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.