Whimsical Cherry White Chocolate Fudge Recipe for Dreamers

Sweet treats have a magical way of blending classic maraschino cherry white chocolate fudge flavors into pure decadence.

Bursts of vibrant cherry color peek through creamy white chocolate layers, creating a visual and tasty sensation.

The soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture promises an irresistible dessert experience.

Delicate cherries add a playful twist to traditional fudge recipes.

Each square brings a rich, luxurious combination of sweetness and subtle tartness.

The recipe transforms simple ingredients into an elegant confection that sparkles with festive charm.

Prepare to indulge in a dessert that will delight everyone at your gathering.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 3 hours

Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes

Calories: 202 kcal

Servings: 24

What’s Inside Maraschino Cherry White Chocolate Fudge

• White Chocolate Chips: Provides rich, creamy foundation with luxurious sweetness and smooth texture.
• Butter: Adds silky richness and helps create smooth, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.

• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Creates ultra-creamy texture and provides perfect sweetness without granulated sugar.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor profile with warm, comforting aromatic notes.
• Almond Extract: Optional ingredient that introduces subtle nutty undertone for sophisticated flavor complexity.

• Maraschino Cherries: Brings vibrant color, sweet-tart burst of flavor, and playful visual appeal to classic fudge.
• Sprinkles: Optional decorative element that adds festive, cheerful touch and extra visual interest.
• Parchment Paper: Essential for easy removal and clean cutting of fudge without sticking.

Equipment to Make Cherry White Chocolate Fudge Easily

• 8×8-inch baking dish: Perfect for creating a neat, uniform fudge layer.
• Parchment paper: Essential for easy removal and clean cutting of fudge.
• Large heatproof bowl: Needed for melting white chocolate and mixing ingredients.
• Double boiler or microwave: Helps melt chocolate smoothly without burning.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: Great for stirring and folding ingredients gently.
• Sharp knife: Used for cutting fudge into precise, clean squares.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient measurements.

Instructions to Create Maraschino Cherry White Chocolate Fudge

• Prep the Baking Surface

Line a square pan with parchment paper, ensuring smooth edges for easy fudge removal and clean cutting later.

• Melt Chocolate Base

Use a double boiler or microwave to gently melt white chocolate and butter, stirring consistently until silky and uniform.

• Create Creamy Mixture

Pour sweetened condensed milk into melted chocolate, blending smoothly to create a luxurious foundation for your fudge.

• Enhance Flavor Profile

Add vanilla extract and a hint of almond extract, stirring carefully to distribute aromatic notes throughout the mixture.

• Introduce Cherry Surprise

Softly fold chopped maraschino cherries into the white chocolate base, maintaining their vibrant color and delicate texture.

• Shape and Decorate

Transfer fudge mixture into prepared pan, spreading evenly and garnishing with extra cherry pieces for visual appeal.

• Chill and Slice

Refrigerate for several hours until firm, then lift parchment paper and cut into bite-sized squares for a delightful treat.

Flavor Enhancements for Cherry White Chocolate Fudge

• Mix-in more cherries for an extra fruity punch that'll make taste buds dance.
• Chop cherries into different sizes to create varied texture and unexpected bursts of flavor in each bite.
• Decorate fudge squares with white chocolate drizzle or colorful sprinkles for a celebration-ready dessert that looks as good as it tastes.
• Swap white chocolate chips and butter with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and vegan white chocolate to make this treat accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
• Keep fudge fresh by storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for longer preservation – perfect for make-ahead dessert lovers.

Serving Tips for Maraschino Cherry White Chocolate Fudge

• Party Platter Perfection: Create an elegant dessert display with these fudge squares arranged on a decorative white platter, garnished with fresh mint leaves and a light dusting of powdered sugar for a stunning presentation.
• Holiday Gift Glamour: Package the fudge in clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons, perfect for homemade edible gifts during Christmas, Valentine's Day, or birthday celebrations.
• Dessert Companion Delight: Serve alongside vanilla bean ice cream or pair with a warm cup of chamomile tea for a luxurious sweet moment that elevates the entire tasting experience.
• Brunch Showstopper: Include these colorful fudge squares on a brunch dessert board with other bite-sized treats, creating a visually appealing and delectable spread that will impress guests.

Keeping Your Cherry White Chocolate Fudge Fresh

• Store the white chocolate cherry fudge in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper to prevent sticking. Keep refrigerated for maximum freshness, maintaining its delightful texture and preventing potential spoilage.
• Wrap individual fudge pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place inside a freezer-safe container. Freeze up to 3 months for future enjoyment. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to maintain optimal taste and consistency.
• Cut fudge into bite-sized squares before storing. This approach makes grabbing a quick treat easier and helps control serving sizes. Smaller portions also prevent repeated cutting and potential texture disruption.
• Never leave fudge at room temperature for extended periods. White chocolate and maraschino cherries are sensitive ingredients that can quickly lose quality. Keep chilled and consume within 7-10 days for the best flavor experience.

FAQs

• Are maraschino cherries safe to eat in this fudge?

The maraschino cherries are completely safe and add a delightful pop of color and flavor to the white chocolate fudge. They’re typically preserved and can be enjoyed directly in desserts.

• Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

No, fresh cherries won’t work in this recipe. Maraschino cherries have a specific moisture and sugar content that helps them blend perfectly with the fudge without making it watery.

• How do I prevent the cherries from sinking to the bottom of the fudge?

Gently fold the chopped cherries into the mixture and avoid overstirring. You can also lightly coat the cherries in a bit of flour before adding them to help distribute them evenly throughout the fudge.

• What kind of white chocolate should I use for best results?

Use high-quality white chocolate chips or baking chocolate with a good cocoa butter content. Avoid using white chocolate candy melts, as they won’t provide the same rich, creamy texture needed for perfect fudge.

Dreamy Maraschino Cherry White Chocolate Fudge Recipe

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4.7 from 21 reviews

• Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 25 1x

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Description

Maraschino cherry white chocolate fudge brings holiday magic to dessert tables with festive charm. Sweet cherry pieces nestled in creamy white chocolate create a delightful treat you can enjoy during special celebrations.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups (525 g) white chocolate chips
• 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup (150 g) maraschino cherries, drained, patted dry, and chopped
• 1 tbsp maraschino cherry juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp almond extract
• 1 pinch of salt
• Extra chopped cherries
• White chocolate drizzle

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Line a baking pan with parchment paper, extending over the edges for effortless removal and precise cutting.
2. Chocolate Melting: Melt white chocolate chips and butter using a double boiler or microwave, stirring continuously until achieving a silky, homogeneous consistency with zero lumps.
3. Liquid Integration: Blend sweetened condensed milk into the molten chocolate, whisking gently to create a harmonious, velvety mixture without aggressive stirring.
4. Flavor Enhancement: Incorporate vanilla and almond extracts, ensuring complete dispersion throughout the creamy base for a nuanced taste profile.
5. Cherry Incorporation: Delicately fold chopped maraschino cherries into the fudge, distributing them uniformly while preserving their vibrant color and distinct texture.
6. Setting and Chilling: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Garnish with additional cherries or decorative elements if desired. Refrigerate for 2-3 hours until the fudge achieves a firm, sliceable consistency.

Notes

• Prevent Chocolate Seizing: Melt white chocolate slowly and gently to avoid burning or clumping, using low heat and constant stirring for smooth consistency.
• Cherry Color Preservation: Drain maraschino cherries thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture from bleeding color into the fudge.
• Temperature Control: Allow fudge to cool at room temperature for 15 minutes before refrigerating to prevent condensation and maintain proper texture.
• Cutting Technique: Use a sharp, clean knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts for clean, precise fudge squares without crumbling.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 25
• Calories: 144
• Sugar: 18 g
• Sodium: 27 mg
• Fat: 6 g
• Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Fiber: 0.5 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 8 mg