White Chocolate Caramel Fudge

### Instructions:

#### 1. **Prepare the Pan:**
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with butter. This will make it much easier to remove the fudge once it has set.

#### 2. **Melt the White Chocolate:**
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir continuously to prevent the chocolate from burning or sticking to the pan. Keep stirring until the chocolate and butter are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy. Be patient, as it may take a few minutes for the mixture to fully come together.

#### 3. **Add the Vanilla and Salt:**
Once the white chocolate mixture is smooth, remove it from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, if desired. The vanilla enhances the sweetness of the white chocolate, while the salt balances the flavor, making it more complex.

#### 4. **Swirl in the Caramel:**
Now, gently swirl in the caramel sauce. You don’t want to stir it completely into the fudge; instead, create a marbled effect by just swirling it a bit. This will allow the caramel to form pockets throughout the fudge, giving each bite a delicious caramel burst.

#### 5. **Pour and Set:**
Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula. You should see beautiful swirls of caramel running through the white chocolate. Once spread evenly, refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours, or until it is firm and fully set.

#### 6. **Cut and Serve:**
Once the fudge has set, remove it from the fridge. Use a sharp knife to cut it into small squares or rectangles. The fudge will be soft and creamy but firm enough to hold its shape when sliced.

#### 7. **Enjoy or Gift:**
Serve the fudge right away, or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’re gifting it, wrap the fudge in parchment paper and tie it with a ribbon for a beautiful homemade touch!

### Why This Recipe Works:

– **White Chocolate Magic:** White chocolate is the star of the show in this fudge. Its creamy, sweet, and slightly vanilla flavor acts as the perfect base to complement the caramel, creating a smooth, indulgent treat.
– **Caramel Perfection:** Swirling in the caramel creates beautiful swirls of color and adds pockets of rich, buttery sweetness throughout the fudge. The caramel enhances the overall flavor without overwhelming the sweetness of the white chocolate.
– **Simple Ingredients:** With just a few ingredients—sweetened condensed milk, white chocolate, caramel, and butter—this recipe is quick and easy, making it perfect for beginner bakers or anyone who wants a hassle-free dessert.

### Tips for Perfect White Chocolate Caramel Fudge:

– **Use High-Quality White Chocolate:** The quality of the white chocolate can make a big difference in the final taste of the fudge. Choose high-quality white chocolate chips or bars for the best texture and flavor.
– **Don’t Overheat the White Chocolate:** When melting the white chocolate, be careful not to overheat it. Melt it on low heat and stir constantly to ensure it becomes smooth without burning.
– **Customize the Flavor:** If you want to add a little extra flair to the fudge, consider sprinkling a pinch of sea salt on top for a salted caramel version or adding a swirl of peanut butter for a nutty twist.
– **Storage Tips:** Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also refrigerate it for longer storage, but be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving to allow it to soften a bit.

### Why This Fudge is Perfect for Any Occasion:

– **Holiday Gifts:** This fudge makes an excellent homemade gift for the holidays. You can package it in a decorative box, jar, or tin to give to friends and family. It’s a thoughtful, delicious, and personalized gift that’s sure to be appreciated.
– **Parties and Gatherings:** Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, a family gathering, or a simple get-together, this fudge is a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to serve and always a hit at dessert tables.
– **Quick Indulgence:** If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat but don’t have much time, this fudge is perfect. It requires minimal effort and is ready in just a few hours.

### Final Thoughts:

**White Chocolate Caramel Fudge** is the ultimate indulgence for anyone with a sweet tooth. Creamy white chocolate, rich caramel, and the perfect balance of flavors come together in this melt-in-your-mouth fudge that is both simple to make and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re enjoying it as a personal treat, sharing it with loved ones, or gifting it during the holidays, this fudge is sure to impress. With its beautiful swirls of caramel and smooth texture, it’s a dessert that never goes out of style—making it a must-try for anyone who loves sweet, buttery treats.