If you’re searching for the dessert that satisfies both your sweet caramel cravings and coffee obsession, Caramel Coffee Fudge will absolutely steal your heart (and taste buds). Velvety white chocolate blends with notes of espresso and buttery caramel, creating a melt-in-your-mouth treat with layers of flavor in every bite. This no-bake recipe is incredibly simple to whip up, perfect for gift-giving, celebrations, or just an indulgently cozy night in. Ready to experience your new favorite fudge?
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Caramel Coffee Fudge only needs a handful of everyday ingredients, but each one plays a vital part in delivering the dreamy creaminess, deep coffee kick, and beautiful golden swirls. Here’s how they all work together to create magic in your mouth:
- White chocolate chips: Provides the creamy, sweet base and helps the fudge set to the perfect texture.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds rich sweetness and keeps everything lusciously soft and smooth.
- Instant coffee granules: Infuses the fudge with bold coffee flavor that balances the caramel.
- Hot water: Dissolves the coffee so it stirs seamlessly into the mixture.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor, making each note pop.
- Salt: Just a pinch brings out the sweetness and ties all the flavors together.
- Caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling): Adds that signature gooey, golden ribbon throughout the fudge and delivers a stunning visual swirl.
- Chopped pecans (optional): For a buttery crunch and nutty richness—totally up to you!
How to Make Caramel Coffee Fudge
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure there’s enough overhang on the sides. This step is not just about easy cleanup—it’s the secret to lifting out your flawless Caramel Coffee Fudge squares later, so don’t skip it!
Step 2: Dissolve the Coffee
Grab a small bowl and mix your instant coffee granules with a tablespoon of hot water. This unlocks the coffee’s deep flavor and ensures it blends smoothly into your fudge. Set the bowl aside for now.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate and Milk
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly until the chocolate chips are fully melted and the mixture is creamy and thickened. Take your time—low and slow is the way to perfect, lump-free fudge.
Step 4: Stir in the Good Stuff
Remove the saucepan from heat. Quickly stir in the dissolved coffee, vanilla extract, salt, and caramel sauce until everything is smooth, shiny, and streaked with inviting caramel. If you love a crunch, now’s the time to gently fold in the pecans.
Step 5: Pour and Swirl
Pour your fudge mixture into the lined pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Drizzle a little extra caramel sauce over the top, then create magical marbled swirls using a knife or toothpick. This step makes each piece as gorgeous as it is delicious!
Step 6: Chill Until Firm
Pop the pan into your refrigerator and let the Caramel Coffee Fudge set for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better for maximum flavor). Once firm, lift it out using the parchment overhang, cut into tantalizing squares, and get ready to wow everyone you share with—or just savor them all yourself!
How to Serve Caramel Coffee Fudge
Garnishes
Enhance the beauty and taste of your Caramel Coffee Fudge by adding a few finishing touches. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt intensifies the caramel notes, while extra caramel drizzle or a handful of chopped pecans on top add visual appeal and texture. For an elegant finish, dust with a little cocoa powder or arrange chocolate-covered espresso beans nearby.
Side Dishes
This fudge pairs harmoniously with a frosty glass of milk, or play up the coffee element by serving it with an espresso or cappuccino. A scoop of vanilla or salted caramel ice cream alongside a square or two turns this treat into a dazzling dessert plate worthy of any dinner party.
Creative Ways to Present
Bring a smile to any gathering by packaging Caramel Coffee Fudge squares individually in parchment or wax paper for sweet gifts. Layer them on a pretty platter or mix with a selection of brownies or truffles for a luxurious dessert board. For special occasions, cut the fudge into fun shapes with cookie cutters or stack pieces into a dessert tower.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Caramel Coffee Fudge will stay fresh and delicious when kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Layer fudge pieces with parchment paper to stop them from sticking together and maintain their irresistible texture.
Freezing
If you want to keep your fudge for longer, you can absolutely freeze it! Place the fudge squares in a freezer-safe container, separated with parchment paper, and freeze for up to two months. Let the pieces thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before indulging.
Reheating
Typically, this treat is served chilled or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t required. If you prefer a softer, gooier bite, just leave a square out for 10-15 minutes before serving to let it mellow slightly and enhance the caramel’s silkiness.
FAQs
Can I use dark or milk chocolate instead of white chocolate?
White chocolate is essential for the classic Caramel Coffee Fudge flavor and luscious creaminess, but you can experiment with milk or dark chocolate if you prefer a richer, deeper taste—just keep in mind it will change the flavor and color of your fudge.
How can I boost the coffee flavor even more?
If you’re a true coffee lover, simply add an extra teaspoon of instant coffee when dissolving it in hot water. You can even top the fudge with espresso powder or coffee beans for an added punch.
Is it possible to make this fudge dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free white chocolate chips and a plant-based sweetened condensed milk alternative. Double-check that your caramel sauce and other add-ins are dairy-free too for the best results.
What’s the best way to cut clean fudge squares?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry before each cut. This will make slicing super smooth and keep the caramel swirls neat and beautiful.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Toasted almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, or even a handful of toffee bits or chocolate chips transform your Caramel Coffee Fudge with fun new flavors and textures.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try this Caramel Coffee Fudge and watch everyone light up after that very first bite. It’s one of those unforgettable treats that’s both show-stopping yet so easy to make. Give it a whirl, share it with friends, or just enjoy a secret stash all to yourself—you’ll be hooked in no time!
Print
Caramel Coffee Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of Caramel Coffee Fudge. This no-bake dessert combines the flavors of white chocolate, coffee, and caramel for a decadent treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 3 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon instant coffee granules
- 1 tablespoon hot water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
For the Fudge:
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
- Mix Coffee: Dissolve instant coffee granules in hot water and set aside.
- Melt Ingredients: In a saucepan, melt white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir until smooth.
- Add Flavors: Stir in dissolved coffee, vanilla extract, salt, and caramel sauce. Fold in pecans if desired.
- Set Fudge: Pour mixture into pan, smooth the top, drizzle with extra caramel, swirl, and refrigerate for 4 hours.
- Serve: Lift fudge out of the pan, cut into squares, and enjoy!
Notes
- For a stronger coffee flavor, add extra instant coffee.
- Sprinkle sea salt for a salted caramel variation.
- Store fudge in the fridge for up to one week.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
