British confectionery has delighted sweet-toothed enthusiasts for generations with its vast array of delectable sweets. Among the most beloved are fudge and Scottish Tablet.
While these sugar delights may seem similar at first glance, they each possess unique characteristics that set them apart.
In this article, we’ll embark on a delightful journey into the world of Fudge and Scottish Tablet. We will explore their differences and provide insights into where you can find these irresistible treats, including vegan, caramel, and gluten-free options.
Understanding Fudge:
Fudge is a classic confectionery that combines sugar, butter, and condensed milk. This indulgent treat is renowned for its smooth and creamy texture, which melts in your mouth with each bite.
It comes in various flavours and can be infused with nuts, chocolates, fruits, or even spices to create delightful taste combinations.
Traditional fudge recipes call for dairy products like butter and milk. However, with dietary preferences and restrictions, vegan fudge has gained popularity.
Vegan Fudge is made using plant-based alternatives to butter and milk, such as coconut oil or nut milk, while still delivering a luscious taste and texture. So, if you are following a vegan lifestyle, you can enjoy the rich flavours of fudge guilt-free.
We at Bluebell Cottage have also developed a collection of delicious vegan fudge that is backed by excellent feedback from the community.
Exploring Scottish Tablet:
Scottish Tablet, also known as ‘Butter Tablet’, is a distinct Scottish confectionery. It holds a special place in the hearts of those familiar with its unique flavour and texture.
The primary ingredients of Scottish Tablet are sugar, condensed milk, and butter.
What sets tablet apart from fudge is its crumbly and grainy texture, often described as “melting in the mouth.”
Unlike fudge, which relies on a different cooking process, Scottish tablet is prepared through a rapid boiling method (high temperature), resulting in a distinctive texture. Scottish tablet is higher in sugar, while fudge is higher in fat.
Tablet is often flavoured with vanilla or other extracts, providing a delicate aroma that enhances its sweet taste. It's important to note that traditional tablet recipes typically contain dairy products and may not be suitable for vegans.
However, some artisan confectioners offer vegan-friendly versions of this beloved Scottish delicacy. We hope to experiment in the near future with a vegan friendly tablet.
Where to Find Handmade Fudge and Scottish Tablet:
If you're craving a taste of these British confectionery delights, you're in luck!
Numerous options are available for purchasing Scottish tablet and handmade fudge online and in physical stores. Artisan confectionery shops, local markets, and speciality food stores often stock a wide variety of fudge flavours, including vegan and gluten-free options.
These establishments provide an opportunity to explore unique, small-batch creations while supporting local businesses.
For those seeking convenience and a broader selection, online platforms have made it easier than ever to satisfy your fudge and tablet cravings.
Numerous confectionery websites, such as ourselves, offer a diverse range of flavors and dietary options, including vegan, caramel, and gluten-free fudge. With just a few clicks, you can have these delectable treats delivered straight to your doorstep, ensuring a memorable and indulgent experience.
At our store we have also made an option available to our customers to build their own fudge boxes and get them delivered for free.
Conclusion:
While fudge and Scottish tablet may share a common foundation of sugar and butter, they each possess distinct characteristics that set them apart.
Fudge captivates with its smooth and creamy texture, while Scottish tablet delights with its crumbly and grainy mouthfeel.
Whether you're a fudge enthusiast or a tablet aficionado, there are numerous options available, including vegan, caramel, and gluten-free variations.
So, embark on a delightful journey through the world of British confectionery, savoring the exquisite flavours and discovering new favourites along the way.
FAQs
Scottish tablet is higher in sugar, while fudge is higher in fat. Tablet is often flavoured with vanilla or other extracts, providing a delicate aroma that enhances its sweet taste. It's important to note that traditional tablet recipes typically contain dairy products and may not be suitable for vegans.
Is Scottish tablet the same as fudge? ›
Some people will try to tell you that tablet is a form of fudge. However, proper tablet aficionados (and we have been doing a lot of sampling) will tell you that there is a clear difference in texture between tablet and fudge. Fudge tends to be softer, while tablet has a grainier and more brittle texture.
What is the difference between Sucre a la creme and Scottish tablet? ›
Tablet is made of sweetened condensed milk, butter, and sugar, and is thinner, grainier, and more crumbly than fudge. Sucre à la crème leans on heavy cream for fat and is traditionally made with maple syrup or sugar.
Why is it called a Scottish tablet? ›
Tablet is occasionally referred to as Scottish or Scots tablet or as Swiss Milk tablet, since some people call condensed milk “Swiss Milk”. For most Scots, tablet is their favourite sweet, especially when home-made.
Why is my tablet like fudge? ›
Scottish tablet and fudge are made in a similar way. That is by melting sugars and using elbow grease to reach a thickening point. But it is the liquid in the tablet recipe that makes all the difference. Traditionally fudge is made with double or clotted cream, while tablet is made with condensed milk.
Does Scottish tablet need to be refrigerated? ›
How long does Scottish Tablet Keep? Tablet is over 50% sugar and because sugar is a natural preservative, it means that if it is kept in an airtight tin and stored at room temperature, it can last for around 10 days. If you keep it in the fridge, however, it can keep for a few weeks!
Why is my Scottish tablet not hardening? ›
Why Is My Scottish Tablet Not Setting? If your Scottish tablet isn't setting up, the reason likely has to do with temperature. The mixture must be brought up to a full boil for five minutes and reach 250 F before simmering.
Why is my Scottish tablet grainy? ›
Pour too soon and you'll get a very grainy mixture as the sugar crystals haven't been fully stretched.
What is the English version of Creme de la Creme? ›
Crème de la crème (French, literally 'cream of the cream') is an idiom meaning "the best of the best", "superlative", or "the very best".
What does a Scottish tablet taste like? ›
Think the sweetest fudge you've ever had, without the vanilla flavour, but more of a crumbly, melt-in-the-mouth texture. And multiple the sweetness by about a hundred. Then you're pretty close to what tablet tastes like!
The main difference is the texture, which is determined by two things: the size of the sugar crystals in the candy, and the concentration of the sugar. Toffee is smooth with no sugar crystals, whereas fudge has tiny crystals that give it that texture.
Why is fudge called fudge? ›
The exact origin and inventor of this delicious confection are hotly debated. However, many believe the first batch of fudge was created by accident when American bakers “fudged” a batch of caramels. Hence the name “fudge.”
How do you eat Scottish fudge? ›
To serve Scottish fudge as a dessert, you can either serve it on its own or pair it with other dessert elements such as ice cream, whipped cream, or fruit.
Can I reboil a Scottish tablet? ›
If you pour it into the tin and it doesn't set, don't worry, just reboil for a little while longer (I've done this a few times) Also good with a bit of fresh ginger added at the beginning, flavours the tablet beautifully and leaves little exciting nuggets to bite into!
What is the difference between Scottish fudge and Scottish tablet? ›
Ingredients: Scottish tablet is typically made with sugar, condensed milk, butter, and sometimes vanilla extract. Scottish fudge, on the other hand, often contains sugar, butter, cream, and milk, and may also include flavours such as chocolate or nuts.
Can you freeze a Scottish tablet? ›
Since sugar is a natural preservative, tablet will last for a while! Stored in an airtight tin, it will keep well for at least two or three weeks. Can you freeze it? Yes!
Is nougat a type of fudge? ›
Nougat is a fluffy, aerated confection that is made of sugar or honey and egg whites. It often contains fruits and nuts. Traditional nougat resembles fudge and is a far cry from the processed candy fillings you might be familiar with, which are generally made with hydrolyzed proteins and corn syrup.
What is fudge in the UK? ›
Fudge is a rich, sweet confectionery that has been cherished in British culinary tradition for many years. Characterised by its smooth, creamy texture and decadent flavour, fudge is typically made from a mixture of sugar, butter, and milk or cream.
What is fudge similar to? ›
Fudge shares similarities with tablet, a confection with similar ingredients but a grainy, brittle texture.
What is Scottish tablet ice cream? ›
Traditionally Scottish with an Italian twist. Chunks of smooth butter tablet mixed into a creamy panna cotta ice cream.
