Get ready for a treat that captures the essence of fall in every bite! This Caramel Apple Fudge is a delightful no-bake confection, featuring a beautiful swirl of rich caramel and vibrant green apple-flavored fudge. It’s incredibly easy to make, requires no special candy-making skills, and delivers a sweet, chewy, and irresistibly festive dessert that’s perfect for holidays, parties, or satisfying your sweet tooth.
Why I Love This Recipe
This Caramel Apple Fudge is pure magic, and I absolutely adore it for its simplicity and stunning visual appeal! What I love most is how effortlessly it brings together the classic flavors of caramel and green apple in a wonderfully chewy fudge. The use of candy melts and sweetened condensed milk makes the process incredibly foolproof, eliminating the need for thermometers or complicated steps. The vibrant green and golden caramel swirls are so pretty, making it look much more intricate than it is. It’s a fantastic recipe for gifting, party platters, or just a fun, seasonal treat that always gets rave reviews.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Caramel Apple Fudge:
- 16 ounces Salted Caramel Candy Melts (about 2 cups)
- 16 ounces Vibrant Green Candy Melts (about 2 cups)
- 2 (14-ounce) cans Sweetened Condensed Milk (each can is about 1 ¾ cups)
- 1 ½ teaspoons Green Apple Candy Flavoring (or extract)
Swaps and Notes
- Candy Melts: Using candy melts (also known as candy wafers or melting wafers) is crucial for the “easy fudge” method as they melt smoothly and set firmly. Different brands may have slightly different melting properties.
- Salted Caramel Candy Melts: These provide the caramel flavor. If you can only find regular caramel candy melts, add a tiny pinch of sea salt to that mixture.
- Vibrant Green Candy Melts: The green color is key for the “apple” appearance.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Essential for the fudge’s creamy texture and sweetness. Do not substitute with evaporated milk.
- Green Apple Candy Flavoring: This adds the distinct apple flavor. Look for candy oils or extracts designed for candy making, as they are more concentrated than baking extracts. Adjust amount to taste; a little goes a long way.
- Parchment Paper: Essential for easy removal of the fudge from the pan.
Instructions
Let’s get this delicious Caramel Apple Fudge made and chilled!
- Prepare Pan: Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides. This overhang will act as “handles” to easily lift the fudge out once set. Set the prepared pan aside.
- Separate Melts & Condensed Milk: Place the 16 ounces (2 cups) Salted Caramel Candy Melts in a medium mixing bowl. In another separate medium mixing bowl, place the 16 ounces (2 cups) Vibrant Green Candy Melts.
- Add Condensed Milk to Caramel: Pour one can of sweetened condensed milk (about 1 ¾ cups) over the caramel melts in their bowl.
- Flavor Green Mixture: Mix the 1 ½ teaspoons Green Apple Candy Flavoring with the second can of sweetened condensed milk, then pour this flavored condensed milk over the green candy melts in their bowl.
- Microwave & Stir Both: Place both bowls (one at a time, or simultaneously if your microwave allows and you have space) in the microwave. Microwave each bowl for 2 ½ minutes total, stirring well every minute, until the candy melts are completely smooth and melted. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, which can cause it to seize. A double boiler method can also be used.
- Swirl Fudge: Alternately pour spoonfuls of the caramel mixture and the green apple mixture into the prepared 8×8 inch pan. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the two colors together to create a marbled effect. Don’t over-swirl, or the colors will blend too much.
- Refrigerate & Set: Refrigerate the fudge, uncovered, for at least 4 hours, or until it is completely set and firm.
- Cut & Enjoy: Once firm, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and cut into small squares or desired pieces. Enjoy your homemade Caramel Apple Fudge!
Tips for Success
- Use Good Quality Candy Melts: Brands can vary. Wilton or Ghirardelli candy melts are generally reliable for smooth melting and setting.
- Don’t Overheat: Overheating chocolate in the microwave can cause it to seize. Stirring frequently at short intervals is key.
- Green Apple Flavoring: Use candy flavoring or oil, not baking extract, for a more intense and true apple taste. Adjust to your preference.
- Work Quickly: Once the candy melts are melted, the mixtures will start to set fairly quickly, especially the green apple one due to the flavoring. Pour and swirl immediately.
- Chill Time is Crucial: Allow the full 4 hours (or more) for the fudge to set completely firm in the refrigerator.
- Clean Cuts: For neat squares, use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This Caramel Apple Fudge is a fantastic standalone sweet treat, perfect for:
- Holiday Dessert Platters: Adds a festive touch and color.
- Edible Gifts: Package in decorative boxes or bags for a thoughtful homemade present.
- Fall Celebrations: A unique dessert for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or apple-picking parties.
- Coffee or Hot Chocolate: A delightful accompaniment to warm beverages.
- For other delightful caramel-infused treats, consider our These Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Are My Favorite Fall Treat In Bite-Sized Form or These Caramel Apple Nachos Are My Favorite Quick Fall Dessert Trick.
Storage and Leftover Tips
This fudge stores well, maintaining its soft, chewy texture.
- Room Temperature: Store cooled Caramel Apple Fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If your home is very warm, refrigeration may be necessary.
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The fudge may become slightly firmer when chilled, but it will soften at room temperature.
- Freezing: Fudge freezes well. Once completely set, cut into pieces and store in a freezer-safe airtight container or bag, separated by parchment paper, for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
More Recipes You Will Love
If you loved the sweet, indulgent, and easy nature of this no-bake fudge, you’ll definitely want to explore some of our other fantastic, fuss-free dessert and snack recipes:
- For another incredibly indulgent chocolate treat, try our These Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs Are My Favorite Sweet Obsession.
- If you’re a brownie enthusiast, you can’t go wrong with The Best Peanut Butter Brownies I’ve Ever Made (And I’ve Made A Lot).
- For a sweet treat you can enjoy without baking, our This Edible Cookie Dough Is My Favorite No-Bake Treat For Late Night Cravings is perfect.
- And for another delightful fall treat in cookie form, try These Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Are My Favorite Fall Treat In Bite-Sized Form.
Final Thoughts
This Caramel Apple Fudge recipe is a brilliant way to bring a truly festive, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying no-bake dessert to your table with ease. It’s perfect for fall, promising a delightful combination of sweet caramel and tart apple in every chewy bite!
Give this recipe a try and let this delicious fudge become a new holiday favorite! What’s your go-to no-bake candy recipe? Share your ideas and feedback in the comments below!
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