White Chocolate Caramel Pecan Fudge

White Chocolate Caramel Pecan Fudge

Alright, this fudge is next-level creamy. It’s packed with buttery pecans, sweet caramel swirls, and smooth white chocolate. I made one pan… and it vanished like magic.Each bite is rich, nutty, and melt-in-your-mouth good. The caramel gives it that gooey surprise, and the crunch from the pecans? Totally perfect. No baking, no stress—just sweet, cozy goodness.

If you love easy treats that feel fancy, this fudge is for you. It’s great for gifting, snacking, or hoarding for yourself (no judgment). I always save a few pieces for later… or try to.

Let’s whip it up! This white chocolate caramel pecan fudge is quick, simple, and so worth it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple Yet Luxurious: Made with just a handful of pantry staples, but tastes like a gourmet dessert.
  • Rich and Creamy: White chocolate and condensed milk create a velvety base that melts in every bite.
  • Nutty Caramel Crunch: Toasted pecans bring texture and flavor contrast that keeps you coming back.
  • Perfect for Gifting: Keeps well, travels well, and looks beautiful in boxes or jars.
  • No Candy Thermometer Needed: Foolproof stovetop method with reliable results every time.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Chill Time: 2–3 hours (until firm)
  • Total Time: About 3 hours and 30 minutes (including chilling)

Servings:

  • Makes about 36 bite-sized squares (perfect for sharing, or not!)

Difficulty:

  • Beginner-friendly — no baking, no tempering, and no fancy equipment needed.

Required Kitchen Tools

  • Heavy-bottomed saucepan
  • Silicone spatula
  • 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch square pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Sharp knife (for clean cuts once chilled)
  • Small skillet (for toasting pecans)
  • Heat-safe bowl (if using microwave method)

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this irresistible fudge (exact amounts in the recipe card below):

  • White Chocolate Chips: Smooth, creamy, and melt beautifully. Use a good quality brand.
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds body and richness without extra sugar.
  • Caramel Sauce: Thick, buttery caramel for swirling into the fudge. Homemade or store-bought.
  • Toasted Pecans (Chopped): Toasting brings out deeper flavor and crunch.
  • Vanilla Extract: Just a touch boosts the overall flavor profile.
  • Salt: A pinch balances the sweetness and enhances the caramel.
See also  Brownie Cheesecake

How to Make White Chocolate Caramel Pecan Fudge – Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan

Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This makes it easier to lift the fudge out later.

2. Toast the Pecans

Place the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently for about 3–5 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Let them cool while you prep the fudge base.

3. Melt the White Chocolate

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over low heat, combine white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir continuously with a silicone spatula until smooth and completely melted. This takes about 5–7 minutes. Be patient — don’t crank the heat or you’ll risk scorching the chocolate.

4. Add Flavor

Remove the mixture from heat. Stir in vanilla extract and salt. Fold in about two-thirds of the toasted pecans, saving the rest for the topping.

5. Pour and Swirl

Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan and smooth out the top with your spatula. Drop spoonfuls of caramel sauce on top, then use a knife or skewer to gently swirl it into the fudge. Sprinkle the remaining pecans evenly over the top.

6. Chill Until Firm

Refrigerate the pan for at least 2–3 hours, or until fully set. For clean slices, lift the fudge out using the parchment overhang and cut with a sharp knife that’s been warmed under hot water and wiped dry.

Serving and Decoration

This fudge doesn’t need much to shine, but here are a few ideas:

  • Cut into clean cubes and arrange on a dessert tray for holiday gatherings.
  • Wrap individual squares in wax paper or place in mini cupcake liners for gifting.
  • Drizzle extra caramel over the top before chilling if you love more gooey goodness.
  • Dust lightly with flaky sea salt for a sweet-and-salty contrast.
See also  Chocolate Cheesecake Brownie Bars Recipe

Storing White Chocolate Caramel Pecan Fudge

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Keep parchment between layers to avoid sticking.
  • Freezer: Freeze fudge in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
  • Room Temp (Short-Term): If your kitchen is cool, it can sit out for up to 3 days, but the texture stays best when chilled.

Tips and Tricks for Success

  • Use good quality white chocolate. Cheap chips may not melt well or taste creamy.
  • Toast your pecans. It makes a difference. Raw pecans are bland, but toasted ones are rich and nutty.
  • Don’t overheat the chocolate. Keep the heat low and stir constantly. White chocolate burns faster than dark.
  • Line your pan well. Parchment paper with overhang makes removing and cutting the fudge neat and easy.
  • Chill fully before cutting. Let it firm up completely or your slices will be messy.

Nutrition

Here’s the estimated nutrition per square (based on 36 servings):

NutrientAmount
Calories165 kcal
Total Fat9 g
Saturated Fat4.5 g
Cholesterol10 mg
Sodium35 mg
Total Carbohydrates20 g
Sugar18 g
Protein1 g

Note: These values are approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.

White Chocolate Caramel Pecan Fudge

Recipe by Jordi RocaCourse: Brownie Recipes
Servings

35

squares
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

10

minutes
Calories

165

kcal
Chill Time

2-3

hour

Directions

  • Prep the pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides.
  • Toast the pecans: In a skillet over medium heat, toast chopped pecans for 3–5 minutes, stirring often. Set aside.
  • Melt fudge base: In a saucepan over low heat, melt white chocolate chips with sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly until smooth.
  • Flavor it: Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla, salt, and ⅔ of the toasted pecans.
  • Swirl caramel: Pour mixture into pan. Drop spoonfuls of caramel on top and swirl with a skewer. Sprinkle remaining pecans over the top.
  • Chill: Refrigerate 2–3 hours or until firm. Slice into squares and enjoy.

White Chocolate Caramel Pecan Fudge FAQs

Can I use dark or milk chocolate instead of white chocolate?
You can, but it will change the flavor completely. White chocolate pairs best with the buttery caramel and toasted pecans in this version.

What’s the best caramel to use?
Use a thick, high-quality caramel sauce. If it’s too thin, it will run off rather than swirl.

Can I skip the nuts?
Yes. If you’re nut-free, you can leave them out or substitute with something like crushed pretzels for crunch.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Use a 9×13 pan and increase chill time slightly.

Conclusion

This White Chocolate Caramel Pecan Fudge is everything a homemade treat should be—rich, creamy, nutty, and just the right amount of sweet. It’s simple to make but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Perfect for holidays, gifts, or a “just because” kind of moment.

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