5 Easy Carnation Fudge Recipes You'll Love

Carnations are not just beautiful to look at; they also add a unique flavor and scent to various recipes. Their subtle spiciness paired with a mild sweetness can transform any dish, especially homemade confections like fudge. Here, we delve into five simple yet delectable Carnation fudge recipes that are guaranteed to please your palate. Whether you're a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned cook looking for new delights to try, these recipes offer a delicious way to explore the versatility of Carnations in sweets.

Classic Carnation Fudge

If you're just dipping your toes into the world of fudge making, this classic recipe is the perfect place to start.

• Ingredients:
• 1 can (14 oz.) of sweetened condensed milk (Carnation brand preferred)
• 3 cups of white sugar
• 3/4 cup of butter
• 1 jar (7 oz.) of marshmallow crème
• 1 tsp of vanilla extract
• 1 cup of chopped nuts (optional)
• 4 to 5 dried carnation petals (optional)
• Method:
1. Prepare a 9-inch square pan by lining it with foil or parchment paper.
2. In a large saucepan, combine sugar, butter, and Carnation milk. Stir over medium heat until boiling, then reduce to low and cook for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and add marshmallow crème, vanilla, and nuts. Stir until smooth. If using, gently fold in the dried carnation petals.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for 2 hours or until set.
5. Cut into squares and serve or store in an airtight container.

🌸 Note: For a more intense carnation flavor, infuse the Carnation milk with fresh carnation petals for an hour before starting the recipe.

Carnation Chocolate Fudge

Chocoholics, this one's for you. This chocolate fudge recipe is rich, velvety, and infused with carnations for a twist.

• Ingredients:
• 1 can (14 oz.) of sweetened condensed milk (Carnation brand preferred)
• 3 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter
• 1 tsp of vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt
• 4 to 5 dried carnation petals (optional)
• Method:
1. Line a square 8-inch pan with foil or parchment paper.
2. Melt the butter in a saucepan, add the condensed milk, stirring continuously.
3. Once hot, reduce the heat and add chocolate chips, stirring until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
4. Stir in vanilla, salt, and dried carnation petals if desired.
5. Pour into the prepared pan, smooth the top, and refrigerate until set.
6. Cut into squares once firm.

Layered Carnation Caramel Fudge

This recipe adds a sophisticated layer of caramel, creating an irresistible fusion of flavors.

• Ingredients:
• 1 can (14 oz.) of sweetened condensed milk (Carnation brand preferred)
• 2 cups of white sugar
• 1 cup of butter
• 1/2 cup of heavy cream
• 2 cups of caramel chips
• 1 tsp of vanilla extract
• 4 to 5 dried carnation petals (optional)
• Method:
1. Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter with sugar and cream over medium heat. Stir in condensed milk.
3. Cook until the mixture thickens and turns golden. Remove from heat.
4. Divide the mixture in half; add caramel chips to one half, stirring until melted.
5. Pour the white fudge layer into the pan. Pour the caramel layer on top.
6. Swirl gently with a knife for a marbled effect, adding dried carnation petals if desired.
7. Let it cool to room temperature, then chill until firm.

Peanut Butter Carnation Fudge

Combine the creamy texture of peanut butter with the subtle fragrance of carnations for an unbeatable treat.

• Ingredients:
• 1 can (14 oz.) of sweetened condensed milk (Carnation brand preferred)
• 2 cups of peanut butter
• 1/4 cup of unsalted butter
• 2 cups of powdered sugar
• 1 tsp of vanilla extract
• 4 to 5 dried carnation petals (optional)
• Method:
1. Line an 8-inch pan with parchment paper.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine peanut butter and butter. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
3. Stir in condensed milk, then gradually add powdered sugar until smooth. Add vanilla and petals if using.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing the top.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.
6. Slice into squares and enjoy.

Carnation Coconut Fudge

Bring the tropics home with this coconut-rich, carnation-infused fudge.

• Ingredients:
• 1 can (14 oz.) of sweetened condensed milk (Carnation brand preferred)
• 2 cups of white chocolate chips
• 1 cup of shredded coconut (toasted preferred)
• 1/4 cup of unsalted butter
• 1 tsp of vanilla extract
• 4 to 5 dried carnation petals (optional)
• Method:
1. Line a 9-inch square pan with parchment paper.
2. Melt butter in a saucepan, then add condensed milk, stirring continuously.
3. Add chocolate chips, stirring until smooth.
4. Remove from heat, mix in shredded coconut, vanilla, and petals if desired.
5. Pour into the prepared pan, smoothing the top.
6. Allow to cool at room temperature, then chill until set.
7. Cut into squares and serve or store.

These carnation-infused fudge recipes are a testament to the creative ways flowers can enhance our culinary experiences. Not only do carnations bring a touch of beauty to the table, but they also introduce a gentle floral note to the fudges, making them stand out from your usual treats. Whether you're gifting, hosting, or indulging in your own sweet moments, these recipes provide a unique twist that is both delightful and unexpected. The infusion of carnation petals into these recipes adds a layer of sophistication and a hint of old-world charm, making your homemade fudge a culinary centerpiece.

Can I use fresh carnations instead of dried petals?

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Yes, you can use fresh carnations, but make sure to remove the white part at the base of the petals as it can be bitter. Infuse them in the Carnation milk or simmer them gently with other ingredients to extract flavor.

How long will the fudge last?

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If stored in an airtight container, homemade fudge typically lasts for 2 weeks at room temperature or up to a month in the refrigerator. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I replace Carnation milk with another brand?

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While Carnation milk gives these recipes their name, you can use any high-quality sweetened condensed milk brand to achieve similar results.