Indulge in the sweet, rich taste of Chocolate Cherry Fudge! This easy recipe will impress your friends and family. Made with simple ingredients, you can enjoy a treat that combines the creaminess of chocolate with the burst of cherry flavor. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro in the kitchen, I’ll guide you with step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations to customize your fudge. Let’s dive into this delightful dessert!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries creates a perfect balance of sweetness and depth that is hard to resist.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal ingredients and simple steps, this fudge can be made in just 15 minutes, making it a great last-minute treat.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite nuts or swapping the cherries for other fruits, making it versatile.
- Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields 16 squares, making it ideal for gatherings, parties, or as a delightful gift for friends and family.
Ingredients
Complete list of ingredients
To make the best chocolate cherry fudge, gather these simple items:
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Ingredient details
Fresh cherries give the fudge a bright, juicy taste. They add a nice texture. If cherries are out of season, frozen cherries work well too. Just thaw and chop them. For chocolate, semi-sweet chips melt smoothly. You can also use dark chocolate chips if you prefer a richer flavor.
Substitutions
If you need nut-free options, skip the walnuts. The fudge will still taste great. For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut milk instead of sweetened condensed milk. These swaps keep the fudge creamy and delicious without dairy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of baking dish
To start, grab an 8×8 inch baking dish. Line it with parchment paper. Make sure the paper hangs over the edges. This helps you lift the fudge out later. Smooth the paper to avoid lumps. This step makes it easy to cut and serve.
Melting chocolate and combining ingredients
Next, take a medium saucepan. Add 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Pour in one can of sweetened condensed milk. Add a pinch of salt for flavor. Heat them over low heat. Stir the mix often until the chocolate melts. You want a smooth mixture. Remove the pan from the heat. Add one teaspoon of vanilla extract and stir it in well.
Mixing in cherries and walnuts
Now, it’s time to fold in the fun stuff! Take one cup of chopped cherries. You can use fresh or frozen ones. If you like, add half a cup of chopped walnuts. Gently mix them into the chocolate. Ensure they are evenly spread throughout. This adds great flavor and texture to your fudge.
Setting and cutting the fudge
Pour the chocolate cherry mix into your prepared dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Now, place the dish in the fridge. Chill it for at least 2 hours. This helps the fudge set. Once it is firm, lift it out using the parchment paper. Cut the fudge into squares. Enjoy your sweet treat!
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring the perfect texture
To get a smooth fudge, melt chocolate chips slowly. Use low heat, and stir often. This keeps the chocolate from burning. Adding sweetened condensed milk helps create a creamy texture. Always mix it well until smooth before adding other ingredients. Chilling helps set the fudge, so don’t rush this step.
Common mistakes to avoid
One common mistake is using too much heat. High heat can cause the chocolate to seize up. Make sure you measure your ingredients carefully. If you skip the salt, the flavor may fall flat. Also, don’t forget to line your baking dish. This makes removing the fudge easy.
How to enhance flavors
You can enhance flavors by using good quality chocolate chips. Try adding a pinch of sea salt on top for contrast. If you love nuts, add toasted walnuts for a deeper taste. Experiment with different extracts like almond or orange. Cherries are sweet, but you can also use tart ones for a fun twist.
Pro Tips
- Use Quality Chocolate: The flavor of your fudge largely depends on the quality of chocolate you use. Opt for high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips for the best results.
- Chill for Firmness: Make sure to chill the fudge for at least 2 hours or until completely set. This ensures that it firms up properly and is easy to cut into squares.
- Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to get creative! Try adding other mix-ins like dried fruits or different nuts to customize your fudge to your taste.
- Storage Tips: Store your fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. This keeps it fresh and delicious for longer.
Variations
Adding different nuts or fruits
You can change the nuts or fruits in this fudge. Almonds or pecans add a nice crunch. For fruits, try diced strawberries or raspberries. Each option gives a new taste. I love how walnuts mix with cherries, but feel free to get creative.
Flavor variations (mint, orange zest)
For a fresh twist, add mint or orange zest. A few drops of mint extract gives a cool taste. Orange zest adds a bright, citrus flavor. Both options make your fudge special. Play with these flavors to find your favorite combination.
Dietary-specific variations (vegan, gluten-free)
You can make this fudge vegan and gluten-free with a few swaps. Use dairy-free chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet chips. Coconut milk can replace sweetened condensed milk. Always check the labels to ensure they fit your needs. These changes help everyone enjoy this treat!
Storage Info
Best storage practices for freshness
To keep your chocolate cherry fudge fresh, store it in an airtight container. Line the container with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Place a layer of fudge in the container, then add more parchment between layers. This keeps the fudge from sticking together. Store it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. The fridge is also a great option.
How long does chocolate cherry fudge last?
When stored correctly, chocolate cherry fudge can last up to two weeks at room temperature. If you keep it in the fridge, it can last for about three weeks. Just make sure to check for any signs of spoilage, like changes in texture or smell.
Freezing options and reheating suggestions
You can freeze chocolate cherry fudge for up to three months. Cut it into squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Place all the wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag. When you want to enjoy some, just take out a piece and let it thaw at room temperature. There’s no need to reheat it, as fudge tastes great cold or at room temp.
FAQs
Can I use other types of chocolate?
Yes, you can use different chocolate types. Dark chocolate adds a rich taste. Milk chocolate makes it sweeter. White chocolate gives a creamy flavor. Each type changes the fudge’s taste. Mix and match to find your favorite.
What can I substitute for sweetened condensed milk?
You can use coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Use almond milk with sugar for a sweet taste. Evaporated milk works too, but it’s less sweet. Adjust sugar to match your taste. Each substitute will change the fudge texture a bit.
How do I know when the fudge is set?
Check if the fudge is firm to the touch. It should not stick to your fingers. Chill it for at least 2 hours. If it feels cool and solid, it’s ready. Cut into squares for serving. Enjoy the sweet treat!
In this blog post, I covered everything you need for chocolate cherry fudge. I shared the key ingredients, along with their details, substitutions, and step-by-step instructions for making this treat. You learned tips to get the right texture and avoid mistakes. I also explored variations for different diets and preferences. Finally, I provided storage tips to keep your fudge fresh. With this guide, you can create delicious fudge that suits your tastes and needs. Happy bakin
