Introduction to Christmas Cherry
The season of seasons is here, and so is the warm cheer, pieces of laughter, and scents of goodies baking in our ovens. This particular sweet delight that emerges as my favorite is the Christmas Cherry fudge. Not just a treat of richness but of sweetness. It hugs one’s smile onto their face. As a mother constantly on the run, I need fast solutions, and here it is. It’s how easy it can be to impress my loved ones or brighten up a holiday gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Cherry
If you’re looking for a dessert that combines ease with a burst of festive flavor, Christmas Cherry fudge is your go-to recipe. It comes together in a snap, using just a handful of ingredients. Plus, the sweet tang of maraschino cherries paired with creamy white chocolate will have everyone raving. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, making your busy holiday season just a bit sweeter! You’ll love how effortlessly it fits into your celebrations.
Ingredients for Christmas Cherry
Let’s gather our ingredients for the delightful Christmas Cherry fudge! Here’s what you’ll need:
- White chocolate chips: These form the creamy base of our fudge. I recommend using high-quality chips for the best flavor.
- Sweetened condensed milk: This adds richness and sweetness, bringing the fudge together beautifully.
- Unsalted butter: It helps to smooth out the mixture, lending a velvety texture to each bite.
- Almond extract: A tiny splash elevates the flavor profile, adding a warm, nutty richness.
- Maraschino cherries: The star of this recipe! Make sure to drain and dry them, as excess moisture can affect the fudge.
- Whole maraschino cherries for garnish: These provide a festive touch and enhance the fudge’s presentation.
- Holiday sprinkles: Add a pop of color and fun! They’re perfect for making your fudge visually enticing.
- White chocolate drizzle (optional): If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle on top adds a little extra flair.
For exact quantities, don’t forget to check the bottom of the article. They’re handy for your next kitchen adventure!
How to Make Christmas Cherry
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the simple steps to create this delightful Christmas Cherry fudge. Follow along, and soon you’ll have a festive treat to share with family and friends!
Prepare the Pan
First things first, let’s line our baking dish. Grab an 8×8-inch pan and cut a piece of parchment paper large enough to cover the bottom and sides. Leave some overhang. This makes it easy to lift the fudge out later. Trust me; you’ll thank yourself when it’s time to slice!
Melt the Base Ingredients
Next, we need to create a creamy base. In a medium saucepan, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter. Turn the heat to low and stir continuously. The key here is to be patient! Keep stirring until everything melts together into a smooth, velvety mixture. Then, remove it from heat and add in that delicious almond extract, which adds a nutty kiss of flavor.
Add Flavor and Cherries
Now, it’s time for the star of our recipe—the maraschino cherries! Gently fold the chopped cherries into your melted fudge mix. This step is crucial! You want to mix just enough to combine without overdoing it. Nobody wants pink streaks in their fudge; we want delightful bites of cherry in every piece!
Set the Fudge
Pour the glossy mixture into your prepared pan. Spread it evenly using a spatula to smooth the top. Now, for the fun part—garnish with whole maraschino cherries and a sprinkle of colorful holiday sprinkles. They make it festive! Pop the pan into the refrigerator and let it chill for at least three hours, or until it’s firm.
Cut and Serve
Once the fudge has set, it’s showtime! Lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Place it on a cutting board and slice it into squares. You’ll be amazed at the beautiful cherry flecks throughout. Serve them on a festive plate, or package them up as gifts. Happy indulging!
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality white chocolate chips for the best flavor and texture.
- Ensure your maraschino cherries are well-drained and patted dry to maintain the fudge’s consistency.
- Fold in the cherries gently to avoid breaking them apart.
- For a smoother texture, allow the fudge to chill longer if needed.
- Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to two weeks.
Equipment Needed
- 8×8-inch baking dish: A square pan works best, but an 8-inch round pan is a fun alternative.
- Medium saucepan: Any pot will do, as long as it heats evenly.
- Spatula: Use a rubber or silicone spatula for easy mixing and spreading.
- Parchment paper: If you don’t have it, foil can work in a pinch.
- Cutting board: Essential for slicing your fudge into delicious squares!
Variations of Christmas Cherry
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and rich flavor.
- Dark Chocolate Twist: Swap out white chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a more decadent treat.
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free white chocolate chips and coconut cream instead of sweetened condensed milk for a vegan-friendly version.
- Minty Fresh: Incorporate a drop of peppermint extract for a refreshing flavor perfect for the holidays.
- Colorful Fusion: Replace maraschino cherries with dried cranberries or raisins for a different fruity touch!
Serving Suggestions for Christmas Cherry
- Pair the fudge with a hot cup of cocoa for the ultimate cozy experience.
- Serve alongside a festive fruit platter to balance out the sweetness.
- Present the fudge on a decorative holiday platter with sparkling lights.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful pairing!
FAQs about Christmas Cherry
Can I make Christmas Cherry fudge in advance? Absolutely! This fudge can be made a few days before your holiday gathering. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.
What if I can’t find maraschino cherries? No worries! You can use dried cherries or even candied cherries as a substitute. Just remember to adjust the moisture content if they’re different.
How do I store leftovers? To maintain its deliciousness, store any leftover fudge in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for up to two weeks!
Can I freeze Christmas Cherry fudge? Yes, it freezes well! Just cut it into squares, place them in a freezer-safe container, and you can enjoy this treat for up to three months!
Is there a way to make this fudge less sweet? If you prefer a less sweet treat, try using semi-sweet chocolate chips instead of white chocolate. You can also reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk slightly.
Final Thoughts on Christmas Cherry
Creating Christmas Cherry fudge is more than just making a delicious treat; it’s about crafting moments of joy during the busy holiday season. As I watch my family dive into the rich, creamy bites, I feel a warm glow knowing I’ve made something special. This fudge is perfect for holiday gatherings, gifting, or simply enjoying with a mug of cocoa by the fire. Its vibrant colors and delightful flavors evoke pure happiness. So go ahead, make this festive fudge and let its charm fill your home with sweet memories that last long after the last bite.
Print
Christmas Cherry Fudge Recipe: A Sweet Holiday Treat!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and festive fudge recipe filled with sweet maraschino cherries, perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained, patted dry, and chopped
- Whole maraschino cherries for garnish
- Holiday sprinkles for garnish
- White chocolate drizzle (optional)
Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir continuously until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in almond extract.
- Gently fold the chopped maraschino cherries into the melted fudge mixture, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Garnish with whole cherries and holiday sprinkles. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until firm.
- Lift the fudge out using the parchment paper overhang, cut into squares, and serve. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- Ensure maraschino cherries are well-drained and patted dry to avoid excess moisture in the fudge.
- Use high-quality white chocolate chips for the best flavor.
- The fudge can be made a few days in advance of serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
