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Christmas Dried Fruit and Spice Fudge Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 103 reviews
  • Author: Cleo
  • Total Time: 12 hours 35 minutes
  • Yield: 36 bite-sized pieces 1x

Description

This classic Christmas fudge recipe is a rich, creamy treat made with golden caster sugar, double cream, butter, and infused with festive flavors like mixed spice, vanilla bean, and zesty orange. Loaded with mixed dried fruit and peel, this indulgent fudge is perfect for holiday gifting or enjoying as a sweet seasonal snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Fudge Base

  • 450g golden caster sugar
  • 400g double cream
  • 50g butter
  • 1 tbsp glucose syrup

Flavorings

  • 1 tbsp vanilla bean paste
  • ½ tsp mixed spice
  • 100g mixed dried fruit and peel
  • 1 orange, zested
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the tin: Line a 20 x 20cm cake tin with baking parchment to ensure easy removal of the fudge once set.
  2. Dissolve sugar and melt butter: In a large pan, combine the golden caster sugar, double cream, butter, and glucose syrup. Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the butter melts completely.
  3. Boil the syrup: Insert a sugar thermometer ensuring the bulb is fully covered by the syrup. If necessary, transfer to a smaller pan suitable for boiling. Increase heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Reach soft ball stage: Continue boiling until the thermometer registers 116°C (soft ball stage), then remove the pan from the heat.
  5. Cool slightly and add flavorings: Let the mixture stand undisturbed for 5 minutes until it cools to 110°C. Stir in the vanilla bean paste, mixed spice, mixed dried fruit and peel, orange zest, and a pinch of salt.
  6. Beat the fudge: Remove the thermometer and vigorously beat the mixture with a wooden spoon. Monitor temperature frequently, continuing to beat until it drops to about 60°C. The fudge will thicken and lose its glossy shine.
  7. Final mixing: Remove the thermometer and continue beating for a few more minutes to develop a smooth, creamy texture by forming small sugar crystals.
  8. Set the fudge: Quickly pour the mixture into the prepared tin, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Leave to cool overnight at room temperature. Avoid refrigeration to prevent stickiness and improper setting.
  9. Serve and store: Once set, cut into 36 bite-sized pieces. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two months.

Notes

  • Use a sugar thermometer for precise temperature control to achieve perfect fudge texture.
  • Do not refrigerate the fudge as it can become sticky and won’t set properly.
  • Vigorous beating is essential to create the characteristic smooth, creamy texture.
  • Glucose syrup prevents crystallization and helps achieve a soft fudge consistency.
  • Adjust dried fruit according to preference for added texture and flavor variation.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: British

Keywords: Christmas fudge, holiday sweets, festive fudge, creamy fudge, golden caster sugar fudge, vanilla bean fudge, homemade fudge

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Find it online: https://cleobrixton.com/christmas-dried-fruit-and-spice-fudge-recipe/