Maple Syrup Fudge Walnuts (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 2 cups sugar
02 - 1 cup pure maple syrup
03 - 1/2 cup half-and-half, heavy cream, or light cream
04 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
05 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
06 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
07 - 1/2 teaspoon maple extract (optional)
08 - 1/2 cup toasted walnuts, cooled

# Instructions:

01 - Grease an 8-inch square pan or a loaf pan. Line with parchment paper, leaving long sides overhanging to lift the fudge out later.
02 - In a large pot, combine sugar, maple syrup, cream, and butter. Cook on medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture boils.
03 - Insert a candy thermometer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 238°F or 228°F at high altitude. This may take 10–15 minutes.
04 - Take the pot off the heat and remove the candy thermometer. Rinse and dry the thermometer to clean off sugar crystals.
05 - Reinsert the candy thermometer and leave the mixture to cool undisturbed until it reaches 110°F. Do not chill to speed up cooling.
06 - Once cooled, add the vanilla extract, maple extract (if using), and salt. Use a mixer on low speed or a wooden spoon to beat until the mixture loses its gloss and begins to thicken.
07 - Before the mixture gets too thick, stir in the toasted walnuts. Spread the mixture into the prepared pan evenly.
08 - If the mixture becomes too thick, beat in a spoonful of hot water as needed to soften it.
09 - Let the fudge cool completely at room temperature. Once set, lift it out of the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into squares.
10 - Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature.

# Notes:

01 - Use a candy thermometer for precise measurements.
02 - Always use real maple syrup for best flavor.
03 - Follow the instructions carefully for best results.