Inspired by the iconic ice cream flavor, this Cherry Garcia Fudge combines the richness of white chocolate, the tart sweetness of cherries, and the boldness of dark chocolate. It’s an easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for holidays, gifting, or any time you need a sweet indulgence!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: No baking required—just melt, mix, and chill.
- Flavor-packed: A delightful mix of creamy white chocolate, tangy cherries, and bold dark chocolate.
- Perfect for sharing: A great treat for holidays, parties, or edible gifts.
- Customizable: Adjust the cherry-to-chocolate ratio to your liking!
Ingredients
- 2 cups white chocolate (chopped or chips)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dried cherries (roughly chopped)
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries (halved and drained)
- 1/3 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Small square baking dish (8×8-inch)
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fudge Base
- In a medium saucepan, combine the white chocolate and sweetened condensed milk.
- Heat over low heat, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. Be careful not to overheat, as white chocolate can burn easily.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 2: Mix in the Cherries and Chocolate
- Gently fold in the dried cherries, maraschino cherries, and chocolate chips. Stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the fudge base.
Step 3: Set the Fudge
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
- Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours, or until it is firm and set.
Step 4: Serve
- Once the fudge is fully set, lift it out of the baking dish using the parchment paper overhang.
- Cut the fudge into small squares and serve.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Enjoy the fudge chilled or at room temperature. It’s perfect with a cup of coffee or as a post-dinner treat.
- Storage: Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: You can freeze the fudge for up to 3 months. Wrap the squares individually in parchment paper and store in a freezer-safe container.
Variations
- Nutty twist: Add 1/4 cup chopped almonds or pistachios for added crunch.
- Cherry swap: Use dried cranberries or mixed dried berries for a unique flavor twist.
- Dark chocolate base: Substitute white chocolate with dark chocolate for a richer fudge.
- Extra topping: Sprinkle sea salt or drizzle melted chocolate over the top before refrigerating.
Helpful Notes
- Make sure to drain the maraschino cherries thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the fudge.
- Chopping the dried cherries and maraschino cherries into smaller pieces ensures even distribution and better flavor in every bite.
- Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor and texture.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Tip 1 (Ina Garten): Always use pure vanilla extract for a deeper, more aromatic flavor.
- Chef Tip 2 (Mary Berry): Line the baking dish neatly with parchment paper, making it easier to remove and cut the fudge cleanly.
- Chef Tip 3 (Nigella Lawson): Add a small splash of cherry liqueur to the fudge base for an adult-friendly treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried or maraschino cherries?
A: Fresh cherries are not recommended as they add too much moisture, which can affect the texture of the fudge.
Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Yes! Use dairy-free white chocolate and sweetened condensed coconut milk for a vegan-friendly version.
Q: What size baking dish should I use?
A: An 8×8-inch dish works best, but you can use a slightly larger or smaller dish for thinner or thicker fudge pieces.
Q: Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?
A: Absolutely! Dark chocolate adds a richer contrast to the sweetness of the fudge.
Q: How long does the fudge need to chill?
A: At least 2 hours, but overnight chilling ensures the best texture.
This Cherry Garcia Fudge is an easy, decadent treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. With its creamy texture, vibrant cherry flavors, and pops of dark chocolate, it’s a dessert you’ll want to make again and again.