I started making this Maraschino Cherry White Chocolate Fudge one Christmas when I wanted something special for gift giving. The way those bright red cherries peek through the creamy white fudge looks so festive and pretty! Now it's become my signature holiday treat. Everyone asks for the recipe when they bite into that smooth white chocolate swirled with sweet cherries.
Your Shopping List for Sweet Success
- White Chocolate Chips: 3 cups of good quality chips they really make the fudge shine.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: 1 can 14 oz the secret to that perfect fudgy texture.
- Unsalted Butter: ¼ cup for that silky smooth finish.
- Almond Extract: ½ tsp gives it that special something.
- Vanilla Extract: ½ tsp pure vanilla never imitation.
- Maraschino Cherries: 1 cup chopped and well drained my favorite part!
- Salt: Just a tiny pinch to make everything pop.
Let's Make Some Magic
- First Things First
- Get your 8x8 pan ready with parchment paper make sure to leave some hanging over the sides for easy lifting later.
- Melting Time
- Put your chocolate chips condensed milk and butter in a pan. Keep stirring over medium low heat until everything's smooth and dreamy.
- Add the Extras
- Take it off the heat stir in those extracts and that pinch of salt they make all the difference.
- Cherry Magic
- Fold in those pretty red cherries nice and gentle we don't want pink fudge unless that's your thing!
- Into the Pan
- Pour everything in and smooth the top with your spatula make it pretty.
- Patience
- Pop it in the fridge for at least 4 hours this is the hardest part waiting!
- The Big Reveal
- Lift it out with those paper handles cut it into squares and watch them disappear.
My Best Fudge Making Tips
- Choose Good Chocolate: Splurge on the good white chocolate chips you'll taste the difference.
- Cherry Care: Pat those cherries really dry nobody likes soggy fudge!
- Keep It Fresh: Store it in the fridge but let it warm up a bit before serving the flavor is so much better.
A Sweet Holiday Tradition
Every time I make this fudge it brings back memories of holiday baking with my mom. The kitchen gets filled with that sweet vanilla almond scent and those cherries look like little jewels in the creamy white fudge. It's become such a special part of our holiday traditions and seeing everyone's faces light up when they take that first bite makes all the effort worth it!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why did my fudge turn pink?
If cherries aren't well drained or are overmixed, their juice can bleed into the fudge. Pat cherries dry and fold gently.
- Can I use milk chocolate instead?
Yes, but the cherry flavor won't be as prominent. White chocolate lets the cherry shine through.
- Why isn't my fudge setting properly?
Make sure to use real white chocolate chips, not coating chips. Also check that you're using sweetened condensed milk, not evaporated milk.
- How long does this fudge keep?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Let come to room temp slightly before serving.
- Can I freeze this fudge?
Yes! Wrap well and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.