mix (0.74 oz each)
- 11 oz white chocolate chips (1 standard bag)
Caramel Swirl
- 11 oz caramel bits or caramel squares (1 standard bag, squares unwrapped)
- 2 tbsp heavy cream (or caramel coffee creamer)
Instructions
- Prep Your Pan: First things first, line an 8×8 inch baking pan with two layers of tin foil. Make sure to leave some foil hanging over the edges, this will make lifting the fudge out later a breeze!
- Make the Apple Fudge Base: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the butter, mini marshmallows, sugar, heavy cream, and those all-important apple cider drink mix packets. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring pretty often. You want everything to melt together into a smooth mixture, especially the marshmallows. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
- Melt the Caramel: While the fudge base is cooking, let’s get the caramel ready using a quick microwave fudge trick. Place your caramel bits (or unwrapped squares) and a splash of heavy cream (or caramel coffee creamer if you have it!) in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave it at 50% power in 45-second bursts, stirring after each one, until the caramel is completely melted and smooth. Set it aside for a moment.
- Add the White Chocolate: Once the marshmallow mixture is smooth, remove the pot from the heat. Immediately pour in the white chocolate chips and stir, stir, stir until they are completely melted and the fudge is smooth and glossy. Work quickly here!
- Swirl it Up!: Pour the apple fudge mixture into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Now, drizzle that luscious melted caramel all over the top. Grab a knife or a small offset spatula and gently swirl the caramel into the fudge. Don't overmix , you want distinct swirls!
- Chill Out: Carefully place the pan in the refrigerator and let the fudge chill and set completely. This usually takes about 3 hours. Be patient , it's worth the wait! Once firm, use the foil overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan and cut it into small squares.
Notes
Pro Tips for Making the Caramel Apple Fudge
- Stir Constantly (Almost!): Keep a close eye on the marshmallow mixture as it cooks, stirring frequently to prevent scorching on the bottom of the pot.
- Quality Counts: Use good quality white chocolate chips for the best flavor and smoothest melt.
- No Thermometer Needed: Seriously, relax! The marshmallows ensure this fudge sets up beautifully without needing to track temperatures. It’s a fantastic fudge without a thermometer!
- Gentle Swirls: When swirling the caramel, less is more. Just a few gentle passes with the spatula create the prettiest patterns.
- Clean Cuts: For neat squares, run your knife under hot water and wipe it dry between cuts.
How to Serve
This Caramel Apple Fudge is perfect cut into small, bite-sized squares, it’s quite rich! Arrange them on a platter for a party, package them up as a lovely homemade gift, or simply enjoy a piece (or two!) with a cup of coffee or tea. It’s a standout caramel apple dessert for any fall occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
This fudge keeps beautifully, making it great for planning ahead.
Storing Leftovers
Keep the cut fudge squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for 2-3 weeks (if they last that long!). Keeping it chilled helps maintain the best texture.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze this fudge! For best results, wrap the entire uncut block of fudge tightly in two layers of plastic wrap, then place it inside a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Thawing
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen fudge, transfer the whole wrapped block to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Once thawed, unwrap and cut into squares.
FAQs : Caramel Apple Fudge
Where can I find the apple cider drink mix packets?
You can usually find them in the grocery store aisle with hot chocolate mixes, tea, and other powdered drink mixes. Look for the individual serving packets.
Do I absolutely need a candy thermometer for this recipe?
Nope! That’s the beauty of this easy fudge recipe. Using marshmallows helps it set correctly without needing to monitor temperatures, making it a great fudge without a thermometer.
Can I use caramel sauce instead of melted caramel bits/squares?
It’s best to stick with melted caramel bits or squares. Caramel sauce might be too thin and won’t create the distinct, chewy swirl we’re going for. Melting the bits is easy using the microwave fudge method described!
Can I make this in a different size pan?
You could double the recipe and use a 9×13 inch pan. The fudge layer will be a similar thickness. Just make sure to adjust the amount of foil used for lining.
This Caramel Apple Fudge truly captures that fun, nostalgic flavor in an easy-to-make treat. It’s the perfect blend of tart apple and sweet caramel, making it an irresistible fall candy. Give this easy fudge recipe a try , you’ll be amazed how simple and delicious it is! Definitely keep this recipe handy for all your autumn cravings.
