The Sweet & Salty Magic: Homemade Salted Butterscotch Fudge Recipe

Sweet memories flood back when I first tasted this incredible salted butterscotch fudge recipe that instantly became my go-to dessert.

Rich caramel notes dance with a perfect hint of salt, creating an irresistible treat that melts beautifully on your tongue.

Smooth textures combine with deep, complex flavors that surprise even experienced bakers.

Those butterscotch hints whisper of nostalgic comfort while delivering a sophisticated twist.

Delicate sea salt crystals provide unexpected complexity that transforms each bite into a gourmet experience.

Impressing guests with something so simple yet extraordinary – this fudge does exactly that.

Prepare to experience a dessert that feels like a warm hug from your favorite pastry chef.

Why Salted Butterscotch Fudge Recipe Has a Sweet and Salty Punch

• Indulge in Luxurious Butterscotch Bliss: This fudge delivers an incredible depth of rich, caramel-like butterscotch flavor that melts smoothly on your tongue, creating a decadent treat that feels like a gourmet dessert.
• Foolproof Sweet Craft: The recipe offers a simple, step-by-step process that even novice cooks can master, requiring just basic kitchen tools and minimal technical skills to create a professional-looking confection.
• Quick Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Prepare this show-stopping dessert in under 30 minutes of active cooking time, with minimal chilling needed, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings, holiday gifts, or spontaneous sweet cravings.
• Customize Your Sweetness: The sprinkle of sea salt adds a sophisticated twist, allowing you to control the balance between sweet and salty, creating a gourmet experience that elevates traditional fudge to a next-level treat.

Ingredients for Salted Butterscotch Fudge Recipe

• Sugar, Heavy Cream: Sweet and creamy base that provides the classic fudge texture and rich flavor. White granulated sugar works best for smooth consistency.
• Corn Syrup: Helps prevent sugar crystallization and creates a smooth, glossy finish. Light corn syrup is preferred for better results.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth, creamy texture. Use unsalted butter for better control of salt levels.

• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and warmth to the butterscotch flavor. Pure vanilla extract provides the best taste.
• Sea Salt: Provides a delightful contrast to the sweet butterscotch. Flaky sea salt works great for both mixing and topping.

• Butterscotch Chips: Delivers the signature butterscotch flavor and helps create a creamy fudge texture. High-quality chips melt smoothly and provide the best taste.
• Parchment Paper: Essential for easy removal and clean cutting of the fudge. Ensures the fudge doesn't stick to the pan.

Quick Steps for Salted Butterscotch Fudge Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Canvas

Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing extra edges to hang over the sides. Lightly coat the parchment with a thin layer of butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy removal later.

Step 2: Create the Sweet Base

• White sugar
• Heavy cream
• Light corn syrup
• Unsalted butter

Heat the mixture over medium flame, stirring continuously until butter completely melts and sugar dissolves into a silky smooth blend.

Step 3: Bring the Magical Mixture to Life

Gently increase the heat and let the mixture bubble softly. Keep stirring frequently while monitoring the temperature with a candy thermometer. You’re aiming for the perfect 240°F (115°C) soft-ball stage, which creates that dreamy fudge texture.

Step 4: Infuse Flavor Magic

• Pure vanilla extract
• Sea salt
• Butterscotch chips

Whisk until the chips melt completely, creating a glossy, irresistible mixture that looks like liquid gold.

Step 5: Pour and Spread the Goodness

Transfer the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring a smooth and inviting surface.

Step 6: Sprinkle Salt Crystals

Delicately scatter additional sea salt across the top, creating beautiful white crystals that promise a flavor explosion.

Step 7: Let the Fudge Set

Allow the fudge to cool naturally at room temperature for 2-3 hours. If you’re feeling impatient, pop it in the refrigerator for about an hour to speed up the setting process.

Step 8: Slice and Enjoy

Once the fudge has completely set, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper edges. Slice into perfect squares and watch everyone’s eyes light up with excitement.

Best Tips for Smooth Salted Butterscotch Fudge

• Precision Matters: Use a reliable candy thermometer to ensure the sugar mixture reaches exactly 240F (115C) for the perfect fudge texture.
• Prevent Sugar Crystallization: Stir constantly during cooking and avoid scraping the sides of the pan to keep the fudge smooth and creamy.
• Customize Salt Levels: Adjust sea salt to taste, starting with a light sprinkle and adding more if you prefer a bolder salted butterscotch flavor.
• Storage Secrets: Keep fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
• Quick Cooling Hack: Place the fudge in the refrigerator to set faster, but let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Butterscotch Fudge Properly

• Refrigerate: Store the salted butterscotch fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Layer pieces between wax paper to prevent sticking and maintain their perfect texture.
• Freeze: Wrap individual fudge pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen fudge stays delicious for 3 months without losing its rich flavor.
• Thaw Gently: Remove frozen fudge from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes. This slow thawing prevents condensation and keeps the texture smooth and creamy.
• Serve Chilled: For the best taste and consistency, serve fudge slightly chilled. Keep it refrigerated until just before enjoying its decadent butterscotch goodness.

Top Pairings for Salted Butterscotch Fudge Recipe

• Pair with Rich, Creamy Coffee: Complement the sweet butterscotch fudge with a velvety latte or cappuccino, letting the robust coffee flavors balance the sugary richness of the dessert.
• Match with Smooth Bourbon: Serve alongside a small glass of bourbon, where the whiskey's caramel undertones will dance beautifully with the butterscotch's deep, buttery notes.
• Create a Dessert Plate with Nutty Crunch: Arrange the fudge squares next to some toasted almonds or pecans, adding a delightful textural contrast that enhances the sweet, salty experience.
• Combine with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Top a scoop of premium vanilla bean ice cream with a small piece of fudge, creating a decadent and indulgent dessert pairing that melts together perfectly.

New Spins on Salted Butterscotch Fudge Recipe

• Caramel Crunch Butterscotch Fudge: Sprinkle crushed pecans or toffee bits on top before the fudge sets, adding a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the classic butterscotch recipe.
• Chocolate Marble Butterscotch Fudge: Swirl melted dark chocolate through the butterscotch mixture before pouring into the pan, creating a beautiful marbled effect with rich chocolate undertones.
• Spiced Butterscotch Fudge: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg to the sugar mixture for a warm, aromatic twist that enhances the butterscotch's natural sweetness.
• Coconut Butterscotch Fudge: Fold in toasted coconut flakes during the final mixing stage, introducing a tropical texture and complementary flavor to the creamy butterscotch base.

Salted Butterscotch Fudge FAQ

• What makes this fudge different from traditional fudge?

This salted butterscotch fudge offers a unique twist by combining the rich sweetness of butterscotch with a delicate sea salt finish, creating a perfect balance of flavors that elevates the classic fudge recipe.

• Do I need any special equipment to make this fudge?

You’ll need a candy thermometer to ensure the sugar mixture reaches the correct temperature (240F or 115C), which is crucial for achieving the perfect fudge consistency.

• Can I substitute the butterscotch chips with another type of chip?

While butterscotch chips are key to this recipe’s distinctive flavor, you could experiment with caramel or white chocolate chips, but the taste will be noticeably different from the original recipe.

• Why is it important to stir constantly when cooking the sugar mixture?

Constant stirring prevents the sugar from burning and ensures even heating, which is critical for creating a smooth, creamy fudge with the right texture and consistency.

Salted Butterscotch Fudge Recipe

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4.6 from 18 reviews

• Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
• Yield: 36 1x

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Description

Creamy salted butterscotch fudge delivers sweet-salty magic from classic American kitchens. Rich caramel notes and buttery texture invite dessert enthusiasts to savor each indulgent bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups (350 g) butterscotch chips
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, cubed

Liquid Ingredients:

• ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
• ¼ cup (60 ml) light corn syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Seasoning:

• ½ teaspoon sea salt, plus more for sprinkling

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Instructions

1. Prepare the baking vessel by lining an 8-inch square dish with parchment paper, ensuring excess paper hangs over the edges for effortless removal. Gently coat the parchment with a thin layer of butter to prevent sticking.
2. Combine sugar, cream, corn syrup, and butter in a medium saucepan. Melt the ingredients together over medium heat, stirring continuously until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture becomes uniform.
3. Gradually increase the heat and allow the mixture to enter a gentle, rolling boil. Stir frequently and monitor the temperature carefully until it reaches the soft-ball stage at 240°F, which indicates the perfect candy consistency.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat source. Incorporate vanilla extract and sea salt, then gently fold in butterscotch chips. Stir until the chips melt completely, creating a silky, smooth texture.
5. Carefully transfer the molten fudge into the prepared pan, using a spatula to distribute the mixture evenly and eliminate any air pockets.
6. Sprinkle a delicate layer of sea salt across the surface, creating an enticing contrast of sweet and savory flavors.
7. Allow the fudge to rest and solidify at room temperature for approximately 2-3 hours. For those seeking a quicker setting time, placing the pan in the refrigerator can accelerate the process to roughly one hour.
8. Once fully set, lift the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper edges. Slice into precise squares, revealing the rich, creamy interior, and serve at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture.

Notes

• Choose a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent scorching and ensure even heat distribution during sugar syrup cooking.
• Use a reliable candy thermometer for precise temperature tracking, as reaching the exact soft-ball stage is crucial for perfect fudge texture.
• Avoid stirring the mixture once it starts boiling to prevent sugar crystallization, which can make the fudge grainy.
• Allow the fudge to cool naturally at room temperature for the smoothest, creamiest consistency.
• For a gluten-free version, double-check that all ingredients, especially butterscotch chips, are certified gluten-free.
• Store the fudge in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper to maintain its soft texture and prevent sticking.
• Experiment with different salt types like Himalayan pink salt or flaky Maldon salt for unique flavor variations.
• Create a dairy-free alternative by using coconut cream and dairy-free butter substitutes.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 36
• Calories: 130
• Sugar: 15 g
• Sodium: 60 mg
• Fat: 6 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 19 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg