Baileys fudge is a creamy and sweet treat perfect for any time of year, but ideal for the holiday season or St. Patrick’s day celebrations. It's silky smooth and melts in the mouth.
In a large saucepan, combine brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, Baileys Irish cream, milk, butter, and salt.
Cook over low-medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture boils. Once dissolved, cook until the mixture reaches the soft-ball stage around 115 °C / 240 °F. Stir to stop it from burning at the bottom and don't turn up the heat high.
Testing without a sugar thermometer: Drop a small amount of the hot fudge mixture into a glass of ice-cold water. If it forms a soft ball immediately, it's ready.
Remove from heat and let cool for 5-10 minutes, then beat with a wooden spoon or an electric hand mixer until it loses its shine and becomes matte.
Pour it into the prepared pan, smooth the top, and let it cool to room temperature for 3-4 hours.
Cut into small squares. Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 weeks or refrigerated for up to 3 weeks.
Notes
Both metric and US customary cup measurements are provided. Use the toggle on the recipe card to switch between the two.
Tips
Use a heavy pot: Thin pans can scorch easily while a thick base spreads heat evenly.
Cook on low heat: Let the sugar dissolve slowly before it boils.
Stir constantly if it's catching. Keep it moving so nothing sticks or burns on the bottom.
Let it boil slowly: Fast boiling can make the fudge grainy, bitty, or curdled.
Be patient: It can take 15 to 20 minutes to reach the soft-ball stage (115 °C / 240 °F).
If it stays glossy after beating for ages: It likely wasn’t cooked hot enough. Gently reheat, then cook a little longer; cool and beat again.