Maple Walnut Fudge – A Creamy, Nutty Classic You’ll Love Every Time

There’s something timeless about the rich, buttery flavor of Maple Walnut Fudge. Sweet, creamy, and perfectly balanced with the crunch of toasted walnuts, it’s a treat that feels like a warm hug in candy form. This old-fashioned favorite comes together easily, whether you’re preparing it for the holidays, gifting it to friends, or simply treating yourself.

I made this fudge for a Thanksgiving dessert table, and it disappeared in minutes. The sweet maple flavor blends beautifully with the earthy crunch of walnuts, creating that irresistible melt-in-your-mouth texture. Best of all, it requires no fancy equipment or candy thermometer — just a saucepan, a few pantry staples, and a bit of stirring.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Maple Walnut Fudge is creamy, rich, and full of deep maple flavor with a satisfying nutty crunch. It’s quick to make, sets beautifully, and is perfect for gift boxes or festive dessert platters. Plus, it keeps well, so you can make it ahead of time and enjoy a little square of sweetness whenever the craving hits.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

White chocolate chips
These form the smooth, creamy base of the fudge. They melt beautifully and give the candy a velvety texture.

Sweetened condensed milk
This is the secret to a rich and silky fudge. It adds sweetness and helps the mixture set without becoming grainy.

Maple syrup
Pure maple syrup infuses the fudge with authentic, earthy sweetness and that signature maple flavor. I once tried using imitation syrup, but pure maple truly makes all the difference.

Butter
Butter adds richness and helps the fudge achieve that soft, melt-in-your-mouth quality.

Vanilla extract
A splash of vanilla enhances the maple flavor and rounds out the sweetness beautifully.

Chopped walnuts
The star mix-in! Walnuts bring texture and contrast to the smooth fudge. Toast them lightly beforehand to enhance their flavor.

Salt
A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and sharpens the nutty, maple tones.

Directions

1. Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. Melt the base: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir continuously until smooth and fully melted.
3. Add flavor: Remove from heat and stir in maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
4. Fold in walnuts: Gently mix in the chopped walnuts, reserving a few for sprinkling on top.
5. Pour and set: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle remaining walnuts on top and gently press them into the surface.
6. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
7. Cut and serve: Lift the fudge out using the parchment paper and slice into small squares.

I like to keep the fudge slightly chilled before serving for the perfect texture — firm yet melt-in-your-mouth soft.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 25 small squares.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Storage/reheating

Store Maple Walnut Fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for up to 3 weeks. To freeze, wrap individual pieces in wax paper and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Variations and Customizations

Dark Maple Fudge
Use half white chocolate and half milk chocolate chips for a richer, more caramel-like flavor.

Vegan Version
Replace butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free white chocolate and condensed coconut milk.

Bourbon Maple Twist
Add a tablespoon of bourbon for an adult-friendly variation with a hint of warmth.

Pecan Substitute
Swap walnuts for pecans for a slightly sweeter, buttery nut flavor.

Salted Maple Fudge
Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top before chilling for a sweet-salty contrast.

Maple Espresso Fudge
Add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to enhance the depth of the maple flavor.

Cranberry Maple Fudge
Fold in dried cranberries for a festive and slightly tart touch.

Layered Maple Fudge
Make half the batch without nuts, then layer it with the walnut mixture for a beautiful presentation.

Brown Butter Maple Fudge
Brown the butter before adding it to the mix for a deeper, nutty aroma.

Gift-Ready Fudge
Cut into bite-sized cubes, wrap in wax paper, and place in small tins for thoughtful homemade gifts.

FAQs

1. Can I use maple extract instead of syrup?

Yes, but reduce the amount slightly since extract is much stronger in flavor.

2. Do I need a candy thermometer for this recipe?

No, this is a no-fail fudge recipe — the condensed milk keeps it perfectly smooth.

3. Can I make this with dark chocolate?

You can, but it will change the flavor significantly. The maple taste shines best with white chocolate.

4. How do I prevent fudge from becoming grainy?

Melt ingredients slowly over low heat and avoid overcooking. Stir constantly for a smooth texture.

5. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just use a 9×13-inch pan and increase the chilling time slightly.

6. How do I toast the walnuts?

Spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until fragrant.

7. Can I use store-bought roasted walnuts?

Yes, just make sure they’re unsalted to avoid overpowering the fudge.

8. How long does it take to set completely?

Usually 2 hours in the fridge, or 1 hour in the freezer if you’re in a hurry.

9. Can I make this fudge without nuts?

Of course! It will still be deliciously smooth and creamy.

10. What’s the best way to cut fudge cleanly?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between each cut.

Conclusion

Maple Walnut Fudge is a creamy, nostalgic treat that’s as elegant as it is easy to make. With its rich maple sweetness, smooth texture, and crunchy walnut pieces, this fudge is perfect for any season — from cozy winter evenings to festive holiday tables. Once you make it, you’ll see why it’s a timeless classic that deserves a spot in every home baker’s recipe collection.

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