Description
This luscious White Chocolate Cherry Fudge combines creamy white chocolate and sweet maraschino cherries for a rich and festive treat. Perfectly smooth with a hint of pink and studded with chewy cherries, this no-bake fudge is ideal for holidays, parties, or any special occasion.
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 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 and set aside to ensure easy removal of the fudge after setting.
- Dry Cherries: Pat the chopped maraschino cherries dry using paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which prevents the fudge from becoming too soft.
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, sugar, heavy cream, and salt. Stir over medium-high heat until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves completely.
- Cook to Soft-Ball Stage: Bring the mixture to a boil, then place a candy thermometer in the pan. Stir frequently and cook until the thermometer reads 235°F, which is the soft-ball stage, indicating the right texture for fudge.
- Mix in White Chocolate and Marshmallow Cream: Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the white chocolate chips and marshmallow cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy, incorporating all ingredients evenly.
- Add Color and Cherries: Add one drop of pink food coloring and stir to distribute the color evenly. Then gently fold in the dried maraschino cherries without crushing them.
- Pour and Spread: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared parchment-lined pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly for uniform thickness.
- Set the Fudge: Allow the fudge to set at room temperature for 3-4 hours, or until firm and set to the touch.
- Slice and Serve: Once set, remove the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into 1-inch squares and serve or store as desired.
Notes
- Drying the cherries thoroughly is essential to keeping the fudge texture firm and not watery.
- Use a reliable candy thermometer to achieve the correct soft-ball stage temperature for perfect fudge consistency.
- Room temperature setting is preferred; avoid refrigeration which can alter texture.
- Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For a stronger cherry flavor, consider soaking the dried cherries in a little cherry liqueur before folding them in (optional).