Chocolate Caramel Pecan Fudge
Caramel Chocolate Pecan Fudge – Cloverleaf
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Rich, creamy chocolate fudge loaded with crunchy pecans and swirled with golden caramel. This easy no-bake dessert is perfect for Christmas, holidays, parties, or whenever you want a delicious homemade treat.
No-bakeEasy dessertChocolate & caramel
Ingredients
For the chocolate fudge
- 3 cups (about 510 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz / 397 g) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (about 110 g) chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, optional, for extra richness
For the caramel swirl
- ½ cup (120 ml) caramel sauce or caramel topping
- ¼ cup chopped pecans, for topping
- A pinch of sea salt, optional
For the pan
- 8 × 8-inch square baking pan
- Parchment paper or nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the baking pan
Line an 8 × 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some paper hanging over the sides. This will make it easy to lift out the fudge once it has set.
Lightly grease the parchment paper if desired.
Step 2: Prepare the pecans
Chop the pecans into small pieces.
For extra flavor, toast them in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for about 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently. Let them cool.
Toasting is optional, but it gives the fudge a wonderful nutty flavor.
Step 3: Melt the chocolate
Place the semi-sweet chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a microwave-safe bowl.
Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval, until the chocolate is mostly melted and the mixture is smooth.
Add the butter, if using, and stir until completely melted.
Stovetop method: Place the chocolate chips, condensed milk, and butter in a saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly until smooth and melted. Do not let the mixture boil.
Step 4: Add the vanilla and pecans
Remove the bowl from the heat.
Stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans until evenly combined.
The mixture should be thick, glossy, and rich.
Step 5: Transfer to the pan
Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared pan.
Use a spatula to spread it evenly into the corners. Smooth the surface as much as possible.
Step 6: Add the caramel swirl
Drizzle the caramel sauce over the top of the chocolate fudge.
Using a butter knife or the tip of a spatula, gently swirl the caramel into the chocolate.
Do not overmix. You want beautiful ribbons of caramel throughout the fudge.
Sprinkle extra chopped pecans over the top and add a tiny pinch of sea salt if you love sweet-and-salty desserts.
Step 7: Chill until firm
Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 3–4 hours, or until the fudge is firm.
For the cleanest slices, chill overnight.
Step 8: Cut and serve
Lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper.
Place it on a cutting board and cut into small squares with a sharp knife.
For cleaner cuts, warm the knife slightly and wipe it between slices.
Serve and enjoy your homemade chocolate caramel pecan fudge!
Recipe details
Prep time
15 minutes
Chill time
3–4 hours
Yield
About 25 small squares
Cooking
No oven required
Helpful tips
- Use good-quality chocolate chips: Semi-sweet chocolate gives the fudge a balanced flavor with the sweet caramel.
- Don’t overheat the chocolate: Melt slowly and stir often to keep the fudge smooth.
- For a stronger caramel flavor: Add extra caramel drizzle on top just before serving.
- For firmer fudge: Chill overnight before cutting.
- For easier slicing: Use a warm, sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1–2 weeks. You can also freeze the fudge for up to 2–3 months.
A delicious holiday treat
This Chocolate Caramel Pecan Fudge combines everything you want in an indulgent dessert: smooth chocolate, sweet caramel, and crunchy pecans in every bite. It’s easy to make, requires no oven, and looks beautiful on a holiday dessert table.
Save this recipe for your next chocolate craving! 🍫🥜
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