Description
Indulge in these creamy maple fudge bites made with pure maple syrup, heavy cream, and a buttery graham cracker base. This sweet treat combines the rich flavors of maple and vanilla with a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture, perfect for satisfying your dessert cravings with a touch of homemade charm.
Ingredients
Scale
Maple Fudge Mixture
- 2 cups pure maple syrup
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Base
- 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers
Instructions
- Prepare the Maple Mixture: Combine the maple syrup and heavy cream in a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan to ensure even heat distribution for smooth cooking.
- Bring to a Boil: Stir the mixture occasionally and heat over medium heat until it reaches a gentle boil.
- Cook to Soft-Ball Stage: Attach a candy thermometer to the pan, making sure it does not touch the bottom, and cook the mixture undisturbed until it reaches 235°F (113°C), the soft-ball stage essential for fudge texture.
- Remove from Heat and Add Flavorings: Take the pan off heat and immediately stir in the cubed butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt for depth of flavor.
- Cool the Mixture: Let the mixture cool without disturbance to about 110°F (43°C), preparing it for beating to develop the fudge’s characteristic texture.
- Beat the Mixture: Using a wooden spoon, beat vigorously for 5 to 8 minutes until the fudge mixture thickens and becomes matte, indicating it is ready to set.
- Prepare the Base: Line a mini muffin tin with parchment liners or lightly grease it to prevent sticking, then sprinkle a thin layer of crushed graham crackers in each mold to form a crunchy base.
- Assemble the Bites: Spoon the thickened fudge mixture carefully over the graham cracker base in each mold and press lightly to adhere and form each bite.
- Set and Chill: Let the fudge bites cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to fully set before serving, enhancing their creamy, firm texture.
Notes
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent burning and ensure even heat distribution during cooking.
- Do not stir the fudge mixture while it is cooking to the soft-ball stage to achieve the proper texture.
- Ensure the candy thermometer is properly positioned to get accurate temperature readings.
- Cooling to the proper temperature before beating is crucial to achieving the right consistency and texture.
- Press the fudge gently onto the graham cracker base to avoid mixing layers but ensure they stick together.
- The fudge bites are best stored refrigerated and enjoyed within a week for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 1h 10m
- Cook Time: 15m
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
