If you love decadent sweets bursting with fruity cherry flavors and creamy chocolatey goodness, the Cherry Garcia Fudge Recipe is about to become your new obsession. This luscious fudge combines velvety white chocolate with a perfect medley of dried and maraschino cherries, plus semi-sweet chocolate chips for extra texture and richness. Each bite offers a delightful balance of sweet and tart with a melt-in-your-mouth creaminess that feels indulgent yet approachable. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering, a special treat, or just because, this fudge is sure to bring smiles and satisfy sweet cravings with its irresistible charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with the Cherry Garcia Fudge Recipe couldn’t be simpler because it revolves around a handful of key ingredients that together create that classic cherry-chocolate flavor and creamy texture you’ll adore.
- White chocolate (3 cups, chopped or chips): This forms the smooth, sweet base that melts beautifully and gives the fudge its signature creamy richness.
- Sweetened condensed milk (1 can, 14 oz): Adds luscious sweetness and a silky texture that makes the fudge melt on your tongue.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor with warm, aromatic notes that complement the cherries and chocolate perfectly.
- Dried cherries (½ cup, roughly chopped): Brings intense cherry flavor with a pleasant chewy bite to contrast the creamy fudge.
- Maraschino cherries (½ cup, halved and drained): Provides bursts of juicy sweetness and color throughout the fudge.
- Chocolate chips (½ cup, semi-sweet or dark): Contribute rich chocolate bits that add extra depth and texture.
How to Make Cherry Garcia Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Fudge Base
Begin by melting the white chocolate and sweetened condensed milk together in a medium saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly to ensure the mixture becomes smooth and completely combined without burning. This step is crucial because a silky base guarantees the perfect fudge consistency.
Step 2: Add the Vanilla
Once the chocolate mixture is melted and smooth, remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the fudge with its warm, comforting aroma that subtly lifts the overall flavor.
Step 3: Fold in the Cherries and Chocolate Chips
Carefully fold in the dried cherries, maraschino cherries, and semi-sweet chocolate chips. This ensures every bite has a delightful balance of chewy dried fruit, juicy maraschino pieces, and melty chocolate chunks. Gently mixing preserves the texture and prevents the fruits from breaking down too much.
Step 4: Set the Fudge
Line an 8×8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Pour the fudge mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly using a spatula. This will help the fudge set in a perfect, uniform layer.
Step 5: Chill Until Firm
Transfer the baking dish to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours. This resting time allows the fudge to firm up, making it easy to cut into neat squares without crumbling.
Step 6: Cut and Serve
Once fully set, remove the fudge from the pan by lifting the parchment paper. Cut it into the desired size squares and serve. Now you have an absolutely scrumptious Cherry Garcia Fudge ready to enjoy or impress guests!
How to Serve Cherry Garcia Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your serving experience by sprinkling a few extra chopped dried cherries or chocolate shavings on top of each fudge square. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add an elegant look and a touch of sweetness to the presentation.
Side Dishes
While Cherry Garcia fudge shines on its own, pairing it with a hot cup of coffee, bold black tea, or even a glass of cold milk enhances the chocolate-cherry flavors deliciously. Consider serving alongside simple biscotti or buttery shortbread for a decadent dessert plate upgrade.
Creative Ways to Present
For gift-giving or parties, wrap individual fudge squares in decorative parchment or cellophane tied with a cherry-red ribbon. Alternatively, arrange the fudge on a rustic wooden board with fresh cherries and chocolate chunks scattered around for a festive, eye-catching display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover fudge in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Properly stored, the fudge will stay fresh and maintain its perfect texture for up to two weeks, making it a convenient treat to enjoy little by little.
Freezing
To keep your Cherry Garcia Fudge Recipe longer, wrap leftover pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving to preserve the best flavor and texture.
Reheating
This fudge is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, but if you prefer a slightly softer bite, you can briefly microwave individual squares for 5-7 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat as it can melt too much and lose shape.
FAQs
Can I use dark chocolate instead of white chocolate?
While the classic Cherry Garcia Fudge Recipe relies on white chocolate for its creamy sweetness, you can experiment with dark chocolate for a richer, less sweet variation. Just note the flavor and texture will change noticeably.
Do the dried cherries need to be soaked before adding?
There’s no need to soak the dried cherries in this recipe. They’re chopped and folded directly into the fudge, providing chewy texture and concentrated cherry flavor as intended.
Can I substitute fresh cherries instead of dried or maraschino?
Fresh cherries contain a lot of moisture which could affect how the fudge sets. The dried and maraschino cherries are better suited for this recipe because they add flavor without compromising the fudge’s firmness.
What’s the best way to chop the white chocolate?
Use a sharp knife to chop chocolate bars into small, even pieces or simply use white chocolate chips for convenience. Smaller pieces melt more evenly and quickly, ensuring a smooth fudge base.
Is there a vegan version of this fudge?
This particular Cherry Garcia Fudge Recipe relies on dairy ingredients like sweetened condensed milk and white chocolate. For a vegan alternative, you’d need to use plant-based condensed milk and dairy-free white chocolate substitutes, but adjustments to the recipe might be necessary for texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the way cherries and chocolate come together in this Cherry Garcia Fudge Recipe. It’s wonderfully easy to make and perfect for sharing with loved ones or rewarding yourself after a long day. Once you try it, you’ll see why it quickly becomes a favorite go-to for festive occasions and cozy nights in. Go ahead, give this sweet treat a whirl—you won’t regret having a batch waiting in the fridge!
Print
Cherry Garcia Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cherry Garcia Fudge is a rich, creamy treat featuring a luscious blend of melted white chocolate and sweetened condensed milk, infused with vanilla and studded with dried cherries, maraschino cherries, and chocolate chips. This no-bake fudge is easy to prepare and sets in the refrigerator, perfect for cherry and chocolate lovers seeking a decadent homemade dessert.
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 3 cups white chocolate (chopped or chips)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix-Ins
- ½ cup dried cherries (roughly chopped)
- ½ cup maraschino cherries (halved and drained)
- ½ cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
Instructions
- Prepare the Fudge Base: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the white chocolate and sweetened condensed milk, stirring constantly until smooth and fully combined, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Remove from Heat and Add Vanilla: Take the saucepan off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the fudge base with a rich aroma.
- Mix in the Cherries and Chocolate: Gently fold in the dried cherries, maraschino cherries, and chocolate chips. Stir carefully to evenly distribute these mix-ins throughout the fudge mixture without breaking the cherries.
- Line the Baking Dish: Prepare an 8×8-inch square baking dish by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy removal of the fudge.
- Pour and Spread the Fudge: Transfer the fudge mixture into the lined dish and spread it into an even layer using a spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Refrigerate Until Set: Place the dish in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is fully set and firm to the touch.
- Serve: Once set, remove the fudge from the dish using the parchment paper, cut into small squares, and enjoy this rich, cherry-infused treat!
Notes
- For best results, use high-quality white chocolate and fresh tasting dried cherries.
- You can substitute maraschino cherries with glace cherries if preferred.
- Store leftover fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Allow fudge to come to room temperature a few minutes before serving for a softer texture.
- Ensure to stir the chocolate mixture constantly to avoid burning or seizing.
