Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge Recipe

There's nothing quite like the sweet, creamy decadence of Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge to brighten up your dessert table. This melt-in-your-mouth treat combines rich white chocolate with bursts of tart cranberries, creating a festive and irresistible flavor combination.

this Recipe

I first made this fudge for a holiday potluck when I wanted something easy yet impressive. The vibrant cranberries against the snowy white fudge were a showstopper, and the taste was even better—smooth, sweet, and perfectly balanced with a hint of tartness. Now, it’s my go-to recipe for gift boxes and sweet cravings alike.

Why You'll Love This Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge

Get ready to fall head over heels for your new favorite homemade treat. This Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge is simple to make and absolutely delightful to enjoy.

First off, it’s unbelievably easy. With just a handful of ingredients and a few quick steps, you’ll have a batch ready to set in under 10 minutes. Perfect for beginners or busy bakers!

The flavor combination is next level. The sweet creaminess of white chocolate paired with the tartness of dried cranberries creates a beautiful balance, ensuring it’s not overly sweet.

It’s also incredibly festive. Whether you’re making it for the holidays, a party, or a quick dessert fix, the cranberry and white chocolate combo looks elegant and adds a touch of sophistication to any table.

Lastly, this fudge makes the perfect gift. Wrap it in cute boxes or jars, and you’ve got a homemade treat that everyone will adore. It keeps well, looks stunning, and tastes even better!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the perfect creamy, balanced treat.

Let’s start with the white chocolate chips. I recommend using a good-quality brand, as this is the main star of the fudge. White chocolate can sometimes burn easily, so be sure to melt it carefully.

Sweetened condensed milk is the magic ingredient that gives this fudge its silky, melt-in-your-mouth texture. It combines with the white chocolate to create a perfectly smooth consistency without the need for a candy thermometer.

The dried cranberries add the perfect burst of tartness and chewiness. They contrast beautifully with the sweet white chocolate, giving each bite a little tangy surprise. Look for unsweetened dried cranberries if you want to keep the sugar in check.

A touch of vanilla extract rounds out the flavor, enhancing the creaminess of the fudge and adding a subtle warmth. Don’t skip this—it makes a difference!

For some added flair, consider optional toppings like crushed pistachios or a drizzle of dark chocolate. These additions add a hint of crunch or even more depth to your flavor profile.

How To Make This Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge

Making this Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge is so easy, you’ll wonder why you haven’t tried it sooner! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a foolproof fudge ready to impress.

Start by preparing your pan. Line an 8x8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang on the sides. This will make it easy to lift the fudge out later.

Next, melt the white chocolate chips with the sweetened condensed milk. Combine both ingredients in a medium saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly to avoid scorching. The mixture will slowly become smooth and silky. Remove it from the heat as soon as the chips are fully melted.

Once melted, stir in the vanilla extract and the dried cranberries. Mix well to ensure the cranberries are evenly distributed throughout the fudge mixture.

Pour the mixture into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. For an extra pop of color, sprinkle a few more dried cranberries on top, pressing them gently into the fudge. If you’re adding optional toppings like pistachios, now’s the time to scatter them over the top.

Let the fudge set. Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours or until the fudge is firm. For best results, leave it overnight. Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut it into small squares.

Total time for this recipe is about 10 minutes of prep and a little patience while it chills. The result? A creamy, festive treat that looks as good as it tastes!

Storage Options

This Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge stores beautifully, making it perfect for make-ahead treats or gifting during the holidays.

• Store your fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The cool temperature helps keep it firm and fresh.
• For longer storage, freeze the fudge. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving.
• If gifting, fudge can sit at room temperature for short periods (around 2-3 days) in cooler environments, but it’s best to keep it chilled until ready to give.

To re-serve, simply pull out a few pieces from the fridge, let them sit for 5 minutes, and enjoy that smooth, creamy texture!

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to mix things up and make it your own!

• Add nuts: For a little crunch, mix in chopped pistachios, pecans, or almonds alongside the cranberries. They add texture and complement the creamy fudge beautifully.
• Dark chocolate swirl: Melt a small amount of dark chocolate and swirl it into the white chocolate mixture before chilling. This not only looks gorgeous but adds a touch of rich bitterness to balance the sweetness.
• Orange zest: Add a teaspoon of freshly grated orange zest for a burst of citrus flavor. It pairs perfectly with the cranberries and gives the fudge a holiday twist.
• Swap the cranberries: If cranberries aren’t your thing, try dried cherries, apricots, or even raisins. Each brings its own unique flavor and chewiness.
• Coconut twist: Sprinkle shredded coconut over the top before the fudge sets for a snowy, tropical vibe that pairs beautifully with white chocolate.

Don’t be afraid to get creative! This recipe is a blank canvas for flavors, textures, and festive flair. Experiment with your favorite mix-ins and make it your signature treat.

With its rich, creamy texture and perfectly balanced flavors, Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge is a foolproof recipe you’ll return to again and again. Whether you’re gifting it, serving it at a gathering, or enjoying a little piece with your afternoon coffee, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles all around.

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