There’s something magical about the combination of tart cranberries and creamy white chocolate in this decadent fudge. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a thoughtful homemade gift, this recipe is as beautiful as it is delicious.
I first made this fudge on a snowy December evening, hoping to capture the festive flavors of the season. One bite, and I knew it was a keeper. Its smooth texture and bursts of cranberry make it a favorite for both kids and adults alike. Ready to try your new favorite treat?
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge
Get ready to add a new star to your dessert lineup. This Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge is an irresistible blend of sweet and tangy that’s incredibly easy to make.
First, it’s a no-bake recipe that takes just minutes to prepare. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, it’s perfect for busy holiday schedules or last-minute sweet tooth cravings.
The flavor combination is out of this world. The creamy richness of white chocolate pairs beautifully with the tartness of dried cranberries, creating a balanced treat that’s not overly sweet.
It’s also stunning to look at. The pops of deep red cranberries against the smooth, creamy fudge make this dessert a showstopper on any table or as part of a gift box.
Finally, this recipe is wonderfully versatile. You can easily add nuts, swap out the cranberries for other dried fruits, or use festive sprinkles for a personalized touch.
Ingredients Notes
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, with each ingredient playing an important role in achieving the perfect fudge.
White chocolate chips are the star of this recipe, providing a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth base. Opt for high-quality chips to ensure a smooth and rich texture.
Sweetened condensed milk binds the fudge together while adding sweetness. Be sure to use condensed milk, not evaporated milk, for the correct consistency.
Dried cranberries bring a tart burst of flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the fudge. Look for plump, fresh-looking cranberries for the best results.
Butter adds a touch of richness and helps the fudge set properly. Unsalted butter is ideal, as it lets the other flavors shine.
If you have a microwave-safe bowl and a lined 8x8-inch baking dish, you’re already equipped to make this treat. Parchment paper or aluminum foil with a bit of non-stick spray will make removing the fudge a breeze.
How To Make This Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge
Creating this delightful fudge couldn’t be easier. Let me guide you through the simple process.
Start by preparing your dish. Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the fudge out later. Lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray.
In a large, microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. Be careful not to overheat, as white chocolate can scorch easily.
Once melted, gently fold in the dried cranberries, ensuring they’re evenly distributed. You can save a few cranberries to sprinkle on top for a decorative touch.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Press down any reserved cranberries on the surface for added visual appeal.
Allow the fudge to set in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until firm. Once chilled, use the parchment overhang to lift the fudge out of the dish and onto a cutting board. Slice into squares and enjoy!
Storage Options
This fudge is as convenient to store as it is to make, making it perfect for planning ahead or gifting.
For short-term storage, place the fudge squares in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two weeks. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
If you’d like to freeze the fudge, wrap each piece individually in wax paper or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
To serve, you can enjoy it straight from the fridge or let it sit at room temperature for a softer texture. Either way, it’s delicious!
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
- Add nuts: Stir in chopped pecans or pistachios for a bit of crunch and additional flavor.
- Swap the fruit: Substitute the cranberries with dried cherries, apricots, or even a mix of dried fruits for a unique twist.
- Festive toppings: Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or holiday sprinkles on top for a seasonal flair.
- Dark chocolate twist: Use half white chocolate and half dark chocolate chips for a marbled effect and richer taste.
- Dairy-free option: Use coconut sweetened condensed milk and dairy-free white chocolate chips to make this fudge vegan-friendly.
Experiment and have fun! This recipe is a wonderful canvas for your creativity. Whether you keep it classic or try something new, this Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge is sure to delight.
PrintCranberry White Chocolate Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including refrigeration)
- Yield: 16 squares
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge recipe combines the tartness of dried cranberries with the creamy sweetness of white chocolate. Perfect for holidays and gifting, this no-bake fudge is easy to make and absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Line an 8x8-inch pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, melt white chocolate chips with condensed milk over low heat, stirring until smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in dried cranberries, vanilla extract, and nuts (if using).
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Feel free to substitute cranberries with other dried fruits like cherries or apricots for variety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 25mg
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