Indulging in a piece of Buttered Rum Fudge is like experiencing a bite of pure decadence. This rich, creamy treat perfectly balances the sweetness of white chocolate with the warm, spiced notes of buttered rum. Whether you’re preparing it for the holidays, gifting it to loved ones, or simply treating yourself, this homemade fudge is a must-try for any dessert enthusiast.

The origins of fudge date back to the late 19th century when it was accidentally created by a college student attempting to make caramel [source]. Over time, fudge evolved into various flavors, with the addition of buttered rum bringing a luxurious, boozy twist to this classic confection. The combination of buttered rum and fudge has gained popularity, especially during the festive season, making it a staple treat in many households.

One of the key elements that sets Buttered Rum Fudge apart is its incredibly smooth texture, achieved through the use of white chocolate chips and marshmallow creme. Unlike traditional fudge, which can sometimes turn grainy, this recipe ensures a melt-in-your-mouth consistency. Another advantage? It’s easy to make at home with just a few essential ingredients. If you’re a fan of unique holiday fudge recipes, you might also love browsing Pinterest’s collection of fudge variations for more inspiration.

Are you a fan of classic fudge, or do you enjoy a boozy twist like this one? Let’s dive into what makes this sweet treat so irresistible!

The History of Buttered Rum & Fudge

The rich flavors of buttered rum and fudge each have their own fascinating histories before they came together in this irresistible treat. Understanding their origins helps us appreciate why Buttered Rum Fudge has become a beloved dessert, especially during the colder months and holiday seasons.

The Origins of Buttered Rum

The story of buttered rum dates back to colonial America, where early settlers brought rum from the Caribbean and combined it with butter, sugar, and spices to create a comforting, warm beverage. This drink became especially popular in the 17th and 18th centuries, not only as a winter warmer but also as a remedy for colds and other ailments.

Buttered rum was commonly enjoyed in taverns and colonial homes, particularly in New England, where rum production flourished.
The drink typically included dark rum, brown sugar, butter, and a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, giving it a distinctive rich and spiced flavor.
Over time, buttered rum became associated with holiday traditions, much like eggnog and hot cocoa.

Today, variations of buttered rum continue to be enjoyed, both as a warm beverage and as a flavor infusion in desserts like cakes, cookies, and, of course, fudge. If you’re interested in the history of this comforting drink, you can explore more about hot buttered rum here.

How Fudge Became a Classic Dessert

Unlike the long history of buttered rum, fudge is a relatively modern creation. It is believed to have originated in the late 19th century when a batch of caramel was mistakenly overcooked, resulting in a soft, sugary confection. This “fudged” batch led to the name fudge, and the mistake quickly became a popular treat among college students and confectioners.

The first documented recipe for fudge appeared in 1886, with early versions using sugar, butter, and milk.
Fudge-making gained popularity in women’s colleges, particularly at Vassar College, where students experimented with different flavors and techniques.
By the early 20th century, commercial candy makers began mass-producing fudge, leading to the variety of flavors available today.

For a deeper look at how fudge became a favorite confection, check out this detailed history of fudge and its variations.

The Fusion of Buttered Rum & Fudge

Bringing together buttered rum and fudge was a natural evolution in dessert-making. The rich, buttery texture of fudge pairs perfectly with the warm, spiced notes of buttered rum, creating a treat that is both nostalgic and indulgent.

Buttered Rum Fudge likely gained popularity through homemade holiday recipes, as families looked for unique twists on classic fudge.
The addition of rum extract or dark rum adds a deep, aromatic quality without overwhelming the sweetness.
Today, Buttered Rum Fudge is a seasonal favorite, often made for Christmas, Thanksgiving, and winter celebrations.

If you enjoy boozy desserts, you might also love browsing Pinterest’s collection of boozy treats for more ideas.

With its rich history and festive appeal, it’s no wonder that Buttered Rum Fudge has become a cherished favorite. Now, let’s explore why this particular fudge recipe stands out from the rest!

Why You’ll Love This Buttered Rum Fudge

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, Buttered Rum Fudge is a perfect choice. This indulgent treat combines the smooth texture of white chocolate with the warm, spiced notes of buttered rum, making it a must-try for any fudge lover.

1. Easy to Make with Simple Ingredients

One of the biggest reasons to love Buttered Rum Fudge is how easy it is to prepare. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a homemade fudge that rivals any gourmet confectionery. Unlike traditional fudge, which requires precision and patience, this recipe is beginner-friendly and doesn’t involve complicated techniques.

No special equipment needed – While a candy thermometer helps ensure the perfect consistency, it’s not required if you use the soft-ball stage test.
Quick preparation – From start to finish, the fudge takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, with minimal active work.
Minimal ingredients – Most ingredients are common pantry staples, making it an easy last-minute treat.

If you love making simple homemade fudge, you might enjoy browsing Pinterest’s collection of easy fudge recipes for more inspiration.

2. Perfect for Holidays & Gifting

There’s something special about gifting homemade treats during the holidays, and Buttered Rum Fudge is no exception. The luxurious texture and rich flavor make it an ideal choice for sharing with family and friends.

Festive flavors – The buttered rum essence evokes the warm, comforting taste of winter holidays.
Great for gifting – Packaged in a decorative tin or wrapped in cellophane, this fudge makes a beautiful homemade gift.
Crowd-pleaser – Whether at a Christmas party or Thanksgiving gathering, this fudge is sure to impress.

If you’re looking for creative ways to package homemade food gifts, check out Pinterest’s collection of giftable homemade treats.

3. Boozy Flavor Without the Alcohol

While traditional buttered rum contains actual rum, this fudge gets its signature flavor from rum extract, allowing you to enjoy the taste without the alcohol content. This makes it a family-friendly treat that’s suitable for all ages.

Rum extract vs. real rum – Using rum extract provides the same deep, spiced flavor without adding extra liquid.
Kid-friendly and non-alcoholic – Unlike boozy desserts that contain liquor, this fudge is safe for everyone to enjoy.
Customizable for adults – If you prefer a more authentic buttered rum experience, you can substitute dark rum for the extract.

To learn more about how white chocolate enhances the texture and flavor of fudge, you can explore this in-depth look at white chocolate.

4. Smooth, Creamy & Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture

One of the standout features of this fudge is its ultra-creamy consistency. Unlike some fudges that turn grainy or dry, this recipe stays smooth and velvety thanks to a combination of:

White chocolate chips – Adds a rich, buttery texture.
Marshmallow creme – Helps create a soft, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
Heavy cream & butter – Ensures a luxuriously smooth finish.

By using the right balance of fats and sugars, this fudge remains creamy and decadent without becoming overly sweet.

With its easy preparation, rich holiday flavors, and perfectly smooth texture, Buttered Rum Fudge is a dessert you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re gifting it to loved ones or treating yourself, this fudge is guaranteed to be a favorite.

Are you ready to try making Buttered Rum Fudge? Let’s dive into the ingredients breakdown and step-by-step

Ingredients Breakdown & Substitutions

To achieve the perfect Buttered Rum Fudge, every ingredient plays a crucial role in creating its rich flavor and creamy texture. Below, we’ll break down each component and explore possible substitutions for those with dietary preferences or ingredient limitations.

1. Key Ingredients & Their Roles

White Sugar (2 cups) – Provides the sweetness and structure of the fudge. Granulated sugar is preferred as it dissolves evenly when heated.
Unsalted Butter (½ cup) – Adds a rich, creamy texture while enhancing the overall flavor. Unsalted butter allows better control over the saltiness of the fudge.
Heavy Cream (½ cup) – Ensures the fudge remains smooth and soft by preventing crystallization. It also contributes to the luxurious mouthfeel.
Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the sweetness and complements the buttered rum flavor.
Rum Extract (½ teaspoon) – Provides the signature buttered rum taste without adding alcohol. If using real rum, a small adjustment in sugar may be needed to maintain the consistency.
Salt (¼ teaspoon) – Balances the sweetness and deepens the flavor. A pinch of sea salt can elevate the taste even more.
White Chocolate Chips (2 cups) – Helps create the smooth texture of the fudge while adding a subtle richness.
Marshmallow Creme (1 cup) – Acts as a stabilizer, ensuring the fudge remains soft and melt-in-your-mouth.

For more insight into how white chocolate affects fudge consistency, check out this guide on white chocolate.

2. Ingredient Substitutions

Whether you’re looking for a dairy-free, vegan, or alcoholic alternative, here are some great ingredient swaps:

Dairy-Free & Vegan Options

Butter Alternative: Use vegan butter or coconut oil for a non-dairy version.
Heavy Cream Substitute: Swap for coconut cream or cashew cream to maintain the creamy texture.
White Chocolate Alternative: Use dairy-free white chocolate (available in specialty stores or online).
Marshmallow Creme Replacement: Opt for vegan marshmallow fluff made from aquafaba.

Alcoholic Variation

If you want a boozier version of Buttered Rum Fudge, you can replace the rum extract with real dark rum. However, since liquid affects the consistency, follow these adjustments:

Use 1 tablespoon of dark rum instead of ½ teaspoon of rum extract.
Reduce the heavy cream by 1 tablespoon to compensate for the extra liquid.

For more ideas on incorporating alcohol into desserts, check out Pinterest’s boozy dessert collection.

3. Choosing the Best Ingredients for the Perfect Fudge

Use high-quality white chocolate chips to ensure a smooth melt.
Opt for pure vanilla extract instead of imitation for a more authentic flavor.
Fresh marshmallow creme works best; avoid old or hardened marshmallow fluff.
If using real rum, choose a high-quality dark or spiced rum for deeper flavor.

By carefully selecting your ingredients, you can ensure a perfectly smooth, flavorful, and decadent Buttered Rum Fudge. Now that we have all the ingredients covered, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions to make this delicious treat!

Step-by-Step Instructions with Tips

Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s dive into making Buttered Rum Fudge. Follow these simple steps to create a perfectly smooth, creamy, and flavorful treat. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, these instructions and tips will help ensure success.

1. Prepare Your Baking Dish

Before you begin, prepare your 8-inch square baking dish:
✔ Line it with parchment paper, ensuring some overhang on the sides. This makes it easier to lift the fudge out later.
✔ Lightly grease the parchment with butter to prevent sticking.

💡 Tip: If you don’t have parchment paper, you can use aluminum foil or lightly butter the dish directly, but parchment paper makes for cleaner removal.

2. Heat the Sugar, Butter, and Cream

In a medium saucepan over medium heat:
✔ Combine 2 cups of white sugar, ½ cup unsalted butter, and ½ cup heavy cream.
✔ Stir constantly until the butter melts and the sugar fully dissolves.
✔ Continue heating until the mixture begins to boil.

💡 Tip: Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to ensure even heating and prevent scorching.

3. Bring to Soft-Ball Stage (234°F / 112°C)

✔ Once boiling, continue cooking for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
✔ Use a candy thermometer to check the temperature. When it reaches 234°F (112°C), remove it from the heat.

❗ No thermometer? Do the soft-ball test: Drop a small spoonful of the hot mixture into cold water—if it forms a soft, pliable ball, it’s ready.

💡 Tip: Avoid overcooking! If the temperature goes too high, the fudge can become grainy instead of smooth.

4. Add Flavor Enhancers: Vanilla, Rum Extract, and Salt

✔ Immediately after removing from heat, stir in:

1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon rum extract
¼ teaspoon salt

✔ Mix quickly to evenly distribute the flavors.

💡 Tip: If using real rum instead of extract, be sure to adjust the cream quantity slightly as noted in the ingredients section.

5. Melt White Chocolate & Marshmallow Creme

✔ Add 2 cups of white chocolate chips and 1 cup of marshmallow creme to the hot mixture.
✔ Stir vigorously until everything melts completely and the mixture becomes smooth.

💡 Tip: If the chocolate isn’t melting fully, place the saucepan back on low heat for 30 seconds, stirring continuously until smooth.

If you’re interested in understanding how white chocolate affects the texture of fudge, you can explore more in this Wikipedia guide on white chocolate.

6. Pour and Spread the Fudge

✔ Immediately pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
✔ Use a spatula or butter knife to spread it evenly.

💡 Tip: For a flawless top surface, lightly tap the pan on the counter to release any air bubbles.

7. Let the Fudge Set

✔ Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for 2 hours or until firm.
✔ For faster setting, place it in the refrigerator for 1 hour.

💡 Tip: Avoid the freezer! Rapid cooling can cause the fudge to develop a grainy texture instead of staying smooth.

8. Cut and Serve

✔ Once fully set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan.
✔ Cut into small squares using a sharp knife warmed under hot water for clean slices.

💡 Tip: Wipe the knife clean between cuts for smooth, professional-looking fudge pieces.

Now you have a batch of Buttered Rum Fudge—smooth, creamy, and packed with rich flavor! Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just indulging in a sweet treat, these step-by-step instructions ensure perfect fudge every time.

If you love experimenting with different fudge recipes, check out Pinterest’s collection of easy fudge recipes for more inspiration.

Now that you’ve mastered the basic recipe, let’s explore some delicious flavor variations and creative twists!

Flavor Variations & Creative Twists

While Buttered Rum Fudge is already a decadent, crowd-pleasing treat, you can easily customize it with different flavors and mix-ins. Whether you want a richer chocolate version, a nutty crunch, or a spicier kick, these variations will help you put your own unique twist on the classic recipe.

1. Classic Buttered Rum Fudge (No White Chocolate)

For a traditional buttered rum flavor, you can omit the white chocolate chips and slightly adjust the ingredients:

✔ Increase marshmallow creme to 1½ cups for a creamier texture.
✔ Add an extra tablespoon of butter for more richness.
✔ Use dark brown sugar instead of white sugar to deepen the caramel notes.

💡 Tip: This version will have a more pronounced buttered rum taste with a softer, slightly chewy texture.

2. Dark Chocolate Buttered Rum Fudge

Want a deeper chocolate flavor? Swap white chocolate for dark chocolate chips (or semi-sweet). This creates a more intense, rich fudge while keeping the signature buttered rum essence.

✔ Use 2 cups of dark chocolate chips instead of white chocolate.
✔ Add ½ teaspoon of instant espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
✔ Reduce butter slightly (to 6 tablespoons) to balance the richness.

💡 Tip: Dark chocolate provides a less sweet, more sophisticated version of this fudge.

If you’re interested in learning more about how different chocolates affect confections, check out this detailed article on confectionery and chocolate varieties.

3. Nutty Buttered Rum Fudge (Pecan or Walnut)

For a crunchy texture and nutty depth, try adding toasted pecans or walnuts to the fudge mixture.

✔ Fold in ½ to 1 cup of chopped, toasted nuts just before pouring the fudge into the pan.
✔ Sprinkle extra finely chopped pecans on top before setting for a decorative finish.

💡 Tip: Lightly toast the nuts in a dry skillet for 3-5 minutes to enhance their flavor before adding them.

If you love exploring different textural elements in homemade treats, check out Pinterest’s collection of homemade food gifts for packaging ideas.

4. Spiced Buttered Rum Fudge (Holiday Edition)

Enhance the warmth of buttered rum by adding holiday spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for a festive version.

✔ Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon nutmeg to the sugar mixture before boiling.
✔ Sprinkle a light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top before the fudge sets.

💡 Tip: This version pairs well with a warm cup of hot buttered rum for the ultimate holiday indulgence!

5. Boozier Buttered Rum Fudge (With Real Rum)

For an adults-only version, replace rum extract with dark or spiced rum.

✔ Use 1 tablespoon of dark rum instead of ½ teaspoon rum extract.
✔ Reduce heavy cream by 1 tablespoon to maintain consistency.
✔ Let the fudge set overnight to allow the rum flavor to deepen.

💡 Tip: Using aged dark rum will enhance the depth and caramelized flavors in the fudge.

If you’re a fan of boozy desserts, browse Pinterest’s collection of boozy treats for more inspiration!

With these variations, you can create a customized Buttered Rum Fudge to suit your taste preferences. Whether you keep it classic, add chocolate, introduce nuts, or make it extra boozy, each version brings its own unique twist to this decadent holiday treat.

Which variation will you try first? Now, let’s move on to how you can store and preserve your fudge for maximum freshness!

Storage & Shelf Life

Once you’ve made your delicious Buttered Rum Fudge, proper storage is key to keeping it fresh, smooth, and flavorful. Whether you’re saving it for later, gifting it, or freezing for future cravings, here’s everything you need to know about maintaining the perfect texture and taste.

1. Storing at Room Temperature

If you plan to enjoy your fudge within a week, room temperature storage is the best option.

✔ Store in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
✔ Keep the container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat.
✔ Layer pieces with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.

💡 Tip: Place a small piece of bread in the container—it helps retain moisture and keeps the fudge soft!

2. Refrigerating for Longer Freshness

For a longer shelf life, store the fudge in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for 2-3 weeks.

✔ Use an airtight container or tightly wrap the fudge in plastic wrap to prevent it from absorbing fridge odors.
✔ Let refrigerated fudge sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before eating for the best texture.

💡 Tip: Refrigeration can make the fudge firmer. If you prefer a softer consistency, microwave a piece for 5-10 seconds before serving.

If you love making homemade sweet treats for gifting, check out Pinterest’s best homemade food gifts for creative packaging ideas.

3. Freezing for Long-Term Storage

Want to keep your fudge fresh for months? Freezing is a great option!

✔ Wrap individual pieces in wax paper, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
✔ Label with the date—fudge stays fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer.
✔ Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for 1 hour before serving.

💡 Tip: Avoid frequent thawing and refreezing—it can make the fudge grainy instead of smooth.

By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your Buttered Rum Fudge for weeks or even months without compromising its creamy texture and rich flavor. Whether you store it at room temperature, refrigerate it, or freeze it, this fudge will always be a deliciously indulgent treat to have on hand.

Now, let’s answer some frequently asked questions about making and storing Buttered Rum Fudge!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If you’re making Buttered Rum Fudge for the first time, you might have some questions about the process, ingredients, and storage. Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions to help you achieve perfectly smooth and delicious fudge every time.

1. Can I Use Real Rum Instead of Rum Extract?

✔ Yes! You can replace ½ teaspoon of rum extract with 1 tablespoon of dark or spiced rum for a richer, boozier flavor.
✔ Reduce the heavy cream by 1 tablespoon to maintain the right consistency.
✔ Let the fudge sit overnight to allow the rum flavor to deepen.

💡 Tip: Dark rum enhances the caramelized butter flavors, making the fudge even more indulgent!

For more about the history and uses of hot buttered rum, check out this Wikipedia page.

2. Why Isn’t My Fudge Setting Properly?

✔ If your fudge is too soft, it may not have reached 234°F (soft-ball stage) during cooking.
✔ Use a candy thermometer to ensure you hit the correct temperature.
✔ If you don’t have a thermometer, do the cold water test—drop a bit of the mixture into cold water, and if it forms a soft, pliable ball, it’s ready.

💡 Tip: If your fudge is too soft after cooling, refrigerate it for an extra hour before cutting.

For more guidance on candy-making temperatures, explore this guide on candy thermometers.

3. Can I Make This Fudge Without a Candy Thermometer?

✔ Yes! Use the soft-ball test: Drop a spoonful of hot fudge mixture into a cup of cold water—if it forms a soft ball, it’s ready.
✔ Be sure to stir constantly to prevent scorching.

💡 Tip: Using a thermometer is the best way to ensure accuracy, but the soft-ball method works well if you don’t have one.

4. How Do I Cut Fudge Without It Crumbling?

✔ Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water, then wipe it dry before cutting.
✔ Cut in a slow, firm motion instead of pressing down too hard.
✔ Store fudge in the fridge for 15 minutes before cutting for cleaner slices.

💡 Tip: A clean knife between cuts prevents sticking and crumbling.

5. Can I Make Buttered Rum Fudge Vegan?

✔ Yes! Substitute these ingredients for a dairy-free, vegan-friendly version:

Butter: Use vegan butter or coconut oil.
Heavy Cream: Swap for coconut cream.
White Chocolate: Use dairy-free white chocolate chips.
Marshmallow Creme: Opt for vegan marshmallow fluff.

💡 Tip: The texture will be slightly different, but the flavor remains rich and delicious!

If you love experimenting with vegan dessert alternatives, check out Pinterest’s best dairy-free fudge recipes.

Buttered Rum Fudge

Author: Christopher

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the rich, buttery smoothness of Buttered Rum Fudge! This decadent, melt-in-your-mouth treat combines the warm, spiced flavors of buttered rum with the creamy texture of white chocolate and marshmallow creme. Perfect for holiday celebrations, edible gifts, or a cozy night in, this easy-to-make fudge is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With a subtle boozy kick from rum extract or dark rum, it’s a sophisticated twist on classic fudge that everyone will love.

✅ Easy to Make | ✅ Creamy & Smooth | ✅ Perfect for Gifting

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups white sugar
½ cup unsalted butter
½ cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon rum extract
¼ teaspoon salt
2 cups white chocolate chips
1 cup marshmallow creme

Instructions

Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper and set aside.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil.
Continue boiling for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture reaches 234°F (112°C) on a candy thermometer.
Remove from heat and quickly stir in vanilla extract, rum extract, and salt.
Add white chocolate chips and marshmallow creme, stirring until completely smooth and melted.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Let the fudge cool at room temperature for about 2 hours or refrigerate for faster setting.
Once firm, cut into small squares and serve.

Notes

✔ Use a Candy Thermometer: To achieve the perfect soft, creamy texture, ensure the mixture reaches 234°F (soft-ball stage). If you don’t have a thermometer, use the cold water test.

✔ Substitutions & Variations:

Swap rum extract for dark rum for a deeper flavor.
Add pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
Try dark chocolate instead of white chocolate for a richer, less sweet version.

✔ Storage Tips:

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Refrigeration: Keeps fresh for 2-3 weeks (bring to room temperature before serving).
Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months—thaw before serving.

✔ Perfect for the Holidays: Buttered Rum Fudge makes an excellent gift! Wrap it in decorative tins or boxes for a festive touch.

💡 Want more variations? Try a spiced version with cinnamon and nutmeg for an extra holiday kick!

Now, grab your ingredients and get ready to make this indulgent, creamy, and perfectly spiced Buttered Rum Fudge! 🍬✨