Absolutely! Let’s create a full, rich, and indulgent recipe for Slow Cooker Salted Caramel Fudge with everything you asked for. Here’s a big, detailed version:
Slow Cooker Salted Caramel Fudge
Introduction:
There’s nothing quite like the smooth, creamy decadence of homemade fudge. And when it’s infused with the warm, buttery sweetness of salted caramel, it becomes a treat that is truly irresistible. Using a slow cooker ensures perfectly even heating and a silky texture, making this fudge a foolproof indulgence. Perfect for gifting, sharing, or sneaking a piece (or two) before anyone else notices!
Salted caramel has taken the dessert world by storm, combining the luxurious sweetness of caramel with a subtle hint of salt that enhances every bite. This recipe brings it home, creating a fudge that melts in your mouth and leaves you craving more.
Ingredients:
- 1 tin (395g) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup golden syrup
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 375g white chocolate (I recommend creamy & indulgent varieties like Nestlé Plaistowe)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (plus extra for sprinkling)
- Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for extra depth
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep Your Slow Cooker
- Lightly grease your slow cooker with butter or line it with parchment paper to make removing the fudge easier later.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
- Place the condensed milk, brown sugar, golden syrup, and butter in the slow cooker.
- Stir gently to combine.
Step 3: Cook the Caramel Base
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat.
- Cook for 2–2.5 hours, stirring every 30 minutes. The mixture should be smooth, bubbling, and thickened into a golden caramel.
Step 4: Add Chocolate
- Chop the white chocolate into small pieces.
- Stir it into the hot caramel base. Continue stirring until fully melted and smooth.
Step 5: Salt It
- Add 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (or more to taste).
- Mix well to evenly distribute the salt throughout the fudge.
Step 6: Set and Cool
- Pour the fudge into a parchment-lined baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Sprinkle a little extra sea salt over the top for that perfect salted caramel finish.
- Allow to cool at room temperature for 1–2 hours, then transfer to the fridge to firm up for another 2 hours.
Step 7: Cut and Serve
- Once set, lift the fudge out of the dish using the parchment paper.
- Cut into squares with a sharp knife. Enjoy the creamy, buttery, salty-sweet goodness!
Method & Formation Notes:
- Slow Cooking: This method prevents the sugar from crystallizing and ensures ultra-smooth caramel. Stirring occasionally is key.
- Golden Syrup: Adds a rich, deep flavor and helps with the fudgy texture. If unavailable, light corn syrup can work.
- Chocolate Choice: Using high-quality white chocolate gives a creamier, more luxurious texture. Avoid cheap baking chips as they may not melt as smoothly.
- Salt Layering: Adding salt both inside and on top enhances the caramel flavor and balances the sweetness perfectly.
History & Fun Fact:
Salted caramel was popularized in France by confectioner Pierre Hermé in the 1980s. He realized that a hint of salt amplified the complex flavors of caramel, creating a balance of sweet and savory that has since become a global sensation. Fudge itself dates back to the late 19th century in America, often created as a “sweet mistake” from unsuccessful caramel attempts. Combining these two traditions gives you a modern twist on a nostalgic treat.
Conclusion:
This Slow Cooker Salted Caramel Fudge is creamy, rich, and deeply satisfying. It’s the ultimate comfort treat, perfect for cold evenings, holiday gifts, or any time you need a little sweet indulgence. Once you taste the soft caramel blended with sweet white chocolate and a kiss of salt, you’ll understand why fudge lovers everywhere are obsessed.
Fudge Lovers’ Tip:
- For extra texture: Fold in chopped nuts like pecans or macadamias before pouring into the dish.
- For a boozy twist: Add a tablespoon of rum or bourbon into the caramel stage.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks—if it lasts that long!
If you want, I can also make a step-by-step illustrated version with photos for each stage of the slow cooker salted caramel fudge—it’ll feel like a full recipe book experience.
Do you want me to do that?