Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge Recipe

There's nothing quite like the indulgence of Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge during the holiday season. This creamy, dreamy treat combines the rich sweetness of white chocolate with the tart pop of dried cranberries, creating the perfect festive bite. It's a no-fuss dessert that’s as stunning as it is delicious.

I remember making this fudge for the first time as a holiday gift for my neighbors, and it was an instant hit. Now, it’s a staple at every family gathering, and the best part? It comes together in just 15 minutes, making it the ultimate stress-free dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge

Get ready to fall in love with a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is to devour. This Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge is everything you want in a holiday sweet and more.

First off, it’s quick and foolproof. With just a handful of ingredients and no need for candy thermometers or complicated techniques, even beginner cooks can nail this recipe on the first try.

It’s also perfectly festive. The creamy white chocolate base is dotted with ruby red cranberries, making every piece look like a holiday decoration on its own. Whether you’re gifting it or serving it at a party, it’s sure to impress.

And let’s not forget how versatile it is. You can easily customize the add-ins, swapping cranberries for other dried fruits or adding nuts for a crunchy twist.

Finally, this fudge is make-ahead friendly, so you can whip up a batch days in advance and focus on other holiday tasks.

So, let’s dive into the simple ingredients that make this fudge so irresistible.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge lies in its minimal yet high-impact ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• White Chocolate Chips: The foundation of this fudge. Use high-quality chips or bars for the creamiest texture and best flavor. Avoid overly sweet or waxy brands for a more balanced result.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: This is the secret to fudge that sets beautifully without the hassle of boiling sugar. It adds sweetness and a silky texture.
• Unsalted Butter: Just a tablespoon enhances the fudge’s richness and ensures it doesn’t stick to the pan.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla rounds out the flavors and balances the sweetness of the white chocolate.
• Dried Cranberries: These add a tart, chewy contrast to the creamy, sweet fudge. Look for plump, unsweetened or lightly sweetened cranberries for the best results.

Special Equipment

You’ll need an 8x8-inch square baking pan and parchment paper to make slicing and removing the fudge a breeze. A microwave-safe bowl or a double boiler is also essential for melting the white chocolate evenly.

How to Make This Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge

Creating this Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge couldn’t be easier. Let’s walk through the steps:

1. Prepare the Pan: Line an 8x8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This makes it easy to lift out the fudge later.
2. Melt the Base: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 2 cups of white chocolate chips, 1 can of sweetened condensed milk, and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each, until the mixture is completely smooth. Alternatively, you can use a double boiler for this step.
3. Add Flavorings: Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor. Once the base is smooth, fold in 1 cup of dried cranberries, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
4. Pour and Spread: Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer, pressing gently to remove air bubbles.
5. Chill to Set: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2-3 hours, or until it’s firm enough to slice.
6. Slice and Serve: Lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment overhang and place it on a cutting board. Cut into bite-sized squares with a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for neat edges.

This fudge takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus chilling time. The result? A creamy, sweet, and tart confection that melts in your mouth.

Storage Options

This fudge is as durable as it is delicious, making it perfect for gifting or saving for later.

• Room Temperature: Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Keep it in a cool, dry place to avoid melting.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate the fudge in a sealed container. It will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
• Freezing: If you’re making fudge ahead of time, it freezes beautifully. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge is its versatility. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Swap the Cranberries: Use dried cherries, raisins, or chopped dried apricots for a fun twist.
• Add Nuts: Stir in ½ cup of chopped pistachios, almonds, or pecans for a crunchy contrast.
• Drizzle with Chocolate: Once the fudge is set, drizzle melted dark or milk chocolate over the top for added flair and flavor.
• Infuse with Citrus: Add 1 teaspoon of orange zest for a bright, zesty note that complements the cranberries perfectly.
• Make It Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed coconut milk for a vegan-friendly version.

No matter how you customize it, this fudge is guaranteed to delight.

Indulging in Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge is like taking a bite of holiday magic. Whether you’re enjoying it with loved ones, wrapping it up as a thoughtful gift, or sneaking a piece for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a cherished tradition. Happy fudge-making!

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