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)
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
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 25 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
