This Christmas Cherry Fudge is a creamy, dreamy holiday dessert that combines the richness of white chocolate with the sweet flavor of maraschino cherries. With its festive appearance and no-bake simplicity, this fudge is a perfect addition to your holiday dessert table or as a thoughtful homemade gift.
Ingredients:
For the Fudge:
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained, patted dry, and chopped
For Garnish:
- Whole maraschino cherries
- Holiday sprinkles
- White chocolate drizzle (optional)
Preparation:
1: Prepare the Baking Pan
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2: Melt the Fudge Base
- In a medium saucepan, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter.
- Heat over low-medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
3: Add the Flavor and Cherries
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the almond extract.
- Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
4: Pour and Spread
- Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
5: Garnish the Fudge
- Decorate the top with whole maraschino cherries and holiday sprinkles.
- For an extra festive touch, drizzle melted white chocolate over the top.
6: Chill and Slice
- Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2-3 hours, or until fully set.
- Once firm, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and slice into squares.
Cooking Notes:
- Dry cherries thoroughly: Excess moisture from the cherries can affect the texture of the fudge.
- Use high-quality chocolate: Premium white chocolate chips melt smoother and enhance the flavor.
- Customize thickness: For thicker fudge, use a smaller pan; for thinner pieces, use a larger pan.
Serving Suggestions:
- Holiday Dessert Platter: Arrange the fudge alongside cookies, truffles, and brownies for a festive spread.
- Gift Idea: Package in holiday tins or clear cellophane bags with ribbons for a thoughtful, edible present.
- Pair with Drinks: Serve with a warm mug of hot cocoa, spiced tea, or peppermint coffee for a cozy treat.
Tips:
- Make it ahead: Prepare the fudge a day in advance to save time and ensure it’s fully set.
- Store properly: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freeze for longer storage: Freeze the fudge in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Chill Time:
2-3 hours
Total Time:
2 hours 10 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Piece):
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 35mg
FAQs:
Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
A: Yes, fresh cherries work well, but ensure they are pitted and completely dried to avoid excess moisture.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely! Use a 9×13-inch pan to accommodate the larger batch.
Q: Can I use other types of chocolate?
A: You can substitute dark or milk chocolate for a richer flavor, but the holiday look will change.
Q: How do I prevent the fudge from sticking?
A: Lining the pan with parchment paper ensures easy removal and clean slicing.
Conclusion:
This Christmas Cherry Fudge is a delightful holiday treat that’s sure to bring smiles to your celebrations. Its creamy texture, bursts of cherry flavor, and festive toppings make it a standout dessert for any occasion. Whether sharing with loved ones or indulging yourself, this fudge is a holiday favorite you’ll want to make year after year. Enjoy every sweet, cherry-filled bite!
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Christmas Cherry Fudge: A Sweet and Festive Holiday Treat
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredients:
For the Fudge:
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained, patted dry, and chopped
For Garnish:
- Whole maraschino cherries
- Holiday sprinkles
- White chocolate drizzle (optional)
Instructions
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Step 2: Melt the Fudge Base
- In a medium saucepan, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter.
- Heat over low-medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
Step 3: Add the Flavor and Cherries
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the almond extract.
- Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 4: Pour and Spread
- Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 5: Garnish the Fudge
- Decorate the top with whole maraschino cherries and holiday sprinkles.
- For an extra festive touch, drizzle melted white chocolate over the top.
Step 6: Chill and Slice
- Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2-3 hours, or until fully set.
- Once firm, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and slice into squares.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-3 hours (Chill Time)
Nutrition
- Calories: 150
- Sodium: 35mg
- Protein: 2g