The moment I took my first bite of Dulce de Leche Fudge, I was transported to a sunlit Brazilian café, surrounded by the tantalizing aroma of sweet confections. This luscious treat embodies the rich, velvety essence of dulce de leche, harmoniously blending with a touch of cinnamon to create something utterly delightful. Imagine sinking your teeth into a truffle that not only melts in your mouth but also brings the familiar joy of churros in a new and exciting way.
What I adore most about this recipe is how effortlessly simple it is—requiring only three ingredients and minimal cooking time, it’s perfect for surprising guests at gatherings or satisfying sweet cravings in a pinch. Whether you coat them in cinnamon-sugar or get creative with nuts or sprinkles, these truffles are as versatile as they are delicious. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s bring a touch of sweetness into our kitchens with these indulgent Dulce de Leche Fudge Truffles!
Why is Dulce de Leche Fudge a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: The rich dulce de leche paired with warm cinnamon creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Effortless Preparation: With just three ingredients, this recipe is quick and easy—perfect for desserts on short notice.
Creative Coating Options: Customize your truffles with nuts, sprinkles, or even coconut for a personalized twist.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: These truffles are sure to impress friends and family alike at any gathering.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare them in advance and store for a delightful snack any time! If you’re curious about more quick treats, check out our easy dessert ideas.
Dulce de Leche Fudge Ingredients
• Each ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting this indulgent treat!
For the Fudge
- Condensed Milk – Essential for a creamy base; sweetened condensed milk is best for that luscious taste.
- Dulce de Leche – Brings a rich, caramel flavor; homemade is recommended for optimal thickness and richness.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds creaminess and prevents sticking during cooking.
For the Coating
- Crystal Sugar – Offers a delightful crunch and sweetness; for a fun twist, consider sprinkles or shredded coconut.
- Cinnamon Powder – Infuses warm spice into the treat, elevating the Dulce de Leche Fudge experience.
Feel free to explore these ingredients and watch as they come together to create a dessert that melts in your mouth!
How to Make Dulce de Leche Fudge
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Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, mix together sweetened condensed milk, dulce de leche, and unsalted butter. Stir over medium heat until the mixture begins to boil, ensuring it doesn’t stick.
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Cook Until Thickened: Lower the heat to medium-low. Keep stirring constantly for about 15 minutes, until the mixture thickens, becomes shiny, and forms a ball when tilted—this is your perfect fudge consistency!
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Cool and Shape: Pour the fudge onto a greased plate and let it cool to room temperature. Once cool, refrigerate for at least 1 hour. After chilling, use greased hands to roll the firm fudge into balls.
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Coat the Truffles: In a bowl, combine crystal sugar and cinnamon. Roll the fudge balls in this mixture until well-coated for that delightful churro-like finish.
Optional: For an extra burst of flavor, add a pinch of vanilla extract to the fudge mixture.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Dulce de Leche Fudge
Fridge: Store your truffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 15 days to maintain their rich flavor and creamy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the truffles in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy your Dulce de Leche Fudge, simply move them to the fridge to thaw for a few hours or overnight for best results.
Reheating: If you prefer a softer texture, you can gently microwave the truffles for about 5-10 seconds. Enjoy them fresh and delightful!
Dulce de Leche Fudge Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions that will make your Dulce de Leche Fudge even more enjoyable!
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Nutty Crunch: Roll the truffles in finely chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, for a delightful crunch that adds texture and flavor.
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Coconut Bliss: Substitute the sugar coating with shredded coconut for a tropical flair that pairs wonderfully with the caramel notes.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a surprising kick that complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Flavor Infusions: Stir in a splash of vanilla or almond extract to the fudge mixture for an aromatic twist that elevates the taste.
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Chocolate Coating: Melt dark chocolate and dip the truffles for a decadent chocolate-covered variation that’s simply irresistible.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Swap unsalted butter with coconut oil and use full-fat coconut milk in place of condensed milk for a creamy treat suitable for dairy-free diets.
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Coffee Lover’s Version: Mix in a teaspoon of instant coffee granules to the fudge for a delightful mocha flavor that will awaken your taste buds.
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Festive Sprinkles: Top the truffles with colorful holiday-themed sprinkles to make them visually stunning for any celebration.
Let your creativity shine and make these truffles uniquely yours!
Make Ahead Options
These Dulce de Leche Fudge Truffles are a fantastic option for those busy weeknights! You can prepare the fudge mixture up to 24 hours in advance—simply follow the cooking instructions and let it cool. Once set in the fridge, roll the fudge into balls, but hold off on coating them until you’re ready to serve to maintain that delightful crunch. If you need to prep even further ahead, the truffles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to allow frozen truffles to thaw in the fridge before rolling in the sugar-cinnamon blend. This way, you’ll enjoy just as delicious treats with minimal effort when cravings strike!
What to Serve with Dulce de Leche Fudge Truffles?
Indulging in these rich, sweet truffles opens up a world of delightful pairings that can elevate your dessert experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a refreshing contrast to the rich fudge, creating a heavenly texture combination.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries introduce a burst of tartness that cuts through the sweetness, balancing out the flavors beautifully.
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Espresso or Coffee: The robust flavor of a good espresso brings out the caramel notes in the dulce de leche, enhancing the whole tasting experience.
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Whipped Cream: Light, airy whipped cream on the side adds a soft creaminess that complements the chewy fudge, making each bite even more delightful.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling a warm chocolate sauce over the truffles intensifies the flavors and adds an extra layer of decadence.
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Coconut Flakes: Rolling the truffles in coconut flakes provides a tropical crunch, transforming the dessert into an exotic treat.
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Hot Chocolate: Treat yourself to a comforting mug of hot chocolate alongside these truffles for a sweet, cozy afternoon snack.
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Nut Assortment: A selection of crunchy nuts can add texture to your dessert plate, offering an enjoyable contrast to the soft fudge inside.
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Mint Tea: A soothing cup of mint tea can cleanse your palate, balancing the sweetness while enhancing the overall experience.
Expert Tips for Dulce de Leche Fudge
• Consistent Stirring: Always stir the mixture continuously while cooking. This prevents burning and ensures your Dulce de Leche Fudge achieves that perfect consistency.
• Timing is Key: Don’t skip the cooling time! If you refrigerate the fudge too long, it may become too hard to shape into truffles.
• Versatile Coatings: Experiment with various coatings like crushed nuts or colorful sprinkles for a personalized touch that appeals to your guests’ taste.
• Storage Solutions: Keep truffles in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 15 days or freeze for two months; just remember to thaw before serving.
• Household Tips: Use a non-stick saucepan to avoid sticking and make the cooking process smoother for your dulce de leche delight!
Dulce de Leche Fudge Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe dulce de leche?
Absolutely! When selecting dulce de leche, look for a thick, creamy consistency and a rich caramel color. If you’re making it at home, simmer sweetened condensed milk for about 2 hours in a covered pot of water. It should have a smooth texture without any lumps or dark spots.
What is the best way to store Dulce de Leche Fudge?
Very! To keep your truffles fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 15 days. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This way, they maintain their delectable flavor and creamy texture.
Can I freeze Dulce de Leche Fudge?
Yes, indeed! For longer storage, freeze the truffles in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or a resealable bag for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply place them in the fridge for several hours or overnight—this prevents them from becoming too soft.
What should I do if my fudge doesn’t thicken properly?
No worries! If your fudge mixture isn’t thickening, you may need to continue cooking over medium-low heat while stirring constantly. Make sure to allow at least 15 minutes for proper cooking. If it still seems too runny, cook for an additional few minutes until it reaches that perfect, shiny consistency.
Are these truffles suitable for people with allergies?
Great question! This dulce de leche fudge contains condensed milk and butter, making it unsuitable for those with dairy allergies. You can explore alternatives such as coconut milk and vegan butter for a dairy-free version, but the texture and flavor may vary.
Can I use alternatives for the coating?
Absolutely! While crystal sugar and cinnamon is a classic choice, you can get creative! Consider using finely chopped nuts, assorted sprinkles, or even shredded coconut for an exciting twist. Just make sure whatever you choose pairs well with the rich flavors of the dulce de leche fudge.
Dulce de Leche Fudge Truffles You’ll Love in Just 3 Steps
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan, mix together sweetened condensed milk, dulce de leche, and unsalted butter. Stir over medium heat until the mixture begins to boil.
- Lower the heat to medium-low and keep stirring constantly for about 15 minutes, until the mixture thickens.
- Pour the fudge onto a greased plate and let it cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- In a bowl, combine crystal sugar and cinnamon. Roll the fudge balls in this mixture until well-coated.