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
Scale
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
