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Creamy Irish Cream Fudge Recipe with Rich Caramel Swirls

creamy irish cream fudge - featured image

A rich and creamy fudge infused with Irish cream liqueur and swirled with luscious caramel, perfect for gifting, gatherings, or satisfying your sweet tooth.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2/3 cup evaporated milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup Irish cream liqueur
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar (for caramel)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (for caramel)
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream (for caramel)
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (optional, for salted caramel)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Caramel Swirls: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine 3/4 cup granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir constantly until sugar melts and turns a deep amber color (about 6–8 minutes).
  2. Carefully add 6 tablespoons unsalted butter and stir until melted and combined.
  3. Slowly pour in 1/4 cup heavy cream while stirring; the mixture will bubble upβ€”keep stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon sea salt if using. Set aside to cool slightly but keep it pourable.
  4. Make the Fudge Base: In another saucepan, combine 2 cups granulated sugar, 2/3 cup evaporated milk, 1/4 cup softened butter, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it reaches a gentle boil. Let it boil for 4–5 minutes, stirring frequently.
  5. Remove from heat and immediately stir in 1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
  6. Add 1/2 cup Irish cream liqueur and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, stirring until fully incorporated.
  7. Pour half of the fudge mixture into an 8×8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper.
  8. Drizzle half of the caramel over the fudge, then pour the remaining fudge on top.
  9. Use a butter knife or skewer to gently swirl the caramel through the fudge without overmixing.
  10. Refrigerate the fudge for at least 3 hours or until firm; for best results, chill overnight.
  11. Lift the fudge out using the parchment paper edges and slice into small squares with a sharp knife.

Notes

If caramel thickens before swirling, gently warm it back to a pourable state. Do not rush the chilling step for best texture and slicing ease. Use good-quality white chocolate for best results. Stir constantly when cooking sugar mixtures to avoid burning or crystallization.

Nutrition

Keywords: Irish cream fudge, caramel swirls, creamy fudge, holiday fudge, easy fudge recipe, white chocolate fudge, homemade fudge