Description
This Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge is a luscious, creamy dessert combining the tropical flavors of pineapple and maraschino cherries with decadent white chocolate and sweetened condensed milk. Infused with vanilla and almond extracts and a splash of cherry juice, this no-bake fudge is perfect for a crowd, offering 24 servings of sweet, fruity delight with a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1/4 cup maraschino cherry juice (from jar)
Fruit Mix-ins
- 1/4 cup crushed pineapple (drained well)
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
- 1/4 cup pineapple chunks, drained and chopped
Optional Nuts
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving a little overhang for easy removal of the fudge. Set aside.
- Melt the White Chocolate: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, white chocolate chips, and sweetened condensed milk together. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and completely melted.
- Add Flavorings: Remove the saucepan from the heat, then stir in the vanilla extract, almond extract if using, and maraschino cherry juice, mixing well to incorporate all flavors.
- Add Pineapple and Cherries: Gently fold in the crushed pineapple, chopped maraschino cherries, pineapple chunks, and optional chopped pecans until evenly distributed, being careful not to break up the pineapple pieces too much.
- Chill the Fudge: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it into an even layer. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours until the fudge is firm and set.
- Slice and Serve: Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper or foil overhang. Slice into small squares and serve chilled for a creamy, tropical dessert treat.
Notes
- Ensure pineapple is well drained to prevent the fudge from becoming too watery.
- For a nut-free version, omit the pecans.
- Use high-quality white chocolate chips for the best flavor and texture.
- The almond extract is optional but adds a nice complementary flavor.
- Keep fudge refrigerated until ready to serve for optimal firmness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American