If you’re craving a treat that combines rich, buttery sweetness with the warm embrace of toasted nuts and the deep, autumnal flavor of real maple syrup, then you will absolutely adore this Maple Butter Pecan Fudge. This decadent candy is the perfect balance of creamy and crunchy, with each bite melting smoothly in your mouth while delivering bursts of toasted pecan goodness. Whether you’re gifting it or keeping it all to yourself, this fudge recipe is sure to become a beloved classic that shines at holidays or any cozy moment in between.

Maple Butter Pecan Fudge Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients come together to create this irresistible fudge, each playing a vital role—from the natural sweetness of pure maple syrup to the creamy richness of heavy cream and buttery depth that makes fudge unforgettable.

Maple syrup: Choose a high-quality, pure maple syrup to give your fudge that authentic, rich flavor that stands out.

Heavy cream: Adds a velvety texture and luscious creaminess that makes every bite smooth and melt-in-your-mouth.
Granulated sugar: Provides structure and sweetness that balances perfectly with the maple and butter.

Unsalted butter: Brings richness without extra salt, enhancing the overall buttery taste.
Vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla deepens the flavor profile and rounds out the sweetness beautifully.

Chopped pecans, toasted: Toasting pecans intensifies their nutty aroma and crunch, which adds a satisfying texture contrast.
Salt: A pinch of salt brightens all the flavors, preventing the fudge from tasting overly sweet.

How to Make Maple Butter Pecan Fudge

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by lining an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring some overhang on the sides. This little trick will help you lift the fudge out cleanly once it’s set, making cutting and serving a breeze.

Step 2: Combine the Sweet Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, add the maple syrup, heavy cream, granulated sugar, butter, and salt. Stir these together over medium heat, allowing the butter to melt gently into the mixture.

Step 3: Bring to a Boil

Keep stirring frequently until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. This step is crucial because the sugar needs to dissolve completely and the mixture needs to heat evenly for the perfect fudge texture.

Step 4: Cook to Soft-Ball Stage

Attach a candy thermometer to your saucepan and continue cooking while stirring often. Watch closely until the temperature hits 240°F. This soft-ball stage is where the magic happens, ensuring your fudge sets up perfectly soft but firm.

Step 5: Cool Slightly

Remove the saucepan from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes without stirring. This gives the mixture a chance to cool slightly so the vanilla and nuts won’t break down or lose their character when folded in.

Step 6: Stir in Vanilla and Pecans

Now add the vanilla extract and toasted pecans. Stir well until everything is beautifully combined. The warm mixture coats the pecans, giving the fudge a wonderful nutty flavor and texture in every bite.

Step 7: Pour and Spread

Pour the fudge into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. You want it as smooth as possible on top to create those classic fudge squares.

Step 8: Let It Set

Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature until set, which usually takes about 2 hours. Avoid refrigerating as slow cooling helps develop the smooth texture and rich flavor.

Step 9: Cut into Pieces

Once firm, use the parchment overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan. Cut into 16 equally sized pieces and get ready to enjoy the fruits of your labor!

How to Serve Maple Butter Pecan Fudge

Garnishes

A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the fudge just before serving can add an irresistible balance to the sweetness and highlight the buttery notes beautifully. You can also press a few extra toasted pecan halves on top for an elegant touch.

Side Dishes

Maple Butter Pecan Fudge pairs wonderfully with a strong cup of coffee or a warm chai latte, creating a cozy, comforting snack. It also serves as a fantastic finishing bite alongside vanilla ice cream or creamy mascarpone for dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

Try wrapping individual squares in decorative parchment with a ribbon for charming homemade gifts. Or arrange them on a festive platter alongside other nuts and dried fruits for an inviting dessert board that’s perfect for gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Maple Butter Pecan Fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. This keeps the texture soft and fresh without drying out or losing flavor.

Freezing

If you want to keep the fudge longer, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container. Frozen fudge will hold beautifully for up to three months and thaw quickly at room temperature.

Reheating

Fudge usually doesn’t require reheating, but if it gets hard, you can warm it gently by leaving it in a slightly warm room or using a very brief microwave burst wrapped in a damp paper towel to soften just enough.

FAQs

Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?

Brown sugar can add a deeper caramel flavor, but it may affect the texture and color of the fudge. Granulated sugar is recommended for the classic creamy texture and light color of Maple Butter Pecan Fudge.

Do I have to toast the pecans?

Toasting pecans really enhances their nutty aroma and crunch, making them the star of the dish. While it’s optional, it’s highly recommended for the best flavor.

What if I don’t have a candy thermometer?

A candy thermometer ensures precision, but if you don’t have one, you can test the soft-ball stage by dropping a small spoonful of the mixture into cold water; it should form a soft, pliable ball.

Can I substitute butter with margarine?

Butter adds a richness and flavor that margarine can’t fully replicate, so it’s best to stick with unsalted butter for the authentic Maple Butter Pecan Fudge taste and texture.

Is it possible to make this fudge vegan?

Because this recipe relies heavily on dairy products, it’s challenging to make it fully vegan without changing the traditional texture and flavor significantly. However, experimenting with plant-based cream and butter alternatives could work with adjustments.

Final Thoughts

Making Maple Butter Pecan Fudge at home is one of those joyful, rewarding experiences where simple ingredients transform into pure magic. Its luxurious texture, warming maple flavor, and crunchy pecan bites will instantly make it a go-to comfort treat. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and see just how easy and delicious homemade fudge can be.

Maple Butter Pecan Fudge Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 15 reviews

Author: Noah
Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes

Yield: 16 pieces 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Maple Butter Pecan Fudge is a rich and creamy homemade treat combining the natural sweetness of maple syrup with buttery, toasted pecans. This classic confection has a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture with a perfect balance of sweetness and nutty crunch, making it an irresistible dessert or gift during holidays and special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Fudge Base

1 cup maple syrup
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 teaspoon salt

Flavorings and Add-ins

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup chopped pecans, toasted (Toast in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes until fragrant)

Instructions

Prepare the baking dish: Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to remove the fudge once it’s set.
Combine ingredients: In a medium saucepan, mix together the maple syrup, heavy cream, granulated sugar, unsalted butter, and salt.

Heat the mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously until the mixture reaches a gentle boil to dissolve the sugar and combine all ingredients evenly.
Cook to soft-ball stage: Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan. Continue cooking and stirring frequently until the mixture reaches 240°F (soft-ball stage), which ensures proper fudge consistency.
Cool slightly: Remove the pan from heat and let it sit undisturbed for about 5 minutes to cool slightly without stirring, allowing the temperature to stabilize.

Add vanilla and pecans: Stir in the vanilla extract and toasted pecans thoroughly into the warm fudge mixture.
Pour and spread: Transfer the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly using a spatula to ensure uniform thickness.
Set the fudge: Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for approximately 2 hours until it is fully set and firm.

Cut and serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the fudge out of the dish. Cut into 16 equal pieces and serve or store.

Notes

Use pure maple syrup for the best authentic flavor.
Be sure to toast the pecans to enhance their flavor and crunch.

The soft-ball stage is critical; use a reliable candy thermometer for accuracy.
For easier cutting, you can refrigerate the fudge for 30 minutes after it sets at room temperature.
Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or refrigerate for longer keeping.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert

Method: Stovetop cooking, candy making
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 piece (approx. 1.5 inch square)

Calories: 170 kcal
Sugar: 20 g
Sodium: 30 mg

Fat: 8 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 2 g

Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 25 g
Fiber: 1 g

Protein: 2 g
Cholesterol: 25 mg

Keywords: Maple syrup fudge, pecan fudge, homemade fudge, soft ball stage fudge, holiday fudge recipe