Velvet Irish Cream Coffee Fudge
Indulge in the rich and creamy delight of Velvet Irish Cream Coffee Fudge, a decadent treat that combines the warm flavors of coffee and the smoothness of Irish cream liquor. This delightful candy, perfect for sharing or enjoying your own, is not only simple to make but also boasts a luxurious texture. With a hint of nuttiness from the chopped hazelnuts, this fudge is ideal for holiday gatherings, special occasions, or as a unique homemade gift. Impress your friends and family with this deliciously decadent confection that will leave them wanting more!
48
Servings
150
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Butter
3/4 cup (unsalted, for melting)
Sugar
3 cups (granulated)
Evaporated Milk
1/3 cup (none)
Irish Cream
1/3 cup (liquor, for flavor)
Instant Coffee
1 tablespoon (for dissolving)
Marshmallow Creme
7 ounces (none)
Vanilla Chips
12 ounces (for melting)
Vanilla Extract
1 teaspoon (pure, for flavor)
Chopped Hazelnuts
1 cup (roasted, for crunch)
Instructions
1
1. Begin by in a microwave-safe cup, heating the Irish cream in the microwave on HIGH for 30 to 45 seconds, until it's hot enough to dissolve the instant coffee. Set aside.
2
2. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
3
3. Once the butter is melted, add the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and the hot Irish cream and coffee mixture. Stir continuously until well combined.
4
4. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a full boil, continuing to stir constantly for a full 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
5
5. Remove the mixture from heat and immediately stir in the vanilla chips until they are completely melted and integrated into the fudge mixture.
6
6. Add the pure vanilla extract and the chopped hazelnuts, stirring well to distribute them evenly throughout the mixture.
7
7. Carefully pour the fudge mixture into a greased 8-inch square pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula.
8
8. Allow the fudge to chill in the refrigerator until it is just set but still soft enough to cut, approximately 1 to 2 hours. Cut into 1-inch squares for serving.
Nutrition Information
7.5g
Fat
22.5g
Carbs
1.25g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Velvet Irish Cream Coffee Fudge?
It is a rich and creamy dessert that combines the flavors of coffee, Irish cream liquor, and vanilla chips into a velvety confection.
What are the primary flavors in this recipe?
The fudge features prominent notes of coffee and smooth Irish cream, complemented by a nutty hazelnut crunch.
How should the Irish cream be prepared?
Heat the Irish cream in a microwave-safe cup on HIGH for 30 to 45 seconds until it is hot enough to dissolve the instant coffee.
How much butter is required for the fudge?
The recipe calls for 3/4 cup of unsalted butter.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
You can use salted butter, but unsalted is preferred to better control the overall flavor profile.
How long does the sugar and milk mixture need to boil?
The mixture must be brought to a full boil and stirred constantly for exactly 5 minutes.
What type of chips are used in this fudge?
The recipe uses 12 ounces of vanilla chips to provide its base flavor and sweetness.
Can white chocolate chips be substituted for vanilla chips?
Yes, white chocolate chips are a suitable substitute for vanilla chips in this recipe.
How many servings does this fudge recipe make?
This recipe makes approximately 48 one-inch squares.
What size pan is recommended for setting the fudge?
An 8-inch square pan is the ideal size for this batch of fudge.
Does the pan need to be prepared before pouring the fudge?
Yes, the pan should be greased to ensure the fudge can be easily removed after it sets.
How long should the fudge chill in the refrigerator?
It should be chilled for 1 to 2 hours until it is set but still soft enough to cut.
Can I use a different type of nut besides hazelnuts?
Yes, you can substitute the chopped hazelnuts with walnuts or pecans if you prefer.
Is there actual coffee in this fudge?
Yes, the recipe includes 1 tablespoon of instant coffee dissolved into the Irish cream.
What type of coffee works best for this recipe?
Instant coffee is best because it dissolves quickly in the hot Irish cream without adding extra liquid.
Can I make an alcohol-free version?
You can substitute the Irish cream with a non-alcoholic Irish cream flavored syrup or extra milk with Irish cream extract.
How should I store the finished fudge?
Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and maintain its texture.
What is the texture of the Velvet Irish Cream Coffee Fudge?
The fudge has a luxurious, smooth, and velvety texture with a light crunch from the nuts.
Can I use sweetened condensed milk instead of evaporated milk?
No, you should use evaporated milk as sweetened condensed milk will make the fudge far too sweet and may affect the set.
What is the purpose of the marshmallow creme?
Marshmallow creme helps give the fudge its characteristic 'velvet' texture and prevents it from becoming too grainy.
How many calories are in one serving of this fudge?
There are approximately 150 calories per serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Most ingredients are gluten-free, but you should verify the labels on your vanilla chips and marshmallow creme.
Can the recipe be doubled?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and use a 9x13 inch pan for a larger batch.
How do I get clean edges when cutting the fudge?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between each cut for the cleanest squares.
Can this fudge be frozen for later?
Yes, wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to three months.
Why is it important to stir the mixture constantly while boiling?
Constant stirring ensures even cooking and prevents the sugar from burning on the bottom of the pan.
Do the hazelnuts need to be roasted?
Roasted hazelnuts are recommended as they provide a deeper flavor and better crunch.
Can I use liquid brewed coffee instead of instant?
It is not recommended, as brewed coffee adds too much moisture which can prevent the fudge from setting properly.
Is this fudge suitable for holiday gifting?
Yes, its decadent flavor and unique combination of ingredients make it a perfect homemade gift.
Can I leave the nuts out?
Yes, the hazelnuts can be omitted if you prefer a completely smooth fudge texture.