If you have a sweet tooth that loves a perfect blend of creamy richness and fruity bursts, this White Chocolate Cherry Fudge Recipe is exactly the treat you’ve been dreaming of. Imagine smooth white chocolate mingling with luscious, chopped maraschino cherries to create a fudge that’s irresistibly indulgent, delightfully pink, and wonderfully easy to make. Whether you’re planning a special occasion or just want to spoil yourself, this fudge combines simple ingredients into a sensational dessert that’s sure to impress and satisfy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward but essential ingredients is your first step toward making fudge that’s bursting with flavor and beautiful in every bite. Each item plays a key role, from the creamy texture of butter and cream to the sweet-tart punch of maraschino cherries that gives this fudge its unique character.
- Maraschino cherries (1/2 cup, finely chopped): Adds a juicy, colorful burst of fruity flavor, drained and dried to avoid excess moisture in the fudge.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, room temperature): Provides rich creaminess and helps achieve that luscious, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Sugar (2 cups): Sweetens perfectly and caramelizes gently to give fudge its classic texture.
- Heavy cream (3/4 cup): Brings smoothness and richness, ensuring every bite is decadently creamy.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
- White chocolate chips (1 1/2 cups): The superstar ingredient delivering that iconic sweet, milky white chocolate taste.
- Marshmallow cream (3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons): Adds fluffiness and helps the fudge set with a fantastically smooth finish.
- Pink food coloring (1 drop): Just a touch to give your fudge a beautiful blush that’s as pretty as it is delicious.
How to Make White Chocolate Cherry Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cherries
Start by finely chopping your maraschino cherries, then drain and pat them dry between several layers of paper towels for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial to keep your fudge from becoming too wet and helps concentrate the cherry flavor in every bite.
Step 2: Combine Butter, Sugar, Cream, and Salt
In a heavy saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the sugar, heavy cream, and salt, stirring consistently. Let the mixture come to a gentle boil and cook it for about 5 minutes, maintaining a steady stir to avoid scorching. This creates the sweet and creamy base for your fudge.
Step 3: Add White Chocolate and Marshmallow Cream
Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in your white chocolate chips until melted and smooth. Then fold in the marshmallow cream, stirring until it’s perfectly integrated, silky, and glossy. This gives the fudge its signature creamy texture and softness.
Step 4: Add Color and Cherries
Add a single drop of pink food coloring to the mixture to give your fudge a delicate, inviting blush. Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries, ensuring they’re evenly distributed without mashing them, so you get bursts of cherry goodness in every square.
Step 5: Set the Fudge
Pour the mixture into a buttered or parchment-lined pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Let the fudge cool at room temperature before placing it in the fridge to set for at least 2 hours, until firm but soft enough to cut cleanly into delightful squares.
How to Serve White Chocolate Cherry Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few extra finely chopped cherries or a dusting of powdered sugar over the top for a pretty garnish that adds a fresh look and a touch of extra sweetness. This also hints at the delightful flavors inside each fudge piece and makes it irresistible when presented.
Side Dishes
This fudge shines beautifully served alongside a cup of rich coffee or a light, floral tea like chamomile or jasmine. The creamy and fruity flavors balance perfectly with warm drinks, making them an ideal partner for afternoon treats or special gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the fudge squares on a pretty plate or arranging them into little gift boxes lined with parchment paper for charming homemade presents. You can also skewer small fudge cubes alternated with fresh cherries for an eye-catching dessert display that’s fun and easy to share at parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your White Chocolate Cherry Fudge Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for about one week. To maintain its best texture and flavor, store it somewhere cool and dry, away from sunlight or heat.
Freezing
If you want to make this fudge well in advance, you can freeze it by wrapping individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. It freezes well for up to 3 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Reheating
While fudge is best served chilled or at room temperature, if you like it softer, simply let it sit at room temperature for a bit before eating. Avoid microwaving, which can cause the fudge to lose its wonderful creamy texture and become grainy.
FAQs
Can I use dried cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
While dried cherries can be a substitute, they lack the juicy sweetness and vibrant color of maraschino cherries that make this recipe shine. If you do use dried cherries, soak them briefly to soften, but expect a different texture and flavor profile.
Is it necessary to use marshmallow cream?
Marshmallow cream is essential for achieving the soft, smooth texture typical of fudge. It helps the fudge set properly and gives it that irresistible fluffiness—omitting it may result in a denser, less creamy treat.
How do I prevent the fudge from becoming grainy?
Stir continuously while cooking the sugar mixture to avoid scorching, and be sure to remove from heat as soon as the chocolate melts fully. Also, precise measuring and using fresh ingredients help keep your fudge silky smooth.
Can I substitute dark or milk chocolate for white chocolate chips?
This recipe specifically highlights the creamy sweetness of white chocolate which pairs beautifully with cherries. Using dark or milk chocolate will change the flavor dramatically and may affect texture, but feel free to experiment for your own twist!
What’s the best way to cut fudge into neat squares?
Wait until the fudge is fully set and firm, then use a sharp knife warmed slightly in hot water to slice cleanly without sticking. Wipe the knife between cuts for perfectly neat pieces every time.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about making a homemade treat that looks as stunning as it tastes, and this White Chocolate Cherry Fudge Recipe is a perfect example of that. I can’t wait for you to try it and delight in the creamy texture, sweet-tart cherries, and gorgeous pink hue. Whether it’s for sharing or savoring all by yourself, this fudge will quickly become a favorite go-to dessert in your kitchen. Give it a try—you deserve that extra bit of sweetness in your day!
Print
White Chocolate Cherry Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 36 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This White Chocolate Cherry Fudge is a decadent, creamy treat combining the sweetness of white chocolate with the tangy bite of maraschino cherries. Smooth marshmallow cream and rich butter blend seamlessly to create a luscious texture, while a touch of pink food coloring adds a festive hue, perfect for holiday gifting or special occasions.
Ingredients
Cherries
- 1/2 cup finely chopped maraschino cherries, dried between several paper towels for about 30 minutes
Fudge Base
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 cups sugar
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips
- 3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons marshmallow cream
- 1 drop pink food coloring
Instructions
- Prepare Cherries: Finely chop the maraschino cherries and place them between several layers of paper towels to dry out any excess moisture for approximately 30 minutes. This step prevents the fudge from becoming too wet.
- Melt Sugar Mixture: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, butter, heavy cream, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the butter has melted and the sugar is fully dissolved. Bring mixture to a gentle boil and allow to cook for about 5 minutes while stirring, ensuring the sugar reaches the soft-ball stage to achieve the right fudge texture.
- Add White Chocolate and Marshmallow Cream: Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately stir in the white chocolate chips and marshmallow cream until completely melted and smooth. This will create a creamy, glossy fudge base.
- Incorporate Cherries and Color: Stir in the dried chopped cherries and add one drop of pink food coloring. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute both the cherries and the color throughout the fudge.
- Set the Fudge: Pour the fudge mixture into a prepared, greased or parchment-lined 8×8 inch pan. Spread evenly with a spatula and let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours until firm.
- Serve: Once set, cut the fudge into 36 small squares and serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Drying the cherries thoroughly is crucial to avoid excess moisture that can affect the fudge’s texture.
- Use high-quality white chocolate chips to ensure a smooth and rich flavor.
- Adjust the pink food coloring quantity to achieve your desired shade.
- Fudge can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- For a nutty twist, consider adding 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts along with the cherries.
