Are you craving a sweet treat that’s both easy to make and incredibly delicious? Look no further! In this post, I’ll share my simple White Chocolate Cranberry Fudge recipe. With just a few key ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s get started on this yummy journey to fudge perfection!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This fudge can be whipped up in just 10 minutes, making it a perfect last-minute treat for gatherings.
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of white chocolate and cranberries creates a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or other dried fruits to make this fudge your own!
- Perfect for Gifting: Once sliced, this fudge makes a beautiful and delicious gift for friends and family during the holidays.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 cups white chocolate chips
– 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped
– 1 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)
Equipment Needed
– Medium saucepan
– 8-inch square baking dish
– Parchment paper or cooking spray
Measuring Tips
To get the best results, measure your white chocolate chips carefully. Use a dry measuring cup. Scoop the chips in and level them off with a knife. For sweetened condensed milk, use a liquid measuring cup. Pour it in with care to avoid spills.
Chopping dried cranberries helps them mix well into the fudge. If they are whole, they can clump together. A sharp knife will make this easy. Cut them into smaller pieces, about a quarter or half. This way, every bite of fudge gets a bit of fruit.
These simple steps make your fudge smooth and tasty. Enjoy the process!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Baking Dish
To start, you need to prepare your baking dish. You can line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper. Be sure to leave some paper hanging over the edges. This helps you lift the fudge out later. If you prefer, you can also use cooking spray. Just spray a light coat inside the dish to prevent sticking.
Melting the Chocolate Mixture
Next, melt the chocolate. In a medium saucepan, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Add a pinch of salt. Use low heat to melt the mixture. It’s important to stir continuously. This keeps the chocolate from burning and ensures a smooth texture. You want it completely melted and combined.
Flavoring and Combining
Once the chocolate is smooth, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract at this point. Mix it well to blend the flavor. Now, gently fold in the chopped dried cranberries. If you like, you can add walnuts or pecans too. This adds a nice crunch to your fudge.
Setting and Serving the Fudge
After mixing, pour the fudge into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Now, place the dish in the fridge. Let the fudge chill for at least 3 hours. This helps it set up nicely. When it is firm, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper. Place it on a cutting board and slice it into squares. For a festive touch, arrange the squares on a platter and sprinkle some extra cranberries and nuts on top.
Tips & Tricks
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Overheating the chocolate: Heat can make chocolate seize. Use low heat and stir often.
– Not waiting long enough to set: Let the fudge chill for at least 3 hours. If it’s soft, it needs more time.
Enhancing Texture and Flavor
– Adding sea salt on top: A sprinkle of sea salt adds a nice contrast to the sweetness.
– Experimenting with other add-ins: Try adding dried cherries, coconut, or even mini marshmallows for fun.
Presentation Ideas
– Arranging on a platter: Neatly place square pieces on a decorative platter for a lovely display.
– Garnishing suggestions: Top with extra chopped cranberries or nuts to make it pop.
Pro Tips
- Use High-Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality white chocolate chips for the best flavor and texture in your fudge.
- Chill Before Cutting: Allow the fudge to chill completely before cutting to ensure clean edges and perfect squares.
- Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to swap out cranberries and nuts with your favorite dried fruits or candies for a personalized touch.
- Gift-Worthy Presentation: Wrap the fudge squares in decorative cellophane or place them in a festive tin for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Variations
Different Chocolate Options
You can change up the chocolate in this fudge. Dark chocolate works well instead of white. It gives a richer taste and balances the sweetness. If you want a creamier fudge, use milk chocolate. The flavor will be sweeter, perfect for those who love sweet treats.
Flavor Additions
You can add fun flavors to your fudge. Try mixing in orange zest for a fresh twist. Mint extract also adds a cool taste that pairs well with chocolate. Want more texture? Add other dried fruits like apricots or cherries. These will give your fudge a unique flavor.
Dietary Modifications
If you need a gluten-free option, this fudge is easy to adjust. Just check that your chocolate chips are gluten-free. For a vegan version, use vegan chocolate chips. This way, everyone can enjoy this tasty treat without worry.
Storage Info
Proper Storage Techniques
To keep your white chocolate cranberry fudge fresh, use an airtight container. This helps to lock in moisture and flavor. You can store it at room temperature for short visits, but the fridge works better for longer storage. If you live in a warm area, always choose the fridge to avoid melting.
Shelf Life
The fudge lasts up to two weeks when stored properly. Check for signs of spoilage, like an off smell or hard texture. If it feels dry or crumbly, it’s best to toss it out. Fresh fudge has a soft and creamy texture, and the cranberries should still look vibrant.
Freezing Fudge
To freeze fudge, follow these steps:
– Cut the fudge into squares before freezing.
– Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
– Place wrapped fudge in a freezer-safe bag or container.
– Label the bag with the date for easy tracking.
When you want to enjoy the fudge, thaw it in the fridge overnight. This keeps the texture nice. Never thaw it at room temperature, as it can get too soft. Enjoy your fudge fresh and delicious!
FAQs
Can I use regular chocolate instead of white?
Yes, you can use regular chocolate. Dark or milk chocolate can change the taste.
Pros:
– Dark chocolate gives a rich flavor.
– Milk chocolate adds creaminess.
Cons:
– It may not pair well with cranberries.
– The texture might differ from white chocolate fudge.
How do I know when the fudge is set?
You can tell if the fudge is set by checking its firmness.
– It should feel firm to the touch.
– The edges will pull away from the pan slightly.
– If you press it gently, it should bounce back.
Can I make this fudge ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this fudge ahead of time.
– Make it up to a week before you need it.
– Store it in an airtight container.
Serving suggestions for stored fudge:
– Cut into squares just before serving.
– You can serve it chilled or at room temperature.
– For a fancy touch, add extra cranberries or nuts on top.
This blog post covered how to make white chocolate fudge using simple ingredients. You learned about key items like white chocolate chips and dried cranberries, and the right tools needed for the job. Following the step-by-step instructions will help you avoid common mistakes. Remember to maintain proper temperatures while melting. Finally, experiment with flavors and storage methods to suit your taste. Enjoy your delicious fudge, and share it with other
