Did You Know 72% of People Prefer White Chocolate Fudge Over Traditional Dark Chocolate?
It’s true! While dark chocolate often steals the spotlight in dessert conversations, there’s something undeniably magical about the creamy, dreamy allure of white chocolate fudge. And when you add the vibrant pop of maraschino cherries into the mix? Pure bliss. Today, I’m sharing my recipe for Irresistible Maraschino Cherry White Chocolate Fudges—a treat so decadent, it might just convert the remaining 28% of dark chocolate loyalists.
Picture this: velvety white chocolate melting on your tongue, punctuated by juicy bursts of cherry sweetness. It’s like a winter wonderland and a summer berry patch had the most delicious love child. These fudges are perfect for holiday gifting, afternoon tea indulgences, or those moments when you need a little pick-me-up wrapped in pink-tinted joy.
What makes this recipe extra special is how the tartness of the cherries cuts through the richness of the white chocolate, creating that perfect balance we all crave in desserts. And here’s a secret—using quality maraschino cherries (the ones with stems you find in specialty stores) makes all the difference. Their deep, complex flavor elevates these fudges from simple sweets to conversation-starting confections.
Why This Recipe Will Become Your New Holiday Tradition
Every December, my kitchen becomes a fudge factory as I whip up batches of these cherry-studded delights. There’s something nostalgic about maraschino cherries—they remind me of ice cream sundaes at my grandmother’s house and vintage cocktail parties. When folded into white chocolate fudge, they create little pockets of joy that make people’s eyes light up with the first bite.
What I love most about this recipe is how approachable it is. Unlike temperamental French macarons or finicky soufflés, fudge is wonderfully forgiving. Even if you’re new to candy-making, you’ll find success with these simple steps. The hardest part? Waiting for the fudge to set before cutting into it (though I won’t judge if you sneak a taste straight from the pan).
Irresistible Maraschino Cherry White Chocolate Fudges
A delightful and creamy white chocolate fudge studded with sweet maraschino cherries for a burst of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 3 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir continuously until melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, chopped cherries, and nuts (if using).
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm. Cut into squares before serving.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste.
Irresistible Maraschino Cherry White Chocolate Fudges
There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of sweet white chocolate and tangy maraschino cherries. These little squares of fudge are not just a treat—they’re tiny bites of nostalgia, perfect for gifting, sharing, or (let’s be honest) savoring all to yourself. The best part? They come together in minutes with just a handful of ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 cups white chocolate chips – Go for a high-quality brand here; it makes all the difference in texture and flavor.
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk – The secret to that melt-in-your-mouth creaminess.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter – Softened, so it blends seamlessly into the fudge.
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract – A little warmth to balance the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, drained & chopped – Pat them dry well to avoid excess moisture in your fudge.
- 1-2 tbsp reserved cherry juice – For that gorgeous pink swirl (and extra cherry flavor!).
- Pinch of salt – Just a whisper to elevate all the flavors.
Let’s Make Some Fudge!
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides. This makes lifting out the fudge so much easier—trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.
Step 2: Melt the Goodness
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir constantly (yes, no breaks!) until everything is silky smooth. Remove from heat immediately—overheating white chocolate can make it grainy.
Step 3: Flavor Time
Stir in the vanilla extract and that pinch of salt. Now, here’s where the magic happens: gently fold in those chopped cherries. If you want that dreamy pink swirl, drizzle in a tablespoon of cherry juice and lightly swirl it through with a knife—don’t overmix!
Step 4: Set & Forget
Pour the mixture into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Let it cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes, then pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours (or until firm). I know, waiting is the hardest part!
Conclusion
There you have it—a simple yet decadent recipe for Maraschino Cherry White Chocolate Fudges that’s sure to delight your taste buds and impress anyone lucky enough to try them. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a batch of these creamy, cherry-studded treats that are perfect for gifting, parties, or indulging in a little self-care moment.
Ready to give this recipe a try? We’d love to hear how yours turns out! Snap a photo and tag us on social media, or leave a comment below sharing your experience. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out our other irresistible dessert ideas, like Salted Caramel Brownies or Peppermint Bark Truffles.
FAQs
Can I use dark or milk chocolate instead of white chocolate?
Absolutely! While white chocolate pairs beautifully with the tartness of maraschino cherries, you can substitute it with dark or milk chocolate for a richer flavor. Just keep in mind that the sweetness level may vary, so adjust the sugar if needed.
How long do these fudges stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these fudges will stay fresh for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months—just thaw in the fridge before serving.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Maraschino cherries work best for this recipe because they’re sweet, soft, and hold their shape well. Fresh cherries contain more moisture, which could affect the texture of the fudge. If you’d like to experiment, try drying fresh cherries slightly before using them.
Why is my fudge too soft or not setting properly?
If your fudge isn’t setting, it may be due to insufficient cooking time or inaccurate measurements. Make sure to heat the mixture until it reaches the soft-ball stage (235°F on a candy thermometer) and allow it to cool completely before cutting. If it’s still too soft, a brief stint in the fridge should help firm it up.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Definitely! Chopped almonds, pecans, or even shredded coconut would add a lovely crunch and extra flavor. Just fold them in along with the cherries for a delicious twist.
