Maple Walnut Fudge Perfect for Fall Treats

There’s something downright magical about fudge—it’s rich, decadent, and bites of pure indulgence. And when you bring warm maple syrup and crunchy walnuts into the mix? Oh, we’re talking about the ultimate treat that feels like fall wrapped up in a cozy little bite.

**If you’re craving a dessert that’s as simple to make as it is irresistible, this Maple Walnut Fudge is calling your name!**

### **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
– **Quick to Make**: Just a handful of ingredients and under 20 minutes of prep time.
– **Perfect for Gifting**: Wrap these up in cute paper or boxes—they make an amazing homemade gift during the holidays or for a special occasion.
– **Flavors that Shine**: The pure maple syrup and nutty crunch from the walnuts take this fudge to a whole new level.
– **No Candy Thermometer Needed**: Yep, this recipe keeps things simple while delivering creamy, dreamy results.

### **Ingredients Breakdown**
#### Essentials:
– **Pure Maple Syrup**: Go for the real-deal stuff! It’s the star, so skip the imitation syrups—Grade A amber works beautifully here.
– **Sweetened Condensed Milk**: This adds creamy richness and is the fudge’s backbone.
– **Butter**: A little unsalted butter helps give that luscious, smooth texture.
– **White Chocolate Chips**: They melt perfectly and complement the maple flavor wonderfully.
– **Walnuts**: Chopped for just the right amount of crunch in every bite.

#### Pro Tips:
– Want an extra dimension of flavor? Toast the walnuts lightly in a dry skillet for a few minutes before adding them to the fudge. It’s a subtle step but makes a big difference.
– No white chocolate chips? Try chopped white chocolate bars instead—they melt just as beautifully.

### **Step-by-Step Instructions**
1. **Prep Your Pan**: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over the sides for easy removal later. Lightly grease the paper if needed.
2. **Create the Fudge Base**: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the condensed milk, butter, and white chocolate chips. Stir frequently until everything has melted together into a smooth, glossy mixture.
3. **Add the Star Ingredient**: Stir in the maple syrup, mixing well until fully incorporated. The aroma at this point? Absolutely divine!
4. **Fold in the Walnuts**: Gently fold the chopped walnuts into the fudge mixture, ensuring even distribution.
5. **Pour and Smooth**: Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
6. **Chill to Perfection**: Let the fudge cool to room temperature, then pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours (or until firm).
7. **Slice and Serve**: Lift the fudge out using the parchment paper and cut into small squares. Pro tip: Use a sharp, warm knife (run it under hot water, then dry) for clean edges.

### **Chef’s Tips and Tricks**
– **Keep it Fresh**: Store this fudge in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks—or freeze it for up to 2 months.
– **Why Room Temperature is Key**: Before slicing, let your chilled fudge sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to avoid cracking.
– **Don’t Overheat**: When melting your chocolate, keep the heat on low. White chocolate is temperamental and can seize if overheated.

### **Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions**
– **Add a Sweet Drizzle**: Before refrigerating, drizzle a little extra maple syrup on top and swirl it with a toothpick for a pretty presentation.
– **Play with Nuts**: Not a walnut fan? Pecans or hazelnuts make excellent substitutes.
– **Sprinkle of Salt**: Want a sweet-salty vibe? Finish the fudge with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt before refrigerating.
– **Holiday Ready**: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the base for a festive spice flavor.

### **FAQs**
**Q: Can I double the recipe?**
Absolutely! Use a 9×13-inch pan to accommodate the extra fudge, but keep the chilling time the same.

**Q: Can I use dark or milk chocolate instead of white?**
While white chocolate brings out the maple flavor beautifully, you can swap it for milk or dark chocolate if you’d like richer, deeper notes.

**Q: How do I store leftovers?**
Keep your fudge in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain that silky texture and prevent it from drying out.

### **Maple Walnut Fudge Recipe Card**

This Maple Walnut Fudge is a delightful bite of creamy, crunchy goodness. Perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself)! Don’t forget to snap a pic and tag #TheKitchensAid—I can’t wait to see your creations!