Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of rich, creamy fudge with a hint of warmth and spice, this buttered rum fudge is for you! Here’s why it deserves a spot in your holiday dessert lineup:

Irresistible texture – This fudge is smooth, creamy, and melts in your mouth.
Perfectly balanced flavors – The blend of white chocolate, butter, and rum extract creates a luxurious taste.
Easy to make – No complicated techniques or special equipment needed!
Ideal for gifting – Packaged in festive boxes, this makes a wonderful homemade gift.
Customizable – Add nuts, spices, or even a drizzle of caramel for extra indulgence.

For more delicious holiday desserts, check out these festive holiday desserts for inspiration!

Ingredients Breakdown & Their Roles

Every ingredient in this buttered rum fudge plays a crucial role in achieving its signature texture and flavor.

Essential Ingredients

2 cups white sugar – Provides sweetness and structure.
½ cup unsalted butter – Creates a rich, buttery texture.
½ cup heavy cream – Ensures a soft and creamy consistency.
½ cup sweetened condensed milk – Adds richness while preventing crystallization. Learn more about the role of condensed milk in sweets.
1 ½ cups white chocolate chips – The key to a smooth and velvety fudge. Learn more about what is white chocolate.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavors and aroma.
¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and intensifies the flavors.
½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional) – Adds a touch of warmth to complement the rum extract.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring overhang on the sides for easy removal.

Step 2: Cook the Sugar Mixture

In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, butter, heavy cream, and sweetened condensed milk.
Heat over medium heat, stirring continuously until it reaches a gentle boil.

Step 3: Simmer and Stir

Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.

Step 4: Add the Flavorings

Remove from heat and immediately stir in vanilla extract, salt, and white chocolate chips.
Stir until completely smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Pour and Set

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Let it cool at room temperature for 30 minutes before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.

Step 6: Cut and Serve

Once fully set, lift the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper.
Use a sharp knife to cut into small squares.

For more homemade candy ideas, check out these creative homemade candy ideas!

Expert Tips for Perfect Buttered Rum Fudge

Use a candy thermometer – Ensures the sugar mixture reaches the right temperature for a smooth texture.
Stir constantly – Prevents grainy fudge and ensures even cooking.
Let it set fully before cutting – Cutting too soon may cause a sticky texture.
Store properly – Use an airtight container to keep the fudge fresh for longer.

Variations & Customizations

Want to experiment with your buttered rum fudge? Try these delicious variations:

Dark Chocolate Version

Swap white chocolate chips for dark chocolate to create a richer, slightly bitter fudge.

Nutty Fudge

Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts before pouring the mixture into the dish.

Spiced Rum Variation

Replace rum extract with spiced rum for a stronger boozy kick.

Boozy Fudge

Add 1 tablespoon of real rum, but be sure to mix it in at the very end to prevent the alcohol from evaporating.

Looking for more easy baking recipes? Check out easy baking recipes to try!

How to Store & Freeze Buttered Rum Fudge

Short-Term Storage

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
For a firmer texture, keep it in the refrigerator.

Long-Term Storage

Freeze individual pieces by wrapping them in wax paper and placing them in a zip-top bag.
Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Thawing Instructions

Let the fudge sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

Want more edible gift ideas? Check out creative edible gift ideas!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use Real Rum Instead of Rum Extract?

Yes! If you prefer a boozier fudge, replace rum extract with 1 tablespoon of dark or spiced rum. However, alcohol can affect the setting process, so add it at the very end and mix well.

What If My Fudge Doesn’t Set Properly?

If your fudge is too soft, it may not have been cooked long enough. Make sure you simmer the mixture for at least 5 minutes and allow it to fully cool before cutting.

Can I Double the Recipe?

Absolutely! Simply double all the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan instead of an 8×8-inch pan.

Is There a Way to Make It Dairy-Free?

Yes! Swap the following ingredients:

Use dairy-free butter.
Replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk.
Use dairy-free white chocolate chips.

What’s the Best Way to Cut Fudge Neatly?

For clean, professional-looking squares:

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts.
Run the knife under hot water before slicing for smooth edges.

Creamy Buttered Rum Fudge

Print Recipe

Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of Buttered Rum Fudge! This homemade fudge is packed with the warm, caramelized flavors of butter, white chocolate, and rum extract, creating a melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s perfect for the holidays. Whether you’re gifting it to loved ones, serving it at a festive gathering, or enjoying a cozy night in, this fudge is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet cravings.

With its smooth texture and hint of cinnamon, this recipe is both easy to make and incredibly decadent. No need for complicated techniques—just simple ingredients and a few easy steps to create a batch of irresistible buttered rum fudge. Make this once, and it’ll become a holiday tradition!

Author: Clara

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups white sugar
½ cup unsalted butter
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup sweetened condensed milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
1 ½ cups white chocolate chips
½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for warmth)

Instructions

Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and set aside.
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, butter, heavy cream, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a boil.
Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, salt, and white chocolate chips. Mix until smooth.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
Let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until fully set.
Once firm, cut into squares and serve.

Notes

For a stronger rum flavor – Replace rum extract with 1 tablespoon of dark or spiced rum, but add it at the end to preserve its taste.
For a firmer texture – Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting.
If the fudge is too soft – Ensure you cook the sugar mixture for at least 5 minutes or use a candy thermometer to reach the right consistency.
To make dairy-free – Use coconut milk, dairy-free butter, and dairy-free white chocolate chips as substitutes.
For easy removal – Line your pan with parchment paper and leave extra overhang for lifting out the fudge.
For clean cuts – Run a sharp knife under hot water before slicing.
Storage tip – Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.

Let me know if you need any adjustments! 😊

Creamy Buttered Rum Fudge

Why You’ll Love This Recipe