This easy butterscotch fudge recipe requires little time to make and will leave Christmas guests begging for more.
The word butterscotch evokes images of tiny gold candies slipping out of the toe of red Christmas stockings. So what could be more appropriate for the holidays than a batch of butterscotch fudge? Gather a few simple ingredients, turn up the carols, and let it simmer!
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Serves 10-12
Ingredients
- ½ C butter
- 1 ½ C white sugar
- 5 ounces of evaporated milk
- 7-ounce jar of marshmallow cream
- 12-ounce package of butterscotch chips (Nestlé Tollhouse produces quality baking chips)
- ½ C chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1 tsp vanilla
Butterscotch Christmas Fudge Recipe
- Begin by buttering a 9 x 11-inch dish. Set the buttered dish in the freezer to chill while preparing the fudge. Chop the nuts and set them aside.
- Melt ½ C of butter in a deep skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sugar. When the butter is melted, pour in the evaporated milk. Immediately add the marshmallow cream. Beat the ingredients in slow rhythmic strokes until the marshmallow cream dissolves. The mixture should be smooth and creamy. Keep the cream at a low boil over medium heat for five to seven minutes. Stir constantly. Brown streaks should begin to appear.
- Consistency is important at this point. The ideal batch should feel smooth and thick with no hint of graininess. If cooking at a high altitude the cream will take longer to reach a boil. If the creamy mixture begins to sugar, remove it from the heat at once. If brown streaks appear but the mixture is thin, cook for another two to three minutes.
- After removing from the heat, stir in the package of butterscotch chips. Keep blending until the chips are thoroughly melted. Add the chopped nuts and coat them well. Stir in a teaspoon of vanilla. Empty the fudge into the chilled, buttered dish. Spread the butterscotch into an even layer with a spatula or spoon. Then place the dish in a cool corner for an hour or more.
- Butterscotch fudge is typically softer than its chocolate counterpart so it may require additional time to set. Chill both fudge and knife before cutting for best results.
- Presto! Butterscotch fudge is ready to serve with a cup of coffee.
Holiday tip: One or two-inch squares are the best sizes for this rich dessert. The fudge goes further and even those watching their waistlines will allow themselves a small morsel of this toothsome decadence during the holidays.
Variations on the Best Butterscotch Christmas Fudge
Try classic chocolate fudge, peanut butter fudge, or mint chocolate fudge in a variation on this delicious holiday recipe.