This White Chocolate Cherry Fudge recipe blends the creamy richness of white chocolate with the sweet-tart flavor of maraschino cherries, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for the holidays, parties, or as a homemade gift. With its festive pink color and smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture, this fudge is sure to be a crowd favorite. Easy to make and beautifully indulgent, it’s a treat everyone will love!
Ingredients:
1/2 cup finely chopped maraschino cherries, dried between paper towels for 30 minutes
1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
2 cups sugar
3/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips
3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons marshmallow cream
1 drop pink food coloring
Directions:
Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the fudge. Set it aside.
Dry the Cherries: Place the chopped maraschino cherries on a plate and gently pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is key to avoid sogginess in your fudge.
Cook the Fudge Base: In a medium saucepan, combine the unsalted butter, sugar, heavy cream, and salt. Stir over medium-high heat until the sugar and butter have fully melted.
Bring to a Boil: Bring the mixture to a boil, then insert a candy thermometer. Stir frequently to ensure the mixture doesn’t burn. Continue cooking until the thermometer reads 235°F (the soft-ball stage).
Add the White Chocolate: Remove the pan from the heat and slowly stir in the white chocolate chips and marshmallow cream. Stir until completely melted and smooth.
Color and Cherry Flavor: Add a drop of pink food coloring to give the fudge a festive hue. Stir to evenly distribute the color, then gently fold in the dried maraschino cherries.
Set the Fudge: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Allow the fudge to set at room temperature for 3-4 hours.
Cut and Serve: Once the fudge is fully set, cut it into 1-inch squares. Serve and enjoy!
Serving Tips:
Portion Sizes: Cut the fudge into 1-inch squares for a perfect bite-sized treat. If you’re serving it at a party or holiday gathering, consider placing the fudge on a decorative platter for an extra festive touch.
Pairings: White Chocolate Cherry Fudge pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee, hot cocoa, or a glass of dessert wine. Its rich, creamy texture complements the warm, comforting flavors of these beverages.
Presentation: For a fun and eye-catching presentation, place the fudge on a festive plate or tiered tray, especially when serving for holidays or special events. You can also top it with a few whole maraschino cherries for added color and decoration.
Storage Tips:
Room Temperature Storage: Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This will help maintain its soft and creamy texture without the need for refrigeration.
Refrigeration: If you need to store it for a longer period, keep the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks when properly stored. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the fudge. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. The fudge can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
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FAQs:
Can I use other types of chocolate in this recipe instead of white chocolate?
Yes! While the recipe calls for white chocolate chips, you can substitute them with milk or dark chocolate chips if you prefer. However, this will change the flavor profile and texture slightly, as white chocolate is creamier and sweeter than milk or dark chocolate.
Can I make this fudge ahead of time?
Absolutely! White Chocolate Cherry Fudge can be made ahead of time and stored for up to a week at room temperature or up to two weeks in the refrigerator. It’s perfect for preparing in advance for parties, holidays, or gifting.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
While maraschino cherries provide a sweet-tart flavor and a beautiful color, fresh cherries are not recommended for this recipe because they contain too much moisture, which can affect the fudge’s consistency. If you prefer fresh cherries, be sure to dry them thoroughly before adding them to the mixture.
How do I prevent my fudge from becoming too hard or grainy?
To avoid a hard or grainy texture, make sure to cook the fudge mixture to the correct temperature (235°F, or soft-ball stage) using a candy thermometer. Avoid overcooking, as it can lead to a dry and hard fudge. Stir the mixture constantly once it reaches this temperature and remove it from heat immediately to maintain its creamy texture.
Conclusion:
This White Chocolate Cherry Fudge is a creamy, festive treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its sweet-tart cherry flavor and smooth white chocolate, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Easy to make and beautifully indulgent, it’s the ideal homemade gift or holiday dessert!
📖 Recipe:
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White Chocolate Cherry Fudge
- Total Time: 3-4 hours (including setting time)
- Yield: 25-30 pieces
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
If you’re looking for a deliciously creamy and festive treat to make for the holidays, parties, or just a special indulgence, this White Chocolate Cherry Fudge is a must-try. Combining the richness of smooth white chocolate with the sweet-tart flavor of maraschino cherries, this fudge not only tastes amazing but also has a beautiful pop of pink color. It’s a perfect homemade gift or treat to share with loved ones.
Ingredients
1/2 cup finely chopped maraschino cherries, dried between paper towels for 30 minutes
1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
2 cups sugar
3/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips
3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons marshmallow cream
1 drop pink food coloring
Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper and set aside.
- Pat the chopped maraschino cherries dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a medium saucepan, combine butter, sugar, heavy cream, and salt. Stir over medium-high heat until the sugar and butter have melted.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then insert a candy thermometer. Stir frequently until the thermometer reads 235°F (soft-ball stage).
- Remove from heat and stir in white chocolate chips and marshmallow cream until smooth.
- Add pink food coloring and mix until evenly distributed. Gently fold in the dried cherries.
- Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Let the fudge set at room temperature for 3-4 hours until firm.
- Once set, cut into 1-inch squares and serve.
Notes
Ensure the maraschino cherries are thoroughly dried to avoid excess moisture that can affect the fudge’s texture.
For a more vibrant color, you can adjust the amount of pink food coloring as desired.
This fudge makes an excellent gift or party treat when packaged in a decorative tin or box.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Holiday Treats, Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 25-30 pieces
- Calories: 120 kcal per piece
