Description
Cherry Garcia Fudge is a rich and decadent dessert featuring a creamy blend of semisweet and white chocolate with sweet maraschino cherries and optional crunchy walnuts. This no-bake treat combines luscious chocolate flavors with bursts of fruity cherry, perfect for holidays or anytime you’re craving a special, easy-to-make fudge.
Ingredients
Scale
Fudge Base
- 3 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 3/4 cup chopped maraschino cherries (drained and patted dry)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped white chocolate or white chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to easily lift the fudge out later.
- Melt Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the semisweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter. Stir constantly until all ingredients are melted smoothly and well combined.
- Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the teaspoon of vanilla extract to infuse flavor.
- Incorporate Mix-ins: Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries, chopped white chocolate, and walnuts if using. Be careful to not overmix to maintain cherry texture.
- Set Fudge: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Chill: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours or until it is fully set and firm.
- Cut and Serve: Once set, lift the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into 25 small squares and serve chilled.
Notes
- Ensure maraschino cherries are well drained and patted dry to prevent excess moisture which can affect fudge texture.
- For a nut-free option, simply omit the walnuts.
- Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness.
