Are you ready to impress friends and family with a sweet holiday treat? This White Chocolate Cranberry Fudge is rich, creamy, and packed with festive flavors. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any gathering. Grab your apron and let’s dive into this easy recipe that will make your holidays a little brighter and a lot sweeter!
Ingredients
The right ingredients make the best white chocolate cranberry fudge. Here’s what you need:
– 2 cups white chocolate chips
– 1 (14-ounce) can of sweetened condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 ½ cups dried cranberries, roughly chopped
– ½ cup chopped walnuts or pistachios (optional)
– 1 pinch of sea salt
These ingredients blend together to create a creamy, sweet treat. The white chocolate chips give a rich flavor. Sweetened condensed milk adds sweetness and creaminess. Vanilla extract enhances the taste, while cranberries bring a tangy twist.
If you want extra crunch, add chopped walnuts or pistachios. The pinch of sea salt balances the sweetness. This simple list makes a delightful holiday treat that everyone loves.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Baking Pan
First, line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. Make sure the paper hangs over the edges. This helps you lift the fudge out later. Next, spray the parchment lightly with non-stick cooking spray. This step ensures the fudge does not stick.
Melt the Chocolate Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of white chocolate chips and a 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk. Heat this mixture over low flame. Stir continuously as it melts. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning. You want it to be smooth and creamy.
Enhance the Flavor
Once the chocolate melts, take the pan off the heat. Add 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt. Stir well to mix these flavors into the fudge. This enhances the taste and makes it even more delicious.
Incorporate Add-Ins
Gently fold in 1 ½ cups of roughly chopped dried cranberries. If you like, add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pistachios for extra crunch. Make sure these add-ins are well distributed. This ensures a burst of flavor in every bite.
Spread into the Prepared Pan
Pour the fudge mixture into the lined baking pan. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly into the corners. Aim for a smooth and level surface. This makes for a nice presentation later.
Chill to Set
Now, place the pan in the refrigerator. Chill it for about 2 hours. You want the fudge to be firm to the touch. This step is crucial for the perfect texture.
Cut and Serve
When the fudge is set, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper. Place it on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut it into squares or rectangles. Be sure to clean the knife between cuts for neat edges. Enjoy your delicious holiday treat!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Texture
To get the best fudge, you need to melt the chocolate right. Start with low heat. Stir the mixture often. If you let it get too hot, it can burn. This will ruin the taste. Once melted, it should be smooth and creamy.
To keep that creamy texture, mix well after adding the vanilla and sea salt. This helps blend the flavors fully. The right mix will make your fudge rich and smooth.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving, presentation matters. Place your fudge squares on a pretty platter. For a pop of color, sprinkle extra cranberries and nuts on top. This makes it look fancy.
If you want to gift fudge, wrap each piece in clear cellophane. Tie it with a nice ribbon. It shows you care and makes the gift special.
Flavor Enhancements
Want to jazz up your fudge? Try adding citrus zest. A bit of orange or lemon zest can brighten the flavor.
If you don’t like nuts, you can skip them. You can also swap in dried fruits like cherries or raisins. This gives your fudge a new twist and keeps it exciting.
Variations
Alternative Add-Ins
You can change the dried cranberries for other fruits. Dried cherries or raisins work well here. These swaps can add new flavors to your fudge. You can also mix in different nuts. Try using chopped pecans or almonds for a twist. Each nut brings its own taste and crunch.
Chocolate Varieties
While this recipe uses white chocolate, you can switch it up. Dark or milk chocolate can make this treat even richer. The darker chocolate will give a deeper flavor, while milk chocolate is sweeter. You can adjust the sweetness based on the type you choose. Just keep the same amounts for the other ingredients.
Seasonal Ingredients
Adding spices can make this fudge extra special. Cinnamon and nutmeg are perfect for the holidays. Just a pinch can bring warmth to the dish. You can also try adding orange zest for a fresh kick. These small changes can make the fudge feel festive and unique.
Storage Info
Best Storage Practices
To keep your white chocolate cranberry fudge fresh, use an airtight container. This helps to prevent air from drying out the fudge. You can also wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap. This way, you can grab a piece whenever you want a sweet treat.
Shelf Life of Fudge
In the fridge, your fudge lasts about two weeks. Keep it in a cool place to maintain its texture and flavor. If you notice any changes in smell or appearance, it’s best to toss it out.
Freezing Fudge
You can freeze fudge for longer storage. First, cut it into squares. Then, wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. To thaw, just take out a piece and let it sit at room temperature for about an hour. Enjoy your fudge later without losing any of its yummy flavor!
FAQs
Can I use chocolate bars instead of chips?
Yes, you can use chocolate bars instead of chips. To melt chocolate bars, chop them into small pieces. This helps them melt evenly. Use the same amount as chips, about 2 cups. Melt them slowly over low heat, just like you do with chips. Stir well to keep it smooth.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make this fudge vegan. Instead of white chocolate chips, look for dairy-free white chocolate. You can also use coconut milk or almond milk in place of sweetened condensed milk. Find a brand that matches the sweetness you like. This way, you keep the creamy texture.
What can I do if my fudge is too soft?
If your fudge is too soft, chill it longer. Place it back in the fridge for another hour. If it stays soft, try adding more white chocolate. Melt a little more and mix it in. This will help firm it up.
How do I make fudge without sweetened condensed milk?
You can make fudge without sweetened condensed milk using other ingredients. Try using coconut cream or cashew cream as a base. Mix these with a sweetener like maple syrup or agave. This will create a similar sweet and creamy texture.
You learned how to make a creamy white chocolate fudge. We covered the ingredients, steps, and tips to perfect your treat. Remember to customize with your favorite nuts or dried fruits. Store it properly to keep it fresh. Enjoy sharing the fudge with friends and family or savoring it yourself. Fudge is versatile, and you can make it your own. Try different flavors or seasonal touches for fun. Happy baking!
