Quick Caramel Coffee Fudge is that magical treat you whip up when you’re craving something rich, creamy, and just a little bit sophisticated. This fudge marries smooth caramel sweetness with a subtle coffee kick, resulting in bite-sized pieces of pure delight. It’s quick to prepare, almost impossible to mess up, and is sure to wow everyone, whether you’re serving it at a party or sneaking a piece with your afternoon espresso. You’ll fall in love with how the complex flavors melt together in every mouthful and how beautifully they set up for gifting or snacking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for Quick Caramel Coffee Fudge is refreshingly straightforward—each component is there for a reason, working together to create irresistible texture, irresistible flavor, and that perfect snap when you bite in. Your pantry likely already holds most of what you need, and just a few additions will transform everything.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Delivers the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth base for the fudge and keeps it wonderfully soft.
- White chocolate chips: These melt easily, adding a silky rich body that lets the other flavors shine.
- Coffee granules (instant coffee): A little hits the spot—brightening up the fudge and giving that balanced, aromatic boost.
- Caramel sauce: Swirls of luscious caramel create dreamy ribbons and add depth to the flavor profile.
- Butter: Just a touch folds in extra richness and helps the fudge set smoothly.
- Salt: A tiny pinch makes every bite pop and rounds off those sweet and bold notes.
- Vanilla extract: This brings warmth and ties all the flavors together seamlessly.
How to Make Quick Caramel Coffee Fudge
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides. This simple prep step makes it much easier to lift out and cut the fudge after it sets. A quick spritz of nonstick spray on the paper can help the fudge release effortlessly.
Step 2: Melt and Mix
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over low heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, white chocolate chips, butter, and instant coffee granules. Stir often, letting everything melt together slowly. Keep the heat gentle so the chocolate doesn’t scorch—this is key for achieving that signature creamy texture for Quick Caramel Coffee Fudge.
Step 3: Add Caramel and Flavorings
Once your mixture is smooth and glossy, remove it from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and gently swirl in the caramel sauce. You can either fold it in for uniform flavor or marble it for gorgeous golden streaks.
Step 4: Set and Chill
Pour the fudge mixture evenly into your prepared pan. Give it a little shake or tap to level everything out. Pop the pan into the fridge and chill for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is firm and easy to cut into neat squares.
Step 5: Slice and Enjoy
Lift the chilled block out of the pan using the parchment handles. Use a sharp knife (wipe it clean between cuts for perfect edges) to slice your Quick Caramel Coffee Fudge into bite-sized squares. The aroma alone will have you reaching for a piece before you’re finished.
How to Serve Quick Caramel Coffee Fudge
Garnishes
Garnishing elevates both the look and the taste of this treat. Try a scatter of flaky sea salt, a delicate drizzle of extra caramel sauce on top, or even a few espresso powder sprinkles for dramatic flair. Each garnish brings out a new nuance in the fudge’s flavors.
Side Dishes
Quick Caramel Coffee Fudge shines beside a simple cup of espresso or strong coffee, creating a harmonious pairing. For a sophisticated dessert platter, serve it with fresh berries or nutty biscotti. The fudge’s richness really stands out when shared alongside lighter fare.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can turn this fudge into a stunning gift or centerpiece. Arrange the squares in rustic parchment-lined tin boxes, skewer them onto lollipop sticks for party treats, or create a layered dessert jar with crushed cookies. However you serve it, Quick Caramel Coffee Fudge always steals the show.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover fudge in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to one week—though chances are, you’ll find it disappearing quickly as family and friends sneak pieces!
Freezing
Quick Caramel Coffee Fudge freezes beautifully. Layer squares between sheets of parchment paper, seal tightly in a freezer bag or container, and freeze for up to two months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight whenever the craving hits.
Reheating
No reheating is required for fudge! But if you’d like a slightly softer texture or want to use the fudge as a decadent topping, a few seconds in the microwave will do the trick—just be careful not to overdo it, or the caramel can melt too much.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of white chocolate?
You can swap in milk chocolate for a different flavor, but it will change both the taste and the color of your fudge. White chocolate allows the coffee and caramel to stand out, while milk chocolate brings a richer, more classic chocolate touch.
How strong is the coffee flavor?
The coffee flavor in Quick Caramel Coffee Fudge is pleasantly present but not overpowering. If you’re a true coffee lover, feel free to adjust the amount of instant coffee granules to your taste.
What’s the best way to cut the fudge cleanly?
A sharp knife and a little patience are your best friends here. Wipe the blade clean between cuts and use gentle pressure to get those picture-perfect edges every time.
Can I make this fudge dairy-free?
Absolutely! Choose dairy-free white chocolate chips and use coconut condensed milk for a luscious alternative. The caramel sauce and butter can also be subbed with your favorite plant-based versions.
Does Quick Caramel Coffee Fudge need to be refrigerated?
For the best texture and longevity, keep the fudge chilled. Leaving it at room temperature for brief periods during serving is fine, but long-term storage in the fridge ensures it stays firm and fresh.
Final Thoughts
There’s something irresistible about the combination of caramel, coffee, and creamy sweetness packed into Quick Caramel Coffee Fudge. Why not treat yourself and your loved ones to this easy, show-stopping delight? You’ll be amazed at how fast it disappears and how quickly it becomes a requested favorite in your kitchen!
PrintQuick Caramel Coffee Fudge Recipe
Indulge in the rich flavors of coffee and caramel with this quick and easy fudge recipe. Perfect for coffee lovers and those with a sweet tooth!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Mixing, Chilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Coffee Fudge:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon instant coffee granules
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Caramel Swirl:
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Coffee Fudge: In a saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk, white chocolate chips, instant coffee granules, vanilla extract, and salt. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until smooth and well combined.
- Layer the Fudge: Pour half of the fudge mixture into a lined baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Add the Caramel Swirl: Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the fudge in the baking dish. Use a knife to swirl the caramel into the fudge.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat with the remaining fudge and caramel sauce, creating a swirl pattern on top.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the fudge until set, then cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- You can sprinkle some sea salt on top for a salty-sweet twist.
- Store leftover fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approx. 50g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg