Creamy Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge Recipe

Heavenly Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge Recipe for Sweet Holidays

Crafting delectable cranberry white chocolate fudge promises a delightful winter treat that sparkles with festive charm.

Sweet kernels of tart berries dance through creamy white chocolate, creating a symphony of flavors.

Memories of cozy kitchen gatherings emerge with each silky bite.

Seasonal ingredients blend seamlessly, offering a luxurious dessert that feels both elegant and comforting.

Soft, melt-in-your-mouth textures invite pure indulgence without complicated techniques.

Festive colors and rich flavors make this fudge a standout dessert for holiday celebrations.

You can easily impress guests with this simple yet stunning confection that takes minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction.

Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge: What Makes It Special

  • Savor Delightful Festivity: Perfect for holiday gatherings, this cranberry white chocolate fudge brings festive cheer with its elegant blend of sweet and tangy flavors.
  • Master Simple Culinary Magic: Beginners can confidently create this recipe with minimal cooking skills, requiring just basic stirring and melting techniques that guarantee delicious results.
  • Celebrate Quick Satisfaction: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you'll transform simple components into a luxurious treat without spending hours in the kitchen, making it ideal for spontaneous dessert cravings.
  • Personalize with Creativity: Customize this versatile recipe by swapping dried cranberries with other mix-ins like chopped nuts or different dried fruits, allowing you to craft a unique dessert that reflects your personal taste.

Ingredients You Need for Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge

Main Ingredients:
  • White Chocolate Chips: Provides the creamy base and sweet flavor for the fudge.
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds richness and helps create a smooth, creamy texture.
  • Dried Cranberries: Offers a tart burst of flavor and festive color to the fudge.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and warmth to the overall taste of the fudge.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
Preparation Ingredient:
  • Parchment Paper: Ensures easy removal of the fudge from the baking dish and clean cutting.

How to Prepare Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge

Step 1: Prepare Baking Dish

Line an 8×8-inch baking dish completely with parchment paper, ensuring the paper covers the bottom and sides for easy removal of the fudge later.

Step 2: Melt Chocolate Base

In a medium saucepan, combine:
  • White chocolate chips
  • Condensed milk
  • Salt

Melt these ingredients over low heat, stirring constantly until the mixture becomes completely smooth and glossy with no lumps.

Step 3: Add Flavor Boosters

Remove the chocolate mixture from heat and gently fold in:
  • Vanilla extract
  • Dried cranberries

Stir until the cranberries are evenly distributed throughout the creamy mixture.

Step 4: Set and Chill

Pour the entire mixture into the prepared parchment-lined dish, using a spatula to spread it evenly and create a smooth top surface.

Step 5: Refrigerate to Perfection

Place the dish in the refrigerator and let it chill for 2-3 hours. The fudge will firm up and develop a delightful texture during this time.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Once fully set, lift the fudge out of the dish using the parchment paper edges. Cut into small squares using a sharp knife and serve at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

Tips to Nail Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge

  • Use high-quality white chocolate chips for the smoothest, creamiest fudge texture.
  • Ensure low and slow melting to prevent chocolate from burning or seizing.
  • Pat dried cranberries gently with paper towel to remove excess moisture before adding to fudge.
  • Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week for maximum freshness.
  • For a nutty variation, sprinkle chopped toasted almonds or pistachios on top before chilling.

Flavor Twists on Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge

  • Nutty Cranberry Fusion: Replace white chocolate chips with milk chocolate, add chopped pecans or almonds for extra crunch and depth of flavor.
  • Vegan Cranberry Dream: Swap condensed milk with coconut cream, use dairy-free white chocolate chips, and ensure dried cranberries are unsweetened for a plant-based version.
  • Gluten-Free Holiday Treat: Verify all ingredients are certified gluten-free, especially chocolate chips and dried cranberries, perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Seasonal Berry Swap: Replace dried cranberries with freeze-dried raspberries or chopped dried blueberries for a different fruity profile and vibrant color.

Pairings that Compliment Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge

  • Holiday Gift Wrap: Package fudge squares in clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons for a charming homemade present perfect for Christmas or winter gatherings.
  • Dessert Platter Accent: Arrange fudge pieces alongside other holiday treats like gingerbread cookies and peppermint bark to create a stunning seasonal dessert display.
  • Afternoon Tea Companion: Serve these sweet, tangy fudge squares with a warm cup of Earl Grey or chai tea for a delightful mid-afternoon indulgence that balances rich white chocolate with tart cranberry notes.
  • Coffee Shop Style Treat: Plate fudge squares on a small vintage dish with a dusting of powdered sugar, mimicking the elegant presentation found in trendy café settings.

How to Store Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
  • Refrigerate fudge for up to 2 weeks, keeping it sealed to maintain freshness and prevent absorbing other food odors.
  • Freeze individual pieces wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
  • Thaw frozen fudge in the refrigerator overnight, allowing it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

  • Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried cranberries?

No, fresh cranberries will add too much moisture and make the fudge soggy. Dried cranberries work best for maintaining the right texture and providing concentrated flavor.

  • How do I prevent the white chocolate from burning while melting?

Use low heat and stir constantly. White chocolate can easily scorch, so keep the temperature gentle and keep stirring until smooth and fully melted.

  • Is it necessary to use condensed milk in this recipe?

Yes, condensed milk is crucial. It provides sweetness, helps create the creamy texture, and ensures the fudge sets properly. Substituting it will change the consistency and taste of the fudge.

Print
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Creamy Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge Recipe

Creamy Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge Recipe


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4.8 from 31 reviews

  • Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Homemade cranberry white chocolate fudge delivers festive winter sweetness with creamy texture and tart notes. Delightful dessert promises rich flavors that complement holiday gatherings and bring warmth you’ll savor.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups white chocolate chips
  • 1 can (14 ounces / 397 grams) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries

Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare an 8×8-inch baking dish by lining it completely with parchment paper, ensuring edges are covered for easy removal.
  2. Create a gentle double boiler setup, melting white chocolate chips, condensed milk, and salt together over low heat, stirring consistently until the mixture transforms into a silky, uniform consistency.
  3. Immediately remove melted mixture from heat source and incorporate vanilla extract, gently folding in dried cranberries until evenly distributed throughout the creamy base.
  4. Transfer the lustrous fudge mixture into the prepared parchment-lined dish, using a spatula to spread smoothly and create an even layer with uniform thickness.
  5. Refrigerate the fudge for approximately 2-3 hours at 40°F, allowing it to solidify completely and develop a firm, slice-able texture.
  6. Once chilled and set, lift the fudge out using parchment paper edges, then cut into precise square portions using a sharp knife.
  7. Serve the fudge at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture, storing any remaining pieces in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Notes

  • Opt for high-quality white chocolate chips to ensure a rich, smooth texture that melts beautifully and creates a luxurious fudge base.
  • Gently fold dried cranberries at the end to prevent them from sinking and distribute them evenly throughout the fudge for bursts of tangy flavor.
  • For a gluten-free version, double-check that your white chocolate chips are certified gluten-free, as some brands may contain trace amounts of gluten.
  • Customize the recipe by swapping dried cranberries with other dried fruits like chopped dried cherries or orange-infused cranberries for a unique twist.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 hours
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 260
  • Sugar: 28 g
  • Sodium: 55 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 10 mg
Jack Monroe

Jack Monroe

Founder & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Pacific Northwest cuisine, Single-serving recipe development, Sustainable sourcing and cooking, Modern comfort food​

Education

Brightwater
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Sustainable cooking, seasonal ingredients, and food systems education


Jack grew up with a fishing rod in one hand and a cast-iron skillet in the other. After graduating from Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food, he set out to prove that cooking for one could still taste like a feast.
Jack believes that food should feel real: fresh, fearless, and a little wild, just like the rivers he grew up around. For Jack, every single dish is a small adventure, and the best ones are the ones you can cook with heart, not hassle.

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