Cherry Fudge Recipe
Introduction
Cherry fudge is a luscious and creamy treat perfect for chocolate lovers who enjoy a fruity twist. This recipe combines white chocolate, cherry flavor, and a rich dark chocolate topping for a delightful dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups white chocolate chips
- 7 ounce jar Fluff (marshmallow cream)
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon cherry flavored gelatin
- 1/2 cup dried cherries
- 10 ounce dark chocolate, melted
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large saucepan, melt the butter with sugar, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt over medium-high heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, then continue boiling for 5 minutes. Stir in the cherry flavored gelatin during this time.
- Step 2: Remove the saucepan from heat. In a mixing bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and marshmallow cream. Pour the hot butter mixture over them. Use a whisk to beat until smooth and creamy, ensuring all the white chocolate has melted. Gently fold in the dried cherries.
- Step 3: Line a 9-inch square pan with parchment paper. Pour the fudge mixture into the pan, spreading it evenly. Pour the melted dark chocolate over the top. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set. Cut into squares and enjoy.
Tips & Variations
- For a nutty twist, add chopped toasted almonds or walnuts to the fudge before setting.
- If you prefer a more intense cherry flavor, soak the dried cherries in cherry juice for 30 minutes before folding them in.
- Use semi-sweet chocolate instead of dark chocolate if you want a sweeter topping.
- Make sure to line the pan with parchment for easy removal and clean edges.
Storage
Store cherry fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the fudge in a wrapped container for up to one month. Let thaw in the refrigerator before serving. To soften slightly before eating, let the fudge sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried cherries?
Fresh cherries contain more moisture and may affect the fudge’s texture. Dried cherries are recommended for the best consistency and flavor.
Is it necessary to use cherry flavored gelatin?
Cherry flavored gelatin adds both flavor and helps set the fudge properly. You can experiment with other fruit flavors, but cherry gelatin is preferred to complement the dried cherries.
PrintCherry Fudge Recipe
This Cherry Fudge recipe combines the creamy richness of white and dark chocolate with a delightful cherry flavor and chewy dried cherries, producing a luscious and indulgent treat perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave a sweet delight.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 36 squares 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 2 1/2 cups white chocolate chips
- 7 ounce jar Fluff (marshmallow cream)
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- Pinch of salt
- 1 Tablespoon cherry flavored gelatin
- 1/2 cup dried cherries
Topping
- 10 ounce dark chocolate (melted)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base Mixture: In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter together with granulated sugar, heavy whipping cream, and a pinch of salt over medium-high heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, then once boiling, add the cherry flavored gelatin and continue boiling for 5 minutes to fully incorporate the gelatin and dissolve the sugar.
- Combine with White Chocolate and Fluff: Remove the saucepan from heat after 5 minutes. In a separate mixing bowl, place the white chocolate chips and marshmallow cream. Pour the hot butter and sugar mixture over these ingredients and whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and all the white chocolate chips have melted completely. Gently fold in the dried cherries to evenly distribute them throughout the fudge base.
- Set the Fudge: Line a 9-inch square pan with parchment paper. Pour the prepared fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Next, pour the melted dark chocolate over the top to create a rich chocolate topping layer. Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight, allowing the fudge to firm up completely.
- Serve: Once fully set, remove the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper and cut it into squares. Serve chilled and enjoy the rich cherry-flavored fudge experience.
Notes
- Ensure the cherry gelatin is fully dissolved during boiling to enhance the cherry flavor.
- Using parchment paper to line the pan makes it easier to remove the fudge after setting.
- Dried cherries can be substituted with fresh cherries if preferred, but fresh cherries may add extra moisture that could affect the fudge texture.
- Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- For a stronger cherry flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cherry extract along with the gelatin.
Keywords: Cherry fudge, white chocolate fudge, marshmallow fudge, cherry dessert, chocolate cherry fudge, homemade fudge, holiday fudge
