If you’re craving a treat that’s luscious, creamy, and bursts with pops of cherry, look no further than No-Bake Cherry Fudge. This recipe is a total lifesaver for busy days or last-minute gatherings: you don’t need an oven, just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of hands-on time. The combination of smooth white chocolate, sweet cherries, and crunchy nuts creates a fudge that’s both stunning and irresistible. Whether it’s for the holidays, a potluck, or just a weeknight pick-me-up, No-Bake Cherry Fudge brings the wow factor with almost zero effort.

No-Bake Cherry Fudge Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Base Ingredients
- 3 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Add-ins
- 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

How to Make No-Bake Cherry Fudge

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Leave a generous overhang on the sides—this simple trick makes it super easy to lift out your fudge once it’s set, ensuring perfect squares every time and zero sticking.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Milk

In a medium saucepan, combine your white chocolate chips and the entire can of sweetened condensed milk. Place the pan over low heat and stir constantly. You want slow, gentle heat and lots of stirring so the chocolate melts smoothly and doesn’t scorch. When the mixture is glossy and lump-free, you’re ready for the next step.

Step 3: Add Flavors and Mix-Ins

Take the pan off the heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract if you’re using it. Next, gently fold in the chopped, well-dried maraschino cherries and nuts. Mix just until everything is evenly distributed—you don’t want to overwork it, or the fudge could lose its creamy texture.

Step 4: Spread and Chill

Without delay, scrape the fudge mixture into your prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top and press a few extra cherry pieces on for a festive look if you like. Pop the pan in the fridge and let it chill for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is firm to the touch.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Once your No-Bake Cherry Fudge is set, lift it out using the parchment paper and place on a cutting board. Cut into small squares (a sharp knife helps here), and serve chilled for the best texture and flavor. Each bite is a dreamy combo of creamy, chewy, and crunchy.

How to Serve No-Bake Cherry Fudge

Garnishes

For a show-stopping finish, top each square of No-Bake Cherry Fudge with a cherry half or a sprinkle of chopped nuts right before serving. A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate also adds a lovely touch, making your fudge look bakery-worthy with minimal effort.

Side Dishes

Pair your No-Bake Cherry Fudge with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a bowl of fresh berries, or even some salty pretzels for contrast. These accompaniments balance the sweetness and turn your fudge into a full-on dessert spread perfect for sharing.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking squares of fudge in pretty gift boxes or wrapping them in cellophane for an edible present. For parties, arrange the fudge on a tiered platter with other bite-sized treats, or skewer the cubes onto cocktail picks for a playful, party-ready twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover No-Bake Cherry Fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps the fudge firm and prevents the cherries from weeping. It stays fresh and delicious for up to one week—if it lasts that long!

Freezing

Want to save some for later? No problem. Wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to three months, and thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready for another sweet treat.

Reheating

No-Bake Cherry Fudge is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat. If you’ve frozen the fudge, just let it thaw in the refrigerator before serving—this preserves the creamy texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

While fresh cherries sound tempting, maraschino cherries work best in this recipe because they’re sweeter and have a firmer texture when mixed into fudge. If you use fresh cherries, make sure to pit, chop, and dry them thoroughly, but keep in mind the fudge may be softer.

Can I make No-Bake Cherry Fudge without nuts?

Absolutely! The nuts are totally optional and can be left out for a nut-free version. Your fudge will still be deliciously creamy and flavorful with just the cherries and chocolate.

What’s the best way to cut the fudge cleanly?

For perfect squares, use a sharp, large knife and wipe it clean between cuts. Chilling the fudge well before slicing helps create neat edges, and you can even lightly oil the knife for extra smooth cuts.

How do I prevent the fudge from becoming too soft?

Make sure your maraschino cherries are thoroughly drained and patted dry before adding them to the mixture. Excess moisture is the main culprit for soft fudge, so don’t skip this step!

Can I use different flavors of chocolate chips?

Definitely! While white chocolate gives the classic look and flavor, you can experiment with milk or dark chocolate chips for a new twist. Just keep in mind the color will change, and the fudge may be a bit richer.

Final Thoughts

No-Bake Cherry Fudge is one of those recipes you’ll want to make again and again—simple, stunning, and so satisfying. Give it a try and share a batch with your friends or family; I promise, this sweet treat will disappear fast!

No-Bake Cherry Fudge Recipe

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4.8 from 24 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 36 small squares 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This No-Bake Cherry Fudge is a creamy, sweet treat made with white chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, and juicy maraschino cherries. Perfect for holidays or any festive occasion, this easy fudge recipe requires no baking and sets quickly in the refrigerator, resulting in smooth, rich squares studded with cherries and nuts for added texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

3 cups white chocolate chips
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

Add-ins

1 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring some overhang on the sides to easily lift the fudge out after it sets.
Melt the Chocolate Mixture: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir continuously to prevent scorching until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Add Flavorings and Mix-ins: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, almond extract if using, chopped cherries, and nuts until evenly distributed throughout the fudge mixture.
Set the Fudge: Quickly pour and spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula if needed for an even surface.
Chill to Firm: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours or until it is firm enough to cut.
Cut and Serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the fudge from the pan. Cut into 36 small squares. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Notes

Drain and pat the maraschino cherries dry thoroughly to prevent excess moisture that can soften the fudge.
For a festive presentation, reserve a few cherry pieces to press on top of the fudge before chilling.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week to maintain freshness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Dessert, Candy
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American