Description

Cherry Garcia Fudge is a rich and creamy no-bake dessert blending the classic flavors of semi-sweet chocolate, maraschino cherries, and crunchy walnuts. This easy-to-make fudge combines smooth melted chocolate with bursts of cherry sweetness and a touch of vanilla, making it a delightful treat perfect for chocolate lovers and cherry enthusiasts alike. The addition of white chocolate chips creates a beautiful contrast and extra creaminess in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Chocolate Base

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix-ins

1/2 cup chopped maraschino cherries (drained and patted dry)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/3 cup chopped white chocolate or white chocolate chips

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Instructions

Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil, ensuring there’s an overhang on the sides for easy removal of the fudge once set.
Melt Chocolate Mixture: In a medium saucepan set over low heat, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly to prevent burning until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract thoroughly to infuse the fudge with rich flavor.
Incorporate Mix-ins: Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries, walnuts, and white chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the chocolate mixture, creating a balanced texture and taste.
Set the Fudge: Quickly pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan and spread it into an even layer using a spatula.
Chill: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours or until firm and set enough to hold its shape when cut.
Cut and Serve: Once firm, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper or foil overhang and cut into approximately 16 small squares. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Ensure the maraschino cherries are well drained and patted dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture, which can impact the fudge’s texture.
For a nut-free version, either omit the walnuts completely or substitute with additional white chocolate chips for extra sweetness and creaminess.
This fudge can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Allow fudge squares to come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving for optimal texture and flavor release.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 square
Calories: 180
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 25mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 5mg