Browned Butter Fudge Recipe

Name: Browned Butter Fudge Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 20 pieces
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups brown sugar; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3/4 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3 cups powdered sugar

Highlighted under: Deluxe Baking Inspirations

Experience the rich, nutty flavor of this delightful Browned Butter Fudge that's perfect for the holiday season. Made with simple ingredients, this creamy and decadent treat melts in your mouth, making it a favorite among friends and family. It's the ultimate Christmas treat to share at gatherings or gift in festive tins.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-25T06:17:35.704Z

A Unique Holiday Treat

This Browned Butter Fudge is a unique twist on traditional holiday confections. Unlike regular fudge, the use of browned butter imparts a deeper, more complex flavor profile that enhances the overall taste of the fudge. As the butter cooks, it develops caramelized notes that perfectly complement the sweetness of the sugars. This delightful combination not only elevates simple fudge to a gourmet treat but also makes it an unforgettable addition to your holiday dessert table.

When you present a tin of this fudge to friends and family, you're sharing something truly special. The nutty flavor speaks of time and care, making it an extraordinary gift during the festive season. It's an excellent way to show appreciation for loved ones, and it’s sure to spark joy at any gathering, from cozy family festivities to spirited office parties.

Perfect for Gifting

If you're looking for a sweet gift that stands out, this Browned Butter Fudge is your answer. Not only is it easy to make, but it also looks beautiful when cut into neat squares and presented in decorative tins. Pair it with a festive ribbon or a personalized note, and you have a heartfelt gift that anyone would love to receive. Imagine your friends' delight when they unwrap a delicious surprise that’s both homemade and indulgent.

Additionally, this fudge stores well, making it a fantastic make-ahead option for the busy holiday season. You can whip up a batch and store it in an airtight container for up to two weeks. This allows you to enjoy your holiday festivities without the stress of last-minute baking. Simply pull it out as needed, ensuring you have a tasty treat on hand for guests or those unexpected visits.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best features of this Browned Butter Fudge recipe is its versatility. While it’s delicious as is, you can customize it to suit your taste preferences or to include seasonal flavors. For an added crunch, consider mixing in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts. Alternatively, a sprinkle of sea salt on top can enhance the flavors even further, creating a sweet-salty experience that many fudge lovers adore.

You can also experiment with additional extracts, such as almond or maple, to give your fudge a unique fingerprint. Feeling adventurous? Marbling in swirls of caramel or chocolate can elevate the presentation and taste. This adaptability allows you to create variations that are not only unique but can also cater to different celebrations, whether it’s a Christmas gathering or a birthday party.

Ingredients

Browned Butter Fudge Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups brown sugar
1 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 cups powdered sugar

Mix these ingredients together for a delightful treat!

Instructions

Brown the Butter

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma.

Combine the Sugars

Add brown sugar, granulated sugar, and heavy cream to the browned butter. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth.

Add Flavorings

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.

Incorporate the Powdered Sugar

Gradually add powdered sugar to the mixture, stirring until fully combined and creamy.

Set the Fudge

Pour the fudge mixture into a greased 9x9 inch pan and let it cool completely before cutting into pieces.

Enjoy your homemade Browned Butter Fudge!

Storage Tips

To keep your Browned Butter Fudge fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. If you live in a particularly warm climate, you may want to refrigerate it to avoid any melting. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving to experience the full flavor and texture it offers. Ideally, it should be consumed within two weeks for the best taste, but it can last longer if stored properly.

If you're making fudge for gifting, you can also freeze it! Cut it into squares, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer the squares to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. When you’re ready to give them away, simply let them thaw at room temperature and enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

This Browned Butter Fudge pairs wonderfully with a variety of desserts and drinks. Serve it alongside coffee for an afternoon treat, or enjoy it after a festive dinner. It's also a delightful addition to dessert trays, where it can shine alongside other sweets like cookies or peppermint bark. With its rich and creamy texture, it gives a wonderful contrast to crunchy or fruity desserts.

For a unique experience, consider serving a small piece of fudge on top of warm brownies or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm dessert will slightly melt the fudge, producing a deliciously gooey combination that's hard to resist. This way, you can impress your guests with an elegant twist on traditional dessert pairings.

Why Browned Butter?

Using browned butter in recipes is a fantastic technique that adds depth and complexity to flavors. The process of browning butter involves cooking it until the milk solids turn golden brown, transforming the butter's flavor from simple to nutty and caramel-like. This flavor enhancement makes a significant difference in recipes like fudge, where every ingredient's contribution matters.

Incorporating browned butter not only enriches the taste but also adds a subtle complexity that elevates your dessert beyond expectations. It's this unique element that sets the Browned Butter Fudge apart, making it a conversation starter and a centerpiece at any gathering. Once you try the difference, you’ll likely find yourself using browned butter in all your favorite recipes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but you may want to omit the additional salt in the recipe.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.