Decadent, incredibly rich, and loaded with crunchy nuts and tangy cherries, Cherry Garcia Fudge is the dessert that always sets hearts aflutter at the dessert table! Imagine biting into velvety smooth chocolate, punctuated by bursts of sweet cherries and robust chocolate chunks—a treat as irresistible for holiday gatherings as it is for quiet nights at home. If you’re a fan of that famous ice cream flavor, you’ll adore how these fudge squares capture the magic in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for Cherry Garcia Fudge couldn’t be easier, yet every item brings its own delicious role. The mix of chocolate, cherries, and nuts weaves an unforgettable taste and texture tapestry that turns a simple fudge into something spectacular.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Delivers the rich, smooth chocolate base that makes each bite utterly satisfying.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds the essential creaminess and sweetness, binding everything together beautifully.
- Unsalted butter: Provides a silky texture and depth of flavor—just a touch goes a long way.
- Vanilla extract: Boosts the overall flavor profile with warm, aromatic tones.
- Dried cherries (roughly chopped): Lend chewy, tart pops of fruit throughout—the “cherry” in Cherry Garcia Fudge!
- Chopped almonds or walnuts: Add delightful crunch and a nutty contrast to balance the sweetness.
- Chopped dark chocolate or mini chocolate chunks: Provide extra chocolatey bursts for a layered chocolate experience.
How to Make Cherry Garcia Fudge
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring the edges hang over the sides. This trick makes it easy to lift the fudge out once it’s set—less mess, more fudge!
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Base Ingredients
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter. Stir constantly, being careful not to let anything scorch. The mixture should look glossy and luxuriously smooth.
Step 3: Add the Flavors
Remove the pan from the heat, then stir in the vanilla extract. Next, fold in the dried cherries, chopped nuts, and dark chocolate chunks. The fudge base will begin to look incredibly inviting, studded with colorful bits of cherry and melty chocolate pieces.
Step 4: Pour and Chill
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and smooth it out evenly with a spatula. Pop the pan into the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 hours. This wait may feel endless, but it’s worth it for perfectly set Cherry Garcia Fudge.
Step 5: Slice and Enjoy
Once the fudge is firm, use the parchment “handles” to lift it out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and slice into small squares. Admire all those beautiful cherry and chocolate chunks!
How to Serve Cherry Garcia Fudge
Garnishes
For an extra special finish, sprinkle the tops with a few chopped cherries or a dusting of cocoa powder just before serving. A drizzle of white chocolate makes for a festive flourish!
Side Dishes
Serve your Cherry Garcia Fudge alongside a platter of fresh berries or a bowl of vanilla bean ice cream for a harmonious dessert duo. A piping hot cup of coffee or a glass of red wine pairs beautifully, too.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange squares in colorful mini cupcake liners for a sweet gift box, or layer them inside a glass jar for a rustic, homemade vibe. For the holidays, tie up a pretty stack with baker’s twine—they’re guaranteed to impress!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover Cherry Garcia Fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Chilling helps the fudge maintain its fudgy, chewy texture, and locks in those sweet, fruity notes.
Freezing
Fudge freezes beautifully! Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw pieces overnight in the fridge whenever a craving strikes.
Reheating
You typically don’t need to reheat Cherry Garcia Fudge, but if you love a meltier texture, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the fudge grainy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?
Yes! Fresh, pitted cherries give a juicier bite, but be aware that the fudge should be eaten within 2–3 days since fresh fruit shortens its shelf life a bit.
What nuts work best in Cherry Garcia Fudge?
Almonds and walnuts are classic choices, adding crunch and earthiness. Pecans can also be a tasty swap if you prefer their milder flavor.
Is it possible to make this fudge without nuts?
Of course! Simply omit the nuts for a nut-free version—your Cherry Garcia Fudge will still be rich and satisfyingly chewy.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Definitely! Just use a larger pan or two 8×8-inch pans, and keep all ratios the same. The chilling time might be slightly longer for thicker fudge.
How do I cut clean, even squares of fudge?
For the neatest slices, dip a sharp knife in hot water and wipe it dry between each cut. This prevents sticking and gives your Cherry Garcia Fudge those irresistible bakery-shop edges.
Final Thoughts
Trust me—once you try this Cherry Garcia Fudge, it’ll become a staple in your treat repertoire! It’s a joyful blend of iconic flavors, incredibly easy to make, and certain to delight anyone lucky enough to grab a square. Don’t wait for a special occasion—let the magic of chocolate and cherries add sparkle to your day!
Print
Cherry Garcia Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 36 small squares 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the luscious and decadent Cherry Garcia Fudge, a delightful treat combining rich chocolate, sweet cherries, crunchy nuts, and chunks of dark chocolate. This no-bake dessert is perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings!
Ingredients
Main Fudge Base:
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-Ins:
- 1/2 cup dried cherries (roughly chopped)
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds or walnuts
- 1/2 cup chopped dark chocolate or mini chocolate chunks
Instructions
- Prepare the Fudge Base: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. In a saucepan over low heat, melt chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter, stirring until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Remove from heat, add vanilla, cherries, nuts, and chocolate chunks. Mix well.
- Set Fudge: Spread mixture in the dish, chill for 2 hours until firm.
- Serve: Lift fudge out using parchment, cut into squares.
Notes
- You can use fresh cherries for a softer texture, but consume quickly.
- For nut-free, omit almonds/walnuts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
