Candy Corn Fudge

I recently bought some American confectionery from American Sweets Online. As well as just munching them straight from the packet (let's try and not to think about the calories), I thought I would try and take the opportunity to include them in some of my baking.

When I was thinking of sweet treats to take into the office for Halloween, I looked at what was left from my last internet order. There was half a bag of Candy Corn, and this became my theme. I made some Candy Corn Cupcakes for husband's office, and decided to actually include some of the candy in my creation - Candy Corn Fudge.

Unlike the cupcakes, this fudge would actually contain some Candy Corn.

I started off with a simple white chocolate fudge, which I added a splash of Bailey's Irish Cream to ... just because it was made to go into fudge. Trust me.

Ingredients:

• 500g granulated sugar
• 500ml whipping cream
• 150g white chocolate (finely chopped)
• 50ml Baileys (optional)

 Method: 

1. Start off by lining a deep baking tray (approx 9"x9") with cling film.
2. Put the sugar, cream and Bailey's (if you are using it) into a preserving pan over a moderate heat
3. Stir continously until the sugar has melted, then turn the heat up.
4. Continue stirring to prevent the mixture burning, and heat until the mixture reaches 'soft ball' stage. The mixture will bubble and rise but once the bubbles start to subside, and become tighter, then check for soft ball stage by dropping a small amount into some iced water. If the mixture can be pressed into a soft ball, it is ready. Alternatively, if you have a sugar thermometer, heat to 235°f / 115°c. 
5. Turn off the heat, and stir in the chocolate. Once the chocolate is melted and well incorporated, pour quickly into the waiting tray. 
6. Spread out, if necessary, with a metal spoon. 

At this point, I added a couple of handfuls of the Candy Corn and pressed this into the fudge before it set. I left it on the counter to cool, then placed in the fridge overnight. Next morning, cut and serve.

The fudge is very sweet, and only a piece or two is required.

The recipe is quite easy to customise. You could replace the white chocolate with milk, or dark chocolate, and you could add any liqueur, or top with other sweets.