Name: Cherry Garcia Fudge Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups white chocolate chips; 14 oz sweetened condensed milk (one typical can); 4 tablespoons butter; 2.5 cups chopped maraschino cherries; 2.5 cups mini chocolate chips

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Cherry Garcia Fudge is a delightful treat combining creamy white chocolate with bursts of maraschino cherries and mini chocolate chips. This easy-to-make fudge is perfect for sharing or enjoying as a sweet indulgence at home.

Ingredients

3 cups white chocolate chips
14 oz sweetened condensed milk (one typical can)

4 tablespoons butter
2.5 cups chopped maraschino cherries

2.5 cups mini chocolate chips

Instructions

Step 1: Line a baking pan with parchment paper to prepare for the fudge.

Step 2: In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir continuously until the mixture is melted and smooth.
Step 3: Remove the saucepan from heat. Fold in 2 cups of the chopped maraschino cherries and 2 cups of the mini chocolate chips gently to combine.
Step 4: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan. Evenly sprinkle the remaining cherry pieces and chocolate chips on top. If the fudge is very hot, let it cool slightly so the chocolate chips do not melt.

Step 5: Place the pan in the fridge until the fudge is completely set, about 4-6 hours. Alternatively, you can chill it in the freezer for 2 hours to speed up the process.
Step 6: Once set, cut the fudge into 1 to 2-inch squares. This recipe makes about 24 pieces.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, try using dark or semisweet chocolate chips instead of white chocolate.

Drain and pat dry the maraschino cherries well to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the fudge texture.
Add a pinch of sea salt on top before chilling for a sweet and salty contrast.
Mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.

Storage

Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, keep it in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge before serving. To enjoy a softer texture, let the fudge sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before eating.

How to Serve

A pile of square white fudge pieces sits on a light wooden cutting board, each piece layered with a creamy white base mixed with red cherry chunks and sprinkled with small dark chocolate chips on top and throughout. The fudge pieces have a smooth and slightly glossy texture with bright red cherry bits visibly embedded, creating a speckled look alongside the scattered chocolate chips. Nearby, a white bowl filled with vibrant red whole cherries is partly visible, resting on a white marbled surface, with some chocolate chips scattered around the board. A red and white cloth with fringed edges adds a cozy accent in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Fresh cherries have more moisture and are less sweet, which may affect the fudge’s texture and flavor. If using fresh cherries, dry them thoroughly and consider slightly reducing other liquids in the recipe.

Why is my fudge grainy or crumbly?

Grainy or crumbly fudge can result from overheating or stirring too vigorously once the chocolate has melted. Be sure to melt the mixture on low heat and stir gently just until smooth to maintain a creamy texture.