Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge Recipe

There's nothing like the sweet, creamy indulgence of Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge to get you into the holiday spirit. Each bite combines the richness of white chocolate with the tart burst of dried cranberries, making it the perfect treat for festive gatherings or cozy nights by the fire.

this Recipe

The first time I made this fudge, I was looking for a dessert that felt sophisticated but was surprisingly simple to prepare. After one taste, it became a holiday tradition. Now, no Christmas cookie platter or gift box feels complete without it. Ready to create your own holiday magic? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge

This isn’t just any fudge – Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge is the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and creamy flavors. Here’s why you’ll adore it:

• Quick and Easy to Make: With only a handful of ingredients and no candy thermometer required, this recipe comes together in under 15 minutes!
• Perfect for Gifting: Wrapped in decorative tins or cellophane, this fudge makes a thoughtful, homemade gift that’s always a hit.
• Festive Look: The bright red cranberries against the creamy white fudge give it a holiday vibe that’s as pretty as it is delicious.
• Versatile Flavor: You can easily tweak this recipe to include your favorite nuts, spices, or other dried fruits.

Once you try this fudge, you’ll see why it’s a holiday staple in my home. But let’s talk about the ingredients that make it so special!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need to make Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge:

• White Chocolate Chips: The foundation of this fudge. Be sure to use high-quality white chocolate for the best flavor and texture. Ghirardelli or Callebaut are excellent choices.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: This magical ingredient creates the creamy, smooth consistency of the fudge while adding just the right amount of sweetness.
• Dried Cranberries: These add a chewy, tart contrast to the sweetness of the white chocolate. Opt for unsweetened cranberries if you prefer a more pronounced tartness.
• Butter: Just a touch of unsalted butter ensures the fudge stays rich and luscious without being greasy.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the flavors and rounds out the sweetness.

Special Equipment

You’ll need an 8x8-inch pan (or similar size) lined with parchment paper for easy removal, plus a heatproof mixing bowl for melting the chocolate. A rubber spatula will help you scrape every last bit of fudge into the pan!

How to Make This Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge

Making Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge couldn’t be easier. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare Your Pan: Line an 8x8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the paper with butter or cooking spray.
2. Melt the Base: In a heatproof bowl, combine 3 cups of white chocolate chips and 1 can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth. Alternatively, you can melt the mixture in a double boiler over low heat.
3. Incorporate Flavors: Once the chocolate mixture is melted, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter until fully incorporated.
4. Add the Cranberries: Gently fold in 1 cup of dried cranberries, ensuring even distribution throughout the fudge.
5. Pour and Smooth: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Tap the pan on the counter to release any air bubbles.
6. Chill: Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is firm to the touch.
7. Slice and Serve: Use the parchment overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan. Cut into squares with a sharp knife and enjoy!

Total Time

Including chilling, this recipe takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes, with just 15 minutes of active prep time.

Storage Options

Storing your Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge is simple, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert:

• Refrigerator: Store fudge in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Freezer: Wrap individual pieces in wax paper and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
• Room Temperature: If you plan to serve the fudge within a few days, it can sit at room temperature in a cool, dry place for up to 3 days.

For best results, avoid exposing the fudge to direct sunlight or heat, as this can cause it to soften or lose its shape.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully versatile. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Add Nuts: Mix in ½ cup of chopped pecans, pistachios, or almonds for a nutty crunch.
• Citrus Twist: Add 1 teaspoon of orange zest to the fudge mixture for a bright, zesty flavor.
• Chocolate Swirl: Swirl in melted dark or milk chocolate for a marbled effect.
• Dried Fruit Medley: Replace some of the cranberries with dried cherries or apricots for a unique flavor combination.
• Holiday Spices: Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the mixture to enhance the festive flavor.

Don’t be afraid to get creative! This recipe is the perfect canvas for your culinary imagination.

With its irresistible flavor and stunning presentation, Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge is sure to become a beloved addition to your holiday celebrations. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or indulging in a piece yourself, this fudge is the ultimate festive treat. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and start spreading some holiday cheer!

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