Are you ready to take your fudge game to the next level?

If you’ve never tried maple bacon fudge, you’re in for a real treat! This indulgent dessert combines two of the most irresistible flavors – rich, sweet maple syrup and crispy, salty bacon – into one smooth, creamy fudge that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Whether you’re a longtime fudge lover or you’re just looking to try something new, this recipe is a fun and delicious twist on a classic treat.

Today, we’ll walk you through the easy steps to making maple bacon fudge, along with tips to perfect the texture and flavor.

Let’s get started!

Ingredients Needed for Maple Bacon Fudge

To make this delicious maple bacon fudge, you don’t need much—just a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Maple Syrup: Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor. The richness of the maple syrup is what makes this fudge stand out!
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This gives the fudge its creamy texture and provides the right sweetness without being overwhelming.
Butter: Adds smoothness and helps with the fudge’s texture.
Bacon: Crisped and crumbled bacon is the key to the salty aspect of the fudge. Choose thick-cut bacon for the best results.
Vanilla Extract: This adds a hint of flavor that enhances the maple and bacon combination.
Powdered Sugar: This helps thicken the fudge and gives it that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Salt: A pinch of salt helps to balance the sweetness and bring out the flavors in the bacon and maple.

Optional add-ins: Pecans or walnuts (for crunch), a drizzle of chocolate (for extra richness), or a dash of cinnamon for a seasonal twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, here’s how to make this irresistible treat!

Cook the Bacon:
- Start by cooking the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the pan, let it cool, and chop it into small pieces.
Prepare the Fudge Base:
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the sweetened condensed milk and maple syrup, stirring constantly. Allow the mixture to heat up but not boil.
Add the Sugar:
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Mix in the Bacon and Vanilla:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the crumbled bacon and vanilla extract. The bacon will add a savory crunch to the fudge, and the vanilla will enhance the overall flavor.
Chill the Fudge:
- Pour the fudge mixture into a parchment-lined 8×8 inch pan. Spread it out evenly and press it down to ensure it’s smooth. Place the pan in the fridge and allow it to chill for at least 4 hours, or until the fudge is set.
Slice and Serve:
- Once the fudge has hardened, remove it from the pan and cut it into small squares. Enjoy the sweet and salty goodness!

Tips for Perfecting the Flavor and Texture

To make sure your maple bacon fudge turns out just right, keep these tips in mind:

Use Quality Maple Syrup: The type of maple syrup you use makes a big difference. Opt for pure maple syrup (not imitation) to achieve that authentic, rich flavor.
Crisp the Bacon Just Right: Make sure your bacon is crispy but not burnt. The texture of crispy bacon complements the smooth fudge perfectly.
Control the Heat: When making the fudge base, avoid letting the mixture boil. You want it to melt and combine smoothly without separating.
Consistency: If your fudge is too soft, you can add a little more powdered sugar to thicken it. If it’s too firm, add a bit more sweetened condensed milk to soften the texture.

Variations and Creative Twists

If you’re looking to get creative, there are a few fun twists you can try:

Add a Boozy Kick: Add a tablespoon of bourbon or maple liqueur to give your fudge a rich, adult flavor. The maple and bacon will still shine, but with a hint of warmth from the alcohol.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the top for an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful presentation.
Nuts for Crunch: Add some chopped pecans or walnuts for additional crunch and flavor. The nuts pair perfectly with the bacon.
Seasonal Spices: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the fudge mixture for a cozy, fall-inspired treat!

Storing and Serving Maple Bacon Fudge

To keep your maple bacon fudge fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

If you want to keep it for longer, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze the fudge in a sealed container for up to 3 months.

Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving!

For a fun twist, try serving this fudge with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of bourbon.

It also makes for an excellent homemade gift when wrapped in decorative paper or placed in a gift box.

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I make maple bacon fudge without a candy thermometer?

Yes! A candy thermometer is not necessary for this recipe, but it’s important to monitor the temperature closely. Just make sure not to bring the mixture to a boil, as that can cause it to separate.

Can I freeze maple bacon fudge?

Yes! You can freeze maple bacon fudge for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container.

Can I use turkey bacon or another alternative?

Yes! You can substitute turkey bacon or any other bacon alternative you prefer. However, turkey bacon may not crisp up as well as regular bacon, so be sure to cook it thoroughly to get that crunchy texture.