Caramel Coffee Fudge Recipe
This Caramel Coffee Fudge Recipe is pure indulgence! Made with espresso, brown sugar, butter, condensed milk, and vanilla for smooth, sweet dessert bites.
Equipment
- Heavy-bottom saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Whisk
- Baking tray or square tin (lined with parchment paper)
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Candy thermometer (optional but helpful)
- Knife for cutting fudge
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons instant coffee powder or 1 shot strong espresso
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup brown sugar for deeper caramel flavor
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Optional toppings:
- Crushed nuts walnuts or almonds
- Sea salt flakes
- Coffee drizzle
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare your pan
- Line a square baking tin with parchment paper, leaving extra hanging over the edges. This helps lift the fudge out easily later.
Step 2: Start the caramel base
- In a heavy-bottom saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add granulated sugar and brown sugar slowly, stirring continuously so it doesn’t burn. This is where the caramel foundation of the Caramel Coffee Fudge Recipe begins.
Step 3: Add condensed milk
- Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and stir gently. Keep the heat low — patience is key here. The mixture should become smooth and glossy.
Step 4: Add coffee flavor
- Dissolve instant coffee in a tablespoon of warm water or add espresso directly. Pour it into the mixture and whisk well. The aroma at this stage is absolutely incredible.
Step 5: Cook until thickened
- Continue stirring for 10–15 minutes until the mixture thickens and starts pulling away from the sides of the pan. If you’re using a thermometer, aim for the soft-ball stage (around 115°C / 240°F).
Step 6: Add finishing flavors
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt. These small additions make a huge difference in flavor balance.
Step 7: Pour and set
- Pour the mixture into the prepared tray. Smooth the top and sprinkle optional nuts or sea salt if desired.
Step 8: Chill
- Let it cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm.
Step 9: Slice and serve
- Once set, lift the fudge out and cut into small squares. Your Caramel Coffee Fudge Recipe is ready to enjoy!
Notes
- Always use low heat to avoid burning the caramel
- Stir continuously — don’t walk away
- Fresh coffee gives a stronger aroma than instant
- Line your pan properly or the fudge may stick
- Let it fully chill before cutting for clean edges