A creamy, decadent fudge inspired by the beloved Cherry Garcia ice cream flavor. This indulgent treat blends rich white chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, tart cherries, and dark chocolate for the ultimate cherry-chocolate delight. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or whenever you're craving something sweet!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and quick preparation make this an effortless treat.
- No Baking Required – Just melt, mix, and refrigerate!
- Rich and Creamy – White chocolate and sweetened condensed milk create a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Perfect Flavor Combination – The tart cherries contrast beautifully with the sweet white chocolate and dark chocolate chips.
- Great for Gifting – A beautiful homemade fudge that makes an excellent gift for family and friends.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- White chocolate (chopped or chips)
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Vanilla extract
- Dried cherries (roughly chopped)
- Maraschino cherries (halved and drained)
- Chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
Directions
1. 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. Once the mixture is melted, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
2. Mix in the Cherries and Chocolate
Gently fold in the dried cherries, maraschino cherries, and chocolate chips. Stir well to evenly distribute the mix-ins throughout the fudge.
3. Set the Fudge
Line an 8x8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper. Pour the fudge mixture into the dish and spread it into an even layer. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully set.
4. Serve
Once the fudge is firm, cut it into small squares and serve. Enjoy this rich, cherry-infused treat!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 16 squares
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (including refrigeration)
- Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving
Variations
- Milk Chocolate Version – Swap white chocolate for milk chocolate for a different flavor profile.
- Nutty Twist – Add chopped almonds or pecans for an extra crunch.
- Boozy Fudge – Mix in a splash of cherry liqueur for a grown-up twist.
- Dark Chocolate Lovers – Increase the amount of dark chocolate chips or use dark chocolate as the base.
- Vegan Alternative – Use dairy-free white chocolate and coconut condensed milk for a plant-based version.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: Wrap individual pieces in parchment paper and freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Room Temperature: Can be kept in a cool, dry place for 3-4 days, but refrigeration is recommended for best texture.
FAQs
How do I prevent the fudge from being too soft?
Make sure to refrigerate it for at least 2 hours and avoid adding too many wet ingredients like maraschino cherries with excess juice.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried or maraschino cherries?
Fresh cherries have more moisture, which may affect the texture. If using, chop them finely and pat them dry before adding.
Can I use evaporated milk instead of sweetened condensed milk?
No, evaporated milk lacks the sugar content and thickness needed to achieve the right fudge consistency.
How do I cut the fudge cleanly?
Use a sharp knife warmed with hot water, then wipe it clean between cuts for smooth edges.
Can I make this fudge without chocolate chips?
Yes, but the chocolate chips add a contrast in texture and flavor, making the fudge more delicious.
What’s the best way to drain maraschino cherries?
Place them on a paper towel and pat them dry to remove excess liquid before adding them to the mixture.
Can I use dark chocolate instead of white chocolate?
Yes! Dark chocolate will give a deeper, less sweet flavor, which pairs well with cherries.
Does this fudge need to stay refrigerated?
Yes, due to the high dairy content, refrigeration helps maintain its firm texture and freshness.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a 9x13-inch pan for a larger batch, but keep the refrigeration time the same.
Why did my fudge turn grainy?
Overheating or using low-quality chocolate can cause graininess. Melt the chocolate gently over low heat, stirring constantly.
Conclusion
Cherry Garcia Fudge is a luscious, chocolatey treat with the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Whether you're making it for a holiday gift, a special occasion, or just to satisfy a sweet tooth, this easy no-bake fudge is sure to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy the irresistible combination of cherries and chocolate in every bite!
