Description
Delightful Vanilla Bean Dandelion Fudge blends wild dandelion sweetness with creamy vanilla undertones, creating a unique dessert experience. Wilderness-inspired ingredients and simple preparation make this treat an unexpected culinary adventure you’ll savor with each rich, floral bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups (340 grams / 12 ounces) white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters / 4 ounces) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (1 stick, 113 grams / 4 ounces) unsalted butter
Sweeteners and Flavoring:
- 1/4 cup (60 milliliters / 2 ounces) dandelion syrup or dandelion honey (or maple syrup as a substitute)
- 1/2 cup (60 grams / 2 ounces) powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste (or 1 vanilla bean, seeds scraped)
Finishing Ingredients:
- Pinch of sea salt
- 1/4 cup fresh or dried dandelion petals (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Meticulously clean fresh dandelion petals or procure pre-made dandelion syrup from a specialty store, ensuring thorough preparation.
- Position a medium saucepan on low heat, delicately melting white chocolate chips and unsalted butter while continuously stirring to prevent scorching; remove from heat immediately after achieving a smooth consistency.
- Incorporate heavy cream, dandelion syrup, and vanilla bean paste into the melted chocolate mixture, whisking until achieving a uniform, silky texture.
- Methodically introduce powdered sugar in gradual increments, blending thoroughly after each addition to create a glossy, velvety fudge base; sprinkle a refined pinch of sea salt to enhance flavor complexity.
- Carefully line an 8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage of bottom and sides.
- Transfer the luxurious fudge mixture into the prepared dish, using a spatula to create an impeccably smooth surface.
- Refrigerate for 3-4 hours at 40°F, allowing the fudge to solidify completely and develop its distinctive creamy texture.
- Once set, optionally embellish the surface with delicate dandelion petals for an elegant presentation.
- Slice into petite, uniform squares using a sharp knife, wiping the blade between cuts for pristine edges.
- Serve chilled and store in an airtight container within the refrigerator, maintaining freshness for up to seven days.
Notes
- Handling fresh dandelion petals requires careful washing to remove dirt and ensure food safety, so rinse gently under cool water and pat dry completely before use.
- White chocolate melts best over low, consistent heat; stir continuously to prevent scorching and achieve a smooth, creamy texture without burning.
- Experiment with alternative sweeteners like maple syrup or honey for different flavor profiles, adjusting quantity to maintain the fudge’s desired consistency.
- Create a gluten-free version by verifying all ingredients are certified gluten-free, particularly the powdered sugar and white chocolate chips.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Melting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 16
- Calories: 173
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 28 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0.1 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 0.2 g
- Protein: 1.4 g
- Cholesterol: 24 mg