If you have a sweet tooth and a love for rich, indulgent treats, then this Caramel Coffee Fudge Recipe is about to become your new obsession. It’s a luscious layered dessert that combines the smooth sweetness of Dulce de Leche caramel with the bold, deep flavor of coffee-infused fudge. Each bite offers a creamy texture with just the right amount of sweetness and that irresistible hint of coffee that perfectly balances the caramel. Whether you’re looking for a special treat to impress guests or just want to spoil yourself, this Caramel Coffee Fudge Recipe delivers an unforgettable dessert experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Caramel Coffee Fudge Recipe is surprisingly simple to make but requires just the right ingredients to capture its creamy, rich character. Each ingredient plays a key role, from the creamy white chocolate chips providing sweetness and smooth melt, to the Dulce de Leche adding a luscious caramel flavor, and the instant coffee delivering that subtle, robust kick.
- White chocolate chips: These offer a milky sweetness and smooth texture essential for both fudge layers.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps achieve the perfect creamy consistency.
- Canned Dulce de Leche: Gives the caramel layer its deep, velvety flavor and beautiful golden color.
- Marshmallow cream: Contributes a light, fluffy texture that keeps the fudge from becoming too dense.
- Instant coffee: Brings a warm, aromatic coffee flavor without overpowering the sweetness.
- Hot water: Helps dissolve the coffee evenly for consistent flavor distribution.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds sweetness and smoothness to the coffee fudge layer.
- Dark chocolate melting wafers: Perfect for drizzling on top to add a touch of rich contrast and elegance.
How to Make Caramel Coffee Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8 inch baking dish with foil. This simple step ensures that your fudge won’t stick and makes it super easy to lift out when it’s time to cut into those perfectly shaped squares.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Layer
In a saucepan over low to medium heat, melt the white chocolate chips with the butter until smooth and silky. Stir in the Dulce de Leche and mix until the combination becomes rich and creamy. Add the marshmallow cream last, stirring patiently until the mixture turns luxuriously creamy. Pour this beautifully caramel-hued layer into your prepared pan and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes until it’s firm but not hard.
Step 3: Prepare the Coffee Mixture
In a small bowl, dissolve the instant coffee in the hot water to extract all that wonderful coffee flavor without any gritty texture. This step is key to making sure your coffee fudge layer is smooth and flavorful.
Step 4: Make the Coffee Fudge Layer
Using a clean saucepan, melt the white chocolate chips and butter over low to medium heat again. Once melted and smooth, stir in the coffee-infused sweetened condensed milk until well combined and creamy. Add the marshmallow cream once more and mix until you get that signature fudge creaminess. Pour this coffee fudge gently over the set caramel layer, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight to let the layers set firm.
Step 5: Cut and Decorate
When your fudge is fully set, lift it out using the foil edges and carefully peel away the foil. To achieve neat, clean squares, warm a sharp knife before slicing to gently cut through the layers without cracking. Heat the dark chocolate melting wafers in short bursts in the microwave, stirring until silky smooth. Place the melted chocolate in a small baggie with a tiny tip cut off, then drizzle artistically over the fudge squares for that perfect finishing touch.
How to Serve Caramel Coffee Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Caramel Coffee Fudge Recipe, consider a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a dusting of cocoa powder. These subtle garnishes add bursts of flavor and give the fudge an inviting, gourmet appearance.
Side Dishes
This fudge pairs beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or even a creamy latte for a harmonious dessert experience. For a lighter contrast, serve alongside fresh berries or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance out the decadence.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging your fudge squares on a wooden board with sprigs of fresh mint or edible flowers for a stunning display. You can also package individual squares in cute paper cups for gifting or party favors—a sweet surprise that friends and family will love!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Caramel Coffee Fudge Recipe keeps wonderfully at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week. Just make sure it’s in a cool place away from direct sunlight to preserve freshness and texture.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this treat later, fudge freezes beautifully. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When ready, thaw at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
Reheating
Fudge is best enjoyed as is, but if you prefer a softer texture, simply let it come to room temperature or warm slightly in your hands. Avoid microwaving it directly, as it may melt unevenly and lose that perfect fudge consistency.
FAQs
Can I use regular coffee instead of instant coffee in this Caramel Coffee Fudge Recipe?
Instant coffee is preferred for its ability to dissolve completely without affecting the fudge texture. Using brewed coffee might add extra liquid, which can change the consistency and setting of the fudge.
What’s the best way to melt the chocolate without burning it?
The key is to melt chocolate slowly over low heat or use a double boiler. Stir frequently to distribute heat evenly and prevent scorching. If using a microwave, heat in short bursts and stir between intervals for smooth melting.
Can I substitute marshmallow cream with homemade marshmallows?
While homemade marshmallows might work, marshmallow cream is smoother and easier to incorporate into the fudge, ensuring the best texture. Using homemade versions may affect the consistency.
How long will this fudge last once made?
This Caramel Coffee Fudge Recipe will stay fresh for up to a week stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, freezing is recommended.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
Adapting this recipe for dietary restrictions is tricky due to the dairy-based ingredients like butter, condensed milk, and white chocolate chips. However, you can experiment with dairy-free alternatives, keeping in mind the texture and flavor may vary.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a decadent treat that effortlessly combines the sweetness of caramel with the robust charm of coffee, this Caramel Coffee Fudge Recipe is calling your name. It’s a delightful indulgence perfect for sharing or savoring all to yourself. Go ahead and give it a try—you’ll soon realize why this fudge is a beloved favorite at gatherings and quiet moments alike!
Print
Caramel Coffee Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes plus chilling time (4 hours to overnight)
- Yield: 36 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the rich and creamy Caramel Coffee Fudge, a luscious layered treat blending the sweetness of white chocolate and dulce de leche with a hint of bold coffee flavor. This no-bake dessert features a smooth caramel layer topped with a coffee-infused white chocolate layer, finished with a drizzle of dark chocolate that creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Ideal for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a decadent homemade gift.
Ingredients
Caramel Layer
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup canned Dulce de Leche
- 1/2 cup marshmallow cream
Coffee Layer
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 2 teaspoons instant coffee
- 1 teaspoon hot water
- 1/2 cup marshmallow cream
Chocolate Drizzle
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate melting wafers
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with foil and set aside for easy removal of the fudge later.
- Melt Caramel Layer Ingredients: In a saucepan over low to medium heat, combine 2 cups white chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Stir gently until fully melted and smooth.
- Add Dulce de Leche and Marshmallow Cream: Stir in 3/4 cup canned Dulce de Leche until creamy. Then add 1/2 cup marshmallow cream and stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Set the Caramel Layer: Pour the caramel mixture into the prepared pan, smooth the surface, and refrigerate for 30 minutes or until slightly set.
- Prepare Coffee Mixture: Dissolve 2 teaspoons instant coffee in 1 teaspoon hot water. Stir this coffee mixture into 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk until fully combined. Set aside.
- Melt Coffee Layer Ingredients: In a clean saucepan over low to medium heat, melt 2 cups white chocolate chips with 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, stirring until smooth.
- Combine Coffee Mixture and Marshmallow Cream: Stir the coffee-sweetened condensed milk mixture into the melted chocolate mixture until creamy. Then mix in 1/2 cup marshmallow cream until fully blended.
- Pour Coffee Layer: Pour this coffee-flavored white chocolate mixture over the set caramel layer. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully set.
- Cut the Fudge: Remove the foil from the pan, peel it off the fudge, and use a hot knife to carefully cut into 36 bite-sized squares. Allow them to come to room temperature for easier handling.
- Melt Dark Chocolate for Drizzle: Heat 1/4 cup dark chocolate melting wafers in the microwave for 30 seconds, stir until smooth, and heat an additional 15 seconds if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
- Drizzle Chocolate: Spoon the melted dark chocolate into a small resealable bag, cut a tiny tip from a corner, and drizzle the chocolate decoratively over the fudge squares.
- Set and Store: Allow the drizzle to set at room temperature. Store the fudge in a sealed container on the counter for up to a week.
Notes
- Use a hot knife to cut the fudge cleanly without cracking or crumbling.
- If Dulce de Leche is unavailable, caramel sauce can be a substitute but will alter texture slightly.
- The fudge can be refrigerated to firm up faster but should be brought to room temperature before serving for best texture.
- Ensure all melting and stirring are done gently over low heat to avoid burning the chocolate.
- For a stronger coffee flavor, increase instant coffee by 1 teaspoon.
