If you’re looking to dazzle at your next gathering or just want a sweet treat that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious, you simply have to try White Chocolate Cherry Fudge! Creamy white chocolate melts perfectly together with vibrant dried cherries, with a subtle almond aroma weaving through every bite. Each square is rich, tangy, velvety, and studded with chewy, tart fruits—making it a showstopper both on the dessert table and as a homemade gift. White Chocolate Cherry Fudge is truly a celebration of color, texture, and the pure joy of homemade confections.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Pulling off amazing White Chocolate Cherry Fudge is all about a handful of high-impact ingredients. Every item on this list has a job—whether that’s making the fudge smooth, lending fruity brightness, or adding a satisfying crunch.
- White Chocolate Chips: The superstar of this fudge, they provide that creamy base and luscious sweetness that sets this treat apart.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This makes the fudge dense, silky, and perfectly sweet without the need for extra sugar.
- Almond Extract: Just a small dash gives the White Chocolate Cherry Fudge its signature aroma and enhances every flavor note.
- Dried Cherries: Chopped and sprinkled throughout, they offer a tart chewy contrast in every bite.
- Chopped Toasted Almonds (optional): If you love a bit of crunch and a toasty, nutty perfume, don’t leave these out!
- Pinch of Salt: It balances the sweetness and pulls all the creamy, tangy flavors together.
How to Make White Chocolate Cherry Fudge
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
To guarantee beautiful, easy-to-lift fudge squares, line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, making sure there’s a little overhang on two sides. This clever trick means you can simply lift your chilled White Chocolate Cherry Fudge right out in one piece, ready for neat slicing.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Milk
Combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a medium saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly—don’t walk away!—until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is glossy, smooth, and unified. The gentle heat is essential for preventing scorching and keeping the fudge decadently creamy.
Step 3: Flavor and Mix-Ins
Remove that dreamy chocolate mixture from heat and immediately stir in the almond extract, salt, chopped dried cherries, and, if you desire extra texture, the toasted almonds. Mix thoroughly to ensure those jewel-like cherries and nutty bits are distributed evenly throughout your soon-to-be crowd-pleaser.
Step 4: Pour and Smooth
Pour the mixture into your parchment-lined pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Take a moment to smooth the top so your finished White Chocolate Cherry Fudge will cut into perfect, photogenic squares. Don’t worry if a cherry pokes through—they look gorgeous!
Step 5: Chill Until Set
Slide the pan into the refrigerator and chill for at least 3 hours, or until the fudge is firm and set. This is the hardest part—the waiting! Chilling not only gives you clean, sharp cuts but ensures each square holds its beautiful shape.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once set, use the parchment overhang to lift your fudge slab out onto a cutting board. Slice into bite-sized squares (a sharp knife helps!) and admire your handiwork. Each piece of White Chocolate Cherry Fudge will be creamy white with pops of ruby red and toasty almond accents.
How to Serve White Chocolate Cherry Fudge
Garnishes
A sprinkle of finely chopped toasted almonds or a dusting of powdered sugar can make each square look extra special. For deeper contrast, drizzle melted dark chocolate lightly over the top before chilling. Fresh or dried cherry halves placed atop each piece turn your fudge into a bite-sized gift.
Side Dishes
A little goes a long way with fudge, so serve thin slices alongside a bowl of fresh fruit (think strawberries or grapes), or offer as an accompaniment to coffee, espresso, or after-dinner cocktails. A tart lemon sorbet or a scoop of vanilla ice cream balances out the fudge’s richness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform White Chocolate Cherry Fudge into sweet gifts by packing squares in decorative boxes or cellophane bags tied with ribbon—perfect for holidays or thank-you treats. Arrange on a tiered serving platter for a dessert buffet, or pop a few cubes onto skewer sticks for a playful twist at parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
White Chocolate Cherry Fudge keeps beautifully! Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Layer parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking and preserve those gorgeous edges.
Freezing
For longer storage, fudge freezes exceptionally well. Wrap the pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when the craving strikes.
Reheating
No need to reheat White Chocolate Cherry Fudge—it’s best enjoyed straight from the fridge or at room temperature. If you’d like a slightly softer bite, simply let it sit out for a few minutes before serving. Heating can cause the texture to change, so it’s best avoided.
FAQs
Can I substitute a different extract for almond?
Absolutely! Vanilla extract works wonderfully and gives a classic fudge flavor. Try orange or cherry extract for a fun twist, but almond truly brings out the best in the cherries and white chocolate.
Do I have to use toasted almonds?
Not at all! They’re optional for added crunch and flavor, but the fudge is exceptionally delicious both with and without them. You can also swap in pistachios or leave nuts out entirely for a nut-free treat.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?
Dried cherries work best because they won’t release extra moisture into the fudge, keeping the texture dense and stable. Fresh cherries can make the fudge weep and won’t hold up nicely once sliced.
How do I keep my fudge from getting grainy?
Gentle, low heat is the secret! Stir the chocolate and condensed milk mixture constantly and avoid boiling. Overheating can cause the sugar to crystallize, which leads to a grainy fudge.
Can I double the batch for a party?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. Just be sure to check that the fudge has set fully before slicing, as thicker layers may take a bit longer to chill.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so delightful about sharing a plate of homemade White Chocolate Cherry Fudge—every square is a sweet little gift, bursting with creamy chocolate, tangy cherries, and that unmistakable almond aroma. Whether you’re making it for a celebration or just treating yourself, give this fudge a try. You’ll be amazed at just how simple and magical a handful of ingredients can be!
Print
White Chocolate Cherry Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 36 pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
Indulge in the creamy sweetness of White Chocolate Cherry Fudge, a decadent treat perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-make fudge combines the rich flavor of white chocolate with the tartness of dried cherries and a hint of almond extract, creating a delightful flavor combination that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients
White Chocolate Cherry Fudge:
- 3 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 cup chopped dried cherries
- 1/2 cup chopped toasted almonds (optional)
- pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Fudge Mixture: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. In a saucepan over low heat, melt white chocolate chips with sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- Add Flavor and Texture: Stir in almond extract, salt, dried cherries, and almonds (if using).
- Set the Fudge: Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared dish and chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours.
- Serve: Once set, cut into squares and enjoy!
Notes
- For a holiday twist, try dried cranberries instead of cherries.
- Enhance flavor by drizzling melted dark chocolate on top before chilling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
