Warm, soft butted rum fudge brings together creamy fudge and a buttery rum taste that feels like a snug hug during winter holidays . It’s perfect for family parties or just as a sweet gift for friends .
This twist on old-fashioned fudge gives you familiar flavor with a fun kick . The buttered rum adds a cosy, sorta old-time feel , yet it still tastes fresh . Regular fudge can be too sweet , but this version hits a nice balance of rich and sweet that everyone enjoys .

History of Fudge
Fudge began in the late 1800s in America , though nobody knows exactly who made the first batch . The word “fudge” might come from a flub in cooking caramel that turned into a gooey candy . People shared early recipes in letters and old cookbooks , then fudge grew popular at dances and tea socials .
During the holidays , families would all gather in the kitchen to stir sugar and butter . That’s when folks started mixing in new flavors like vanilla , chocolate , and eventually buttered rum . Every home made its own style , so fudge became a part of many holiday memories .
Buttered rum especially caught on because the warm taste of rum and butter felt extra nice on cold nights . Mixing that flavor into fudge made a bridge from old traditions to new dessert ideas .
What is Buttered Rum Fudge?
Buttered rum fudge is a smooth candy that tastes both sweet and slightly warm from the rum . It’s softer than blocky fudge and it kind of melts in your mouth . You taste the butter first , then a gentle rum note comes through .
Compared to plain fudge , this one isn’t just sugar-heavy . The butter gives depth and the rum adds a small bit of spice . Together they balance each other . That makes it good for people who think regular fudge is too much .
It’s great for holiday parties , movie nights by the fire , or giving in little boxes to friends and family . Its fancy look and tasty mix make it a top pick for celebrations .

Benefits of Making Fudge at Home
Whipping up buttered rum fudge in your own kitchen has perks . You save money , you pick your own ingredients , and you can tweak flavors any way you want .
Cost-Effective
Store-bought fudge can cost a lot , especially good brands . At home , you might already have sugar , butter , and cream . Buying in bulk makes it even cheaper .
You also control quality . Use real butter and top-grade cream for the best taste and texture . If you need dairy-free or gluten-free , you can swap in your own products .
Creative Control
Home fudge means you can add nuts , dried fruit , or sea salt for a little crunch . Try different extracts or even swirl in chocolate chips . If you’re vegan , swap to plant-based butter and milk . You’re in charge of every choice .
Essential Ingredients for Buttered Rum Fudge
Gather these basics before you start :
- Sugar – granulated, the main sweetener .
- Butter – unsalted gives you more control .
- Heavy Cream – for that melt-in-your-mouth feel .
- Buttered Rum Extract or Real Rum – the star flavor .
- Chocolate Chips (optional) – if you want a chocоlate twist .
- Vanilla Extract (optional) – adds depth .
- Pinch of Salt – cuts the sweetness and boosts flavor .
Detailed Recipe for Buttered Rum Fudge
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon buttered rum flavoring or 2 tablespoons rum
- 2 cups chocolate chips (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Directions
- Line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal .
- In a saucepan , mix sugar , butter , and cream over medium heat .
- Stir until it reaches a rolling boil .
- Let it boil for 3–5 minutes without stirring .
- Take off heat and fold in buttered rum extract or rum .
- Optional: stir in chocolate chips and vanilla .
- Pour into the dish and smooth with a spatula .
- Let cool at room temp until set , then cut into squares .
Helpful Tips for Perfect Fudge
- Use a candy thermometer to hit the right temp .
- Stir slowly so you don’t add too much air .
- Keep fudge in an airtight container so it stays soft .
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with Drinks: hot coffee or cocoa make it taste even better .
- Gift Ideas: put squares in pretty boxes with ribbons .
- Mix-Ins: crumble over ice cream or sprinkle on a dessert board .
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking
Too much heat makes fudge grainy and hard to cut . Watch the timer closely .
Skipping the Set Time
If you cut too soon , it’ll be gooey . Let it cool fully for clean pieces .
Storage and Shelf Life of Buttered Rum Fudge
- Room Temp: keep in airtight box away from sunlight .
- Freezing: wrap well in plastic then bag it , thaw in fridge .
- Spoiled Signs: bad smell or odd texture means toss it .
FAQs
Can I use rum extract instead of buttered rum? Yes , but the taste may differ a bit .
My fudge didn’t set . What now? Maybe it needed more cooking time . Warm gently and boil longer .
Do I need chocolate? No , it’s tasty plain . Add chips only if you like .
How long does it last? Up to two weeks in a box , longer in the freezer .
Can I add nuts? Sure—walnuts or pecans work great .
Is it good for gifts? Definitely . It feels fancy and homemade .
Conclusion
Buttered rum fudge brings cozy holiday vibes and old-meets-new flavors. Try making a batch and share your tweaks in the comments—everyone loves a tasty twist .

Buttered Rum Fudge
Equipment
- 1 medium saucepan
- 1 candy thermometer
- 1 8-inch square baking dish
- 1 parchment paper (optional for easy removal)
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter 2 sticks
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup brown sugar Packed
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup dark rum
- 1 cup chopped nuts Optional, such as walnuts or pecans
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
- Line the 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. If you don’t have parchment paper, lightly grease the dish with butter.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, corn syrup, and salt.
- Stir the mixture until it is well combined and starts to boil. Attach the candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan, ensuring it does not touch the bottom.
- Continue to cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it reaches the soft-ball stage (234°F to 240°F).
- Once at the desired temperature, remove the saucepan from the heat. Allow the mixture to cool for about 5 minutes.
- After it has cooled slightly, add the vanilla extract and dark rum. If using nuts, fold them in now.
- Beat the fudge mixture vigorously with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula until it thickens and begins to lose its shine (approximately 5-7 minutes).
- Pour the fudge into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with the spatula.
- Allow the fudge to set at room temperature for at least 2 hours or until firm.
- Once set, lift the fudge out of the dish using the parchment overhang and cut it into squares.




