Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge Recipe

Dreamy Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge Recipe for Sweet Smiles

Crafting a delectable cranberry white chocolate fudge brings pure winter magic right into your kitchen.

Sweet bursts of tangy fruit complement rich, creamy chocolate in this irresistible treat.

Festive flavors dance together, creating a confection that feels both elegant and comforting.

Seasonal ingredients blend seamlessly, promising a dessert that will impress even the most discerning palate.

Minimal effort yields maximum deliciousness with this simple yet sophisticated recipe.

Each bite promises a perfect balance of tart cranberries and smooth white chocolate.

Trust you can become a dessert hero by mastering this delightful confection.

Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge Is A Treat

  • Craft Festive Treats: Whip up a stunning dessert that looks like it came straight from a holiday bakery, perfect for impressing guests with minimal kitchen skills.
  • Quick Crowd-Pleaser: Prepare this fudge in just a few simple steps, making it an ideal recipe for busy home cooks who want delicious results without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Versatile Holiday Delight: Customize this recipe by adding optional nuts or adjusting cranberry amounts, creating a flexible dessert that suits different tastes and dietary preferences.
  • No-Bake Convenience: Enjoy a delectable sweet treat that doesn't require an oven, saving time and reducing kitchen cleanup while still delivering incredible flavor and texture.

Ingredient Rundown For Cranberry Fudge

Base Ingredients:
  • White Chocolate Chips: A sweet and creamy base that provides the rich, smooth texture for the fudge.
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds sweetness and helps create a soft, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Vanilla Extract: Brings a warm, classic flavor that complements the white chocolate.
  • Dried Cranberries: Adds a tart and fruity burst of flavor that contrasts with the sweet white chocolate.
Optional Add-Ins:
  • Nuts: Provides a crunchy texture and additional nutty flavor to the fudge.
Preparation Ingredient:
  • Parchment Paper: Ensures easy removal of the fudge from the pan and prevents sticking.

Method For Making Cranberry White Fudge

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Canvas

Line your baking pan with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over slightly for easy removal.

This will help you lift out the fudge effortlessly once it’s set.

Step 2: Create a Smooth Chocolate Base

In a medium saucepan, combine white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk.

Melt these ingredients over low heat, stirring continuously to prevent burning.

Keep the heat gentle and your movements steady until the mixture becomes completely smooth and glossy.

Step 3: Enhance the Flavor Profile

Remove the pan from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

This will add a delightful depth of flavor to your fudge, making it more complex and interesting.

Step 4: Fold in Delightful Extras

Gently incorporate your mix-ins with a soft folding motion:
  • Dried cranberries
  • Chopped nuts (optional)

Distribute these ingredients evenly throughout the creamy mixture for a perfect balance of textures.

Step 5: Shape and Settle

Pour the fudge into your prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly.

Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles and create a smooth surface.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Refrigerate the fudge for 2-3 hours.

The cooling process will transform your mixture into a firm, sliceable treat.

Patience is key for achieving the perfect texture.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Once completely set, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper edges.

Cut into neat squares using a sharp knife.

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Tips For The Smoothest Fudge Texture

  • Line the pan with parchment paper, allowing overhang for easy removal and clean cutting of fudge squares.
  • Use low heat and stir constantly to avoid burning white chocolate, ensuring smooth and creamy texture.
  • Fold dried cranberries evenly throughout the mixture for balanced flavor and beautiful color distribution.
  • Refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours to achieve firm, sliceable fudge consistency.
  • Keep fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, maintaining freshness and texture.

Mix-In Ideas For Cranberry Fudge Fans

  • Dairy-Free Dream: Replace white chocolate chips with dairy-free white chocolate and use coconut condensed milk for a vegan-friendly version.
  • Nutty Crunch: Add chopped almonds or pecans for extra texture and a rich, roasted flavor profile.
  • Holiday Spice Fusion: Mix in ground cinnamon or orange zest to create a warm, festive seasonal variation.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free and check white chocolate chip packaging for safe preparation.

Serving Cranberry White Fudge At Parties

  • Holiday Gift Packaging: Wrap individual fudge squares in clear cellophane with festive ribbons for charming homemade presents that sparkle with warmth and love.
  • Dessert Platter Pairing: Arrange fudge squares alongside shortbread cookies, chocolate truffles, and fresh berries for an elegant holiday dessert display that delights guests.
  • Gourmet Coffee Companion: Serve these sweet white chocolate cranberry bites next to espresso or cappuccino for a delightful after-dinner treat that balances rich flavors.
  • Festive Garnish Option: Sprinkle extra chopped dried cranberries or crushed pistachios on top of fudge squares for added texture and visual appeal that elevates the dessert.

Best Storage For Cranberry White Fudge

  • Store fudge in an airtight container lined with wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. Keep refrigerated for up to 2 weeks, maintaining its creamy texture and freshness.
  • Wrap individual fudge pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months, preserving the delicate white chocolate and cranberry flavors.
  • Remove frozen fudge from the freezer and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. Allow pieces to come to room temperature naturally for the best texture and taste.
  • Keep fudge in a cool, dry place in a sealed container for 3-5 days, away from direct sunlight or heat sources to prevent melting.

FAQs

  • What are dried cranberries?

Dried cranberries are sweet-tart, chewy fruit pieces made by removing water from fresh cranberries through a drying process, often sweetened to enhance their flavor and make them more palatable.

  • Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

No, fresh cranberries are too watery and tart for this fudge recipe. Dried cranberries provide the right texture and sweetness without adding excess moisture.

  • Is white chocolate real chocolate?

White chocolate isn’t technically chocolate since it doesn’t contain cocoa solids. It’s made from cocoa butter, sugar, and milk solids, giving it a creamy, sweet flavor.

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Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge Recipe

Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge Recipe


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4.7 from 32 reviews

  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 24 1x

Description

Indulgent cranberry white chocolate fudge brings festive cheer with its creamy sweetness and tart berry notes. Rich layers of white chocolate and tangy cranberries create a delightful winter treat you’ll savor with each smooth, elegant bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

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

Optional Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts

Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by lining it completely with parchment paper, ensuring full coverage of the bottom and sides.
  2. Create a double boiler or use a medium saucepan on low heat to gently melt white chocolate chips with sweetened condensed milk, stirring continuously to prevent scorching.
  3. When the mixture transforms into a silky, uniform consistency with no visible chocolate chunks, remove from heat source.
  4. Incorporate vanilla extract into the melted chocolate mixture, stirring until fully integrated.
  5. Gently fold dried cranberries into the white chocolate base, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture.
  6. Transfer the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it uniformly and create a smooth, level surface.
  7. Chill the fudge in the refrigerator for approximately 2-3 hours, or until the texture becomes firm and completely set.
  8. Remove the fudge from the refrigerator and lift out of the pan using the parchment paper edges.
  9. Slice into precise square pieces using a sharp knife, cleaning the blade between cuts for neat edges.
  10. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for optimal texture and freshness.

Notes

  • Swap sweetened condensed milk with coconut milk for a dairy-free version that maintains creamy texture.
  • Toast nuts like pecans or almonds before adding to enhance their nutty flavor and provide extra crunch.
  • Use fresh cranberries instead of dried for a tart burst and more vibrant color, but chop them finely to distribute evenly.
  • Drizzle melted dark chocolate on top for a sophisticated contrast and additional flavor complexity.
  • Prep Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 24
  • Calories: 203
  • Sugar: 23 g
  • Sodium: 30 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 27 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 8 mg
Lucas Bennett

Lucas Bennett

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Developing single-serving recipes with a rustic, seasonal twist.
  • Crafting engaging food insights that connect with readers.
  • Developing content that educates readers on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Integrating local ingredients into accessible home cooking.​

Education

Blue Ridge Community College – Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on seasonal cooking, sustainable kitchen practices, and farm-to-table techniques.

Appalachian State University – B.A. in English
Built critical thinking and analysis through diverse texts. Guided by faculty, it prepares graduates for publishing and more.


Growing up in the rolling hills of North Carolina, Lucas learned early that some of life’s best memories start around a kitchen table. After studying English at Appalachian State University and honing his culinary skills at Blue Ridge Community College, he dreamed of blending storytelling with rustic, seasonal cooking, and The Scrumptious Pumpkin was born.
Lucas focuses on easy, single-serving recipes that turn fresh, local ingredients into something special. His style is simple, heartfelt, and rooted in the beauty of the seasons. When he’s not testing a new dish, you’ll probably find him hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, browsing farmers’ markets, or scribbling food stories in a notebook.

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