If you’re looking for a decadent dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and the tartness of cherries, then look no further than this delightful Cherry Fudge recipe. This treat is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to holiday celebrations. The best part? It’s incredibly simple to make! You can whip it up in under 30 minutes and let it set while you enjoy some time with friends or family. Each bite of creamy fudge melts in your mouth, delivering a burst of cherry flavor that pairs beautifully with the richness of chocolate. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at candy-making for the first time, this recipe guarantees success. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this indulgent yet easy-to-make Cherry Fudge!
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Fudge
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Rich and Decadent Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries creates an unforgettable taste experience
- Customizable Treat: Feel free to add nuts or other ingredients based on your preferences
- Perfect Gift Idea: This homemade fudge makes a thoughtful gift for friends and family during special occasions
Ingredients for Cherry Fudge
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Essential for creating a creamy texture; use a good quality brand for the best results
- Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips work best; you could also use dark or milk chocolate based on your preferences
- Dried Cherries: Choose high-quality dried cherries for maximum flavor; they add sweetness and a chewy texture
- Butter: Unsalted butter enhances the richness; be sure to melt it before mixing with other ingredients
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cherry Fudge
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Begin by lining an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. This step will help you easily lift the fudge out once it’s set.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk and butter. Stir until melted together, then add in the chocolate chips. Continue stirring until smooth.
Step 3: Add Dried Cherries
Remove the saucepan from heat and fold in the dried cherries. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 4: Pour into Pan
Pour the mixture into your prepared pan and spread it evenly using a spatula. Tap the pan gently on your counter to remove air bubbles.
Step 5: Chill Until Set
Refrigerate for about two hours or until completely firm. Once set, use the parchment paper to lift the fudge out of the pan.
Step 6: Cut and Serve
Cut into squares using a sharp knife. Serve chilled or at room temperature for added enjoyment!
Transfer to plates and enjoy as an irresistible dessert after dinner or as an afternoon snack!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opting for high-quality chocolate chips will greatly enhance the flavor of your fudge.
- Storage Tips: Keep leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature; it’ll stay fresh for up to one week.
- Add Texture: For added crunch, consider mixing in chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans.
How to Serve Cherry Fudge
This Cherry Fudge is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Ice Cream: The creamy texture of ice cream complements the rich sweetness of the fudge, creating a delightful dessert experience.
- Coffee: A cup of coffee enhances the chocolatey flavor while providing a perfect balance to the sweetness of the fudge.
- Cheese Platter: The saltiness of cheese contrasts beautifully with the sweet Cherry Fudge, making for an interesting flavor combination.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare Cherry Fudge up to two days in advance. Simply follow your recipe, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
- Storing: Leftover Cherry Fudge can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week at room temperature. For longer storage, refrigerate it, where it will last up to two weeks.
- Reheating: To reheat Cherry Fudge, cut it into individual pieces and place it in a microwave-safe dish. Heat on low power for about 15-20 seconds or until warm but not melted, ensuring that you maintain its texture and flavor.
Suggestions for Cherry Fudge:
Use High-Quality Ingredients
When making cherry fudge, the quality of your ingredients can significantly impact the final product. Opt for fresh, ripe cherries or high-quality cherry preserves to capture that rich flavor profile. Additionally, use premium chocolate—whether dark, milk, or white—to ensure a smooth and creamy texture. Avoid using low-quality chocolate chips, as they may not melt well and can create a gritty texture in your fudge. By investing in top-notch ingredients, you will elevate the overall taste of your cherry fudge and impress your family and friends.
Measure Accurately
Precision is key when making cherry fudge. Use a kitchen scale to measure your ingredients accurately, especially the chocolate and sugar. Incorrect measurements can lead to inconsistencies in texture and taste. For instance, too much sugar can make your fudge overly sweet while too little may result in a crumbly consistency. Follow the recipe closely and consider using measuring cups and spoons specifically designed for baking. This attention to detail will help you achieve a perfectly balanced cherry fudge every time.
Don’t Overheat the Mixture
One common mistake when preparing cherry fudge is overheating the mixture. While it might be tempting to speed up the melting process by using high heat, doing so can cause the chocolate to seize or burn, ruining the fudge’s texture. Instead, melt your chocolate slowly over low heat or using a double boiler method. Stir continuously until fully melted and smooth. This gentle approach will lead to a creamy consistency that enhances the overall flavor of your cherry fudge.
Allow Proper Cooling Time
Another crucial aspect of making delicious cherry fudge is allowing it sufficient cooling time before cutting or serving. After pouring the mixture into a prepared pan, let it cool at room temperature for about an hour before placing it in the refrigerator for at least two more hours. Rushing this step may result in soft or gooey fudge that doesn’t hold its shape well when cut into pieces. Proper cooling ensures that your cherry fudge sets correctly, creating those perfect squares everyone loves.
FAQs:
What are some variations of Cherry Fudge?
Cherry fudge can be customized in many delightful ways! You might try adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor contrast. Alternatively, swirl in other flavors such as almond extract for a unique twist or mix in white chocolate chips for added sweetness. Another variation is to incorporate different types of cherries—like maraschino cherries or dried cherries—for varied textures and tastes. Each tweak allows you to create a version of cherry fudge tailored to your preferences.
Can I make Cherry Fudge ahead of time?
Absolutely! One of the best aspects of cherry fudge is its ability to be made ahead of time without compromising flavor or texture. In fact, allowing it to sit for a day enhances its flavors as they meld together beautifully over time. Store your finished cherry fudge in an airtight container at room temperature if consumed within a few days or refrigerate it for longer freshness. Just remember to let it come back to room temperature before serving; this makes cutting easier and improves taste.
How should I store Cherry Fudge?
Proper storage is essential for maintaining the quality of your cherry fudge. To keep it fresh, place your cooled fudge in an airtight container lined with parchment paper between layers if stacked. Store it at room temperature away from direct sunlight for up to five days; if you want to extend its shelf life, refrigerate it, where it can last up to two weeks without losing flavor or texture. If you’ve made a large batch or want to keep some for later, consider freezing pieces wrapped tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil.
Can I use frozen cherries in my Cherry Fudge?
Yes! Using frozen cherries is an excellent option when fresh ones are not available. Just ensure that you thaw them completely before incorporating them into your recipe; excess moisture from frozen cherries can alter the texture of your fudge if not properly drained. Once thawed, gently pat them dry with paper towels before adding them into your mixture for optimal results. This adaptation will still yield delicious cherry fudge while allowing you flexibility with ingredient availability throughout the year.
Conclusion
In summary, crafting delightful cherry fudge requires attention to detail and quality ingredients at every step—from selection through preparation and storage practices. Avoid common pitfalls like rushing through measurements or overheating your mixture; these errors can significantly affect texture and taste. Allowing adequate cooling time ensures that each piece is cut perfectly without losing shape while offering maximum enjoyment to those who indulge in this sweet treat. Whether you choose variations with nuts or enjoy classic flavors on their own, following these guidelines will help you create perfect cherry fudge every time!
Cherry Fudge
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cherry Fudge is a delightful dessert that perfectly blends the rich, creamy taste of chocolate with the sweet and slightly tart flavor of cherries. This easy-to-make treat requires just a few simple ingredients, making it an accessible choice for bakers of all skill levels. In less than 30 minutes, you can prepare this luscious fudge, which then sets in the fridge while you enjoy some quality time with family or friends. Each bite delivers a heavenly combination of smooth chocolate and chewy dried cherries, creating an indulgent experience that’s sure to impress at any gathering.
Ingredients
- Sweetened Condensed Milk
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
- Dried Cherries
- Unsalted Butter
Instructions
- Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt together sweetened condensed milk and butter. Stir in chocolate chips until smooth.
- Remove from heat and fold in dried cherries until evenly distributed.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing it out with a spatula.
- Refrigerate for about 2 hours until firm.
- Lift the fudge out using the parchment paper and cut into squares.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
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