Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge Recipe

Sweet & Tangy Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge Recipe

Sweet holiday gatherings call for something special, and this cranberry white chocolate fudge recipe delivers pure magic.

Creamy white chocolate melts perfectly with tart cranberries, creating a festive treat that sparkles with seasonal charm.

Rich layers of flavor dance across your palate with each delectable bite.

The contrasting colors of crimson and ivory make this dessert a stunning centerpiece for any celebration.

Smooth white chocolate provides a luxurious backdrop for vibrant, jewel-toned cranberries.

Simple ingredients transform into an elegant confection that looks like it came from a gourmet bakery.

One taste will transport you to a winter wonderland of delightful sweetness.

All the Ingredients for White Chocolate Fudge

Base Ingredients:
  • White Chocolate Chips: A sweet and creamy foundation that melts smoothly to create the fudge's rich texture.
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: Provides sweetness and helps bind the fudge together for a smooth consistency.
Add-In Ingredients:
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, classic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the fudge.
  • Dried Cranberries: Brings a tart and chewy element that contrasts beautifully with the sweet white chocolate.
  • Walnuts: Offers a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that complements the sweet fudge (optional).
Preparation Ingredient:
  • Parchment Paper: Ensures easy removal of the fudge from the pan and helps with clean cutting.

How to Make Cranberry Fudge at Home

Step 1: Prepare Baking Pan

Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper covers the bottom and sides completely for easy removal of the fudge later.

Step 2: Melt Chocolate Base

Place white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a microwave-safe bowl.

Heat in short 20-second bursts, stirring thoroughly between each interval until the mixture becomes completely smooth and glossy.

Step 3: Enhance Fudge Flavor

Add vanilla extract to the melted chocolate mixture.

Gently fold in:
  • Dried cranberries
  • Chopped walnuts

Mix ingredients until evenly distributed throughout the fudge base.

Step 4: Shape Fudge

Transfer the creamy mixture into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and create a smooth surface.

Step 5: Chill and Set

Place the pan in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours.

The fudge needs to become firm and completely set before cutting.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Remove the fudge from the refrigerator.

Lift the parchment paper to remove the entire block.

Cut into neat square pieces using a sharp knife.

Serve and enjoy the rich, creamy cranberry white chocolate treat.

Handy Tips for Smooth White Chocolate Fudge

  • Use short microwave bursts to prevent burning, stirring between each interval for smooth, creamy texture.
  • Select premium white chocolate chips and fresh dried cranberries for the best flavor and richness.
  • Line pan with parchment paper, allowing extra overhang for easy removal and clean cutting of fudge squares.
  • Add or reduce nuts according to personal preference, or swap walnuts with pecans for different crunch and taste.
  • Ensure full refrigeration time for proper setting, which helps fudge maintain its firm, sliceable consistency.

Ideas for Fudge Mix-Ins and Variations

  • Dairy-Free Delight: Replace white chocolate chips with coconut cream and dairy-free white chocolate. Use almond milk condensed milk for a vegan-friendly version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free. Check white chocolate chips and nuts for potential cross-contamination.
  • Nutty Cranberry Swap: Replace walnuts with pecans, almonds, or pistachios for different flavor profiles. Experiment with roasted or candied nuts for extra crunch.
  • Berry Alternative: Substitute dried cranberries with dried cherries, chopped dried strawberries, or mixed dried berries for a fruity variation.

Ways to Present Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge

  • Festive Holiday Platter: Arrange fudge squares on a decorative Christmas plate with fresh pine sprigs and cinnamon sticks for a stunning seasonal presentation.
  • Gifting Delight: Package individual fudge pieces in clear cellophane bags tied with rustic twine or festive ribbons for charming homemade gifts that spread sweet joy.
  • Dessert Pairing Perfection: Serve alongside hot cocoa, coffee, or a warming cup of chai tea to complement the rich white chocolate and tart cranberry flavors.
  • Elegant Garnish Touch: Sprinkle extra chopped dried cranberries or crushed walnuts on top of fudge squares for added texture and visual appeal.

Storing Fudge for Sharing and Gifts

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container lined with parchment paper between layers for up to 2 weeks. Keep chilled to maintain texture and prevent melting.
  • Wrap individual fudge squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bag. Freeze for maximum 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before serving.
  • Do not leave fudge at room temperature longer than 2 hours. White chocolate can become soft and lose shape quickly in warm environments.
  • Separate fudge pieces with wax paper or parchment to avoid clumping and maintain individual piece integrity when storing.

FAQs

  • Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried cranberries?

No, fresh cranberries have too much moisture and will make the fudge watery. Stick to dried cranberries for the best texture and flavor.

  • Is it possible to make this fudge without a microwave?

Yes, you can use a double boiler method. Melt the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

  • How long will this fudge stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the fudge will stay fresh for up to 7-10 days. Make sure to keep it chilled to maintain its smooth consistency.

Cranberry Fudge Crowd-Pleaser Details

  • Whip Up Quickly: This fudge recipe requires minimal ingredients and simple microwave techniques, making it perfect for busy home cooks seeking a fast dessert solution.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap walnuts for other nuts or adjust cranberry amounts to match personal taste preferences, creating a flexible treat that adapts to individual likes.
  • Celebrate Festive Moments: Gorgeous white and red color combination makes this fudge ideal for holiday gatherings, winter parties, or special gift-giving occasions when you want something homemade and delightful.
  • No Baking Required: Skip complicated oven processes and enjoy a stress-free dessert preparation that delivers delicious results without complex cooking skills.
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Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge Recipe

Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge Recipe


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4.7 from 37 reviews

  • Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 16 1x

Description

Indulgent cranberry white chocolate fudge brings festive charm to holiday dessert tables, melding sweet and tart flavors in creamy perfection. Festive confections like this one create memorable moments when shared with cherished friends and family.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (480 milliliters) white chocolate chips
  • 1 can (14 ounces / 397 grams) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) dried cranberries

Complementary Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) chopped walnuts

Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage for easy removal.
  2. Select a microwave-safe bowl and combine white chocolate chips with sweetened condensed milk for seamless melting.
  3. Heat the mixture in the microwave, using 20-second bursts and stirring thoroughly between each interval until the chocolate transforms into a silky, uniform consistency.
  4. Incorporate vanilla extract into the melted chocolate, stirring gently to distribute the flavor evenly throughout the mixture.
  5. Fold dried cranberries and chopped walnuts into the liquid fudge, distributing ingredients uniformly to ensure balanced taste in every bite.
  6. Transfer the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it smoothly and create an even surface.
  7. Chill the fudge in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours at 40°F, allowing it to solidify completely and develop a firm texture.
  8. Once set, lift the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper edges and slice into neat, bite-sized squares for serving.

Notes

  • Adjust the cranberry amount to suit your taste preferences, ensuring a balanced flavor profile in every bite.
  • Swap walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different nutty crunch and personalized touch.
  • Ensure white chocolate melts completely by stirring thoroughly between microwave intervals to prevent scorching.
  • Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, maintaining its creamy texture and freshness.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 hours
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Melting
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 16
  • Calories: 165
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 25 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 10 mg
Natalie Brooks

Natalie Brooks

Co-Founder & Content Strategist

Expertise

  • Vegan and plant-based recipe creation
  • Meal planning and nutritional analysis
  • Storytelling through blog content, video, and social media

Education

eCornell

  • Program: Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate
  • Focus: Whole-food, plant-based cooking, with a foundation in nutritional science and sustainable eating habits.

Natalie brings the vibrant, plant-powered side to Culinary Duo. After earning her Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate from eCornell, she combined her love for fresh ingredients with a passion for storytelling, aiming to make healthy cooking simple and satisfying.
Her kitchen motto: good food doesn’t need a fancy label, it just needs fresh ideas and a little creativity. Outside of writing and recipe testing, Natalie’s happiest in her garden, exploring farmers’ markets, or mixing global flavors into new kitchen experiments.

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