If you are on the lookout for a dessert that’s both charmingly sweet and decadently smooth, the White Chocolate Cherry Fudge Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dreamy treat combines luscious white chocolate with the tart, fruity burst of maraschino cherries, creating a flavor harmony that feels like a cozy hug in every bite. Perfectly creamy yet packed with texture, this fudge recipe is a showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to make, making it a perfect go-to for holidays, gifting, or just when you want to spoil yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this fudge is a joy in itself because each one plays a vital role in crafting the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and that irresistible creamy consistency. From the rich butter to the sweet tang of cherries, these essentials make the magic happen.
- 1/2 cup finely chopped maraschino cherries: Dried well, they add that burst of fruity tartness and a beautiful pop of color.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature: Provides a silky richness essential for smooth fudge texture.
- 2 cups sugar: The backbone of sweetness, it also helps with the perfect candy consistency.
- 3/4 cup heavy cream: Adds creaminess and helps achieve the luscious fudge body.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors softly.
- 1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips: The star ingredient providing that heavenly white chocolate flavor.
- 3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons marshmallow cream: Adds chewiness and helps create a fudgy yet tender bite.
- 1 drop pink food coloring: Just enough to tint your fudge a charming blush, elevating its visual appeal.
How to Make White Chocolate Cherry Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Cherries
Start by lining an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper. This little step ensures your fudge will come out easily without a sticky mess. While that’s resting, pat your chopped maraschino cherries dry with paper towels to remove extra moisture — this stops the fudge from becoming too wet and helps those cherries keep their delightful texture and shine.
Step 2: Combine Butter, Sugar, Cream, and Salt
In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, stir together the butter, sugar, heavy cream, and salt until everything melts into a velvety mixture. This melting process is key for creating that luscious base that will eventually transform into your creamy fudge.
Step 3: Boil to the Soft-Ball Stage
Bring your mixture to a gentle boil, then carefully place a candy thermometer in the pan. Stir frequently to prevent burning and watch closely until it reaches 235°F, which is known as the soft-ball stage in candy making. This precise temperature makes sure your fudge sets just right — firm but soft enough to melt in your mouth.
Step 4: Mix in White Chocolate and Marshmallow Cream
Remove the saucepan from heat, then immediately stir in the white chocolate chips and marshmallow cream. Stir continuously until the mixture is perfectly smooth and glossy. This blend is what gives your fudge that melt-in-your-mouth, indulgent feel with irresistible sweetness and chew.
Step 5: Color and Add Cherries
Add a single drop of pink food coloring and mix well for a delicate hue that brightens your fudge beautifully. Then gently fold in the dried maraschino cherries, ensuring they’re evenly distributed so every bite has a lovely surprise of fruity tenderness.
Step 6: Pour and Set
Pour your fudge mixture into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Patience really pays off here — let it set at room temperature for 3 to 4 hours until it’s firm and ready to enjoy. This waiting step is pure anticipation worth savoring!
Step 7: Cut and Serve
Once set, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper edges and cut into 1-inch squares. These perfectly portioned bites are ready to delight your taste buds or impress guests with your homemade confectionery skills.
How to Serve White Chocolate Cherry Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
While the fudge itself is a star, a sprinkle of extra finely chopped dried cherries or a dusting of powdered sugar can add an elegant touch. You could also drizzle a little melted dark chocolate over the top for contrast in both color and taste. These garnishes make serving this fudge feel extra special.
Side Dishes
This fudge pairs beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee, which complements its creamy sweetness perfectly. You can also serve alongside a fresh fruit platter or lightly salted nuts to balance flavors and textures on your dessert table.
Creative Ways to Present
Present your white chocolate cherry fudge in cute gift boxes tied with pastel ribbons or arrange the squares in a decorative tin for gifting at holidays or birthdays. Another fun idea is to stack the fudge on a pretty plate with fresh cherries scattered around, turning a simple treat into a festive centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to a week, keeping that perfect soft but firm texture each time you grab a piece.
Freezing
If you want to keep your fudge longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. When wrapped properly, it can last up to 3 months without losing its creamy deliciousness. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving for best results.
Reheating
Fudge actually tastes wonderful at room temperature and typically doesn’t require reheating. If it feels too firm after refrigeration or freezing, simply let it sit out for 20 minutes before enjoying to soften slightly without losing its structure.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Fresh cherries contain more moisture and don’t dry as well, which can affect the fudge’s consistency. Maraschino cherries are preferred because they maintain texture and flavor without adding excess liquid.
What if I don’t have marshmallow cream on hand?
You can substitute with an equal amount of marshmallow fluff or melted marshmallows, though the texture may vary slightly. The marshmallow component helps create a tender, chewy fudge texture.
Why is the candy thermometer important in this recipe?
Reaching the precise soft-ball stage temperature ensures the fudge will set correctly with the right firmness and softness. Without it, the texture might be too hard or too soft.
Can I make this fudge in different flavors?
Absolutely! You can swap the cherries for other dried fruits or nuts, or add extracts like almond or coconut to complement the white chocolate base. Just be mindful of moisture content.
Is the pink food coloring necessary?
Nope! The food coloring is purely for visual appeal and can be omitted if you prefer your fudge plain white or want to customize with other colors.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making and sharing the White Chocolate Cherry Fudge Recipe. It’s a delightful balance of creamy sweetness and fruit-forward brightness that feels homemade with love. Whether you’re treating yourself or gifting to loved ones, this fudge will instantly become one of your all-time favorites. Dive in, enjoy every bite, and let this easy but impressive recipe add a little extra joy to your day.
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White Chocolate Cherry Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 25 servings 1x
Description
This White Chocolate Cherry Fudge is a luscious, creamy treat combining sweet white chocolate with the tartness of dried maraschino cherries. Perfectly soft and smooth, this fudge is easy to make and sets beautifully at room temperature, making it a delightful homemade confection for holidays or special occasions.
Ingredients
Fudge Ingredients
- 1/2 cup finely chopped maraschino cherries, dried between paper towels for 30 minutes
- 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 Pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper to prevent the fudge from sticking and allow easy removal once set.
- Dry Cherries: Pat the chopped maraschino cherries dry with paper towels thoroughly to remove excess moisture, which helps prevent the fudge from becoming too soft.
- Combine Base Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, sugar, heavy cream, and salt. Stir the mixture over medium-high heat until the butter and sugar have completely melted and the ingredients are well blended.
- Boil Mixture and Monitor Temperature: Bring the mixture to a boil and insert a candy thermometer. Continue stirring frequently to avoid burning, until the temperature reaches 235°F, which is the soft-ball stage essential for proper fudge texture.
- Add Chocolate and Marshmallow Cream: Remove the saucepan from heat, then stir in the white chocolate chips and marshmallow cream until melted and the mixture is smooth and uniform in texture.
- Add Coloring and Cherries: Mix in one drop of pink food coloring until the color is evenly distributed. Gently fold in the dried maraschino cherries to incorporate them without crushing.
- Pour and Spread: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly for consistent thickness throughout the fudge.
- Set the Fudge: Allow the fudge to set at room temperature for 3 to 4 hours, giving it enough time to firm up properly before cutting.
- Cut and Serve: Once set and firm, cut the fudge into 1-inch squares and serve as a rich and festive treat.
Notes
- Drying the maraschino cherries is crucial to prevent excess moisture, which can make the fudge too soft.
- Use a candy thermometer for accuracy to achieve the perfect soft-ball stage.
- If you prefer a firmer fudge, allow it to set longer or refrigerate briefly after setting at room temperature.
- Marshmallow cream adds a smooth, creamy texture and helps with the fudge’s softness.
- Storing fudge in an airtight container at room temperature preserves its texture for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
