If you’ve ever dreamed of a silky, decadently sweet treat studded with vibrant cherries and just the right hint of almond, this No-Bake Cherry Fudge will absolutely steal your heart! It’s the kind of recipe that draws people to your kitchen no matter the season, transforming ordinary days into little celebrations. The best part? There’s no oven required, so you’ll have gorgeous, jewel-bright fudge squares in no time—perfect for sharing or sneaking a bite all to yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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Ingredients:
- 3 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries, well-drained and patted dry
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds or pecans (optional)
How to Make No-Bake Cherry Fudge
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, making sure there’s enough overhang on the sides to help you lift out your fudge later. This little step saves so much time (and mess) when it’s time to cut perfect squares!
Step 2: Melt White Chocolate and Sweetened Condensed Milk
Grab a medium saucepan and set it over low heat. Pour in your white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk, then stir constantly. As the chips begin to melt, keep stirring gently until everything comes together in a smooth, glossy pool. Patience is important here—low and slow prevents burning and lumpy fudge!
Step 3: Flavor Your Fudge
Once your chocolate mixture is velvety smooth, remove it from the heat. Add in the vanilla and almond extracts, and give the mixture a good stir. The aroma at this stage will make you want to dive right in!
Step 4: Add Cherries and Nuts
Next, fold in the chopped maraschino cherries (make sure they’re dry!) and nuts, if you’re using them. Gently mix until the cherries and nuts are evenly distributed—no one wants to miss a cherry in their slice!
Step 5: Chill and Set
Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula. Pop the pan into the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 hours, or until everything is set and firm to the touch.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once your No-Bake Cherry Fudge is firm, use the parchment overhang to lift it out of the dish. Place it onto a cutting board, then slice it into squares. Each piece is a bite of creamy, cherry-studded perfection!
How to Serve No-Bake Cherry Fudge
Garnishes
Give your No-Bake Cherry Fudge a gorgeous finish by drizzling with melted dark chocolate or a sprinkle of extra chopped nuts on top before chilling. A few whole maraschino cherries arranged delicately over the top also make a showstopping presentation—just be sure to add them after slicing for picture-perfect squares.
Side Dishes
Pair your fudge squares with a fresh pot of coffee or a creamy mug of hot chocolate to accentuate their rich sweetness. For a lighter touch, serve alongside a simple bowl of vanilla bean ice cream or tangy Greek yogurt for a dessert plate that balances creamy, sweet, and tart.
Creative Ways to Present
Pack your No-Bake Cherry Fudge into decorative boxes for fabulous homemade gifts—think holidays, birthdays, or thank-you treats. Arrange pieces on a pretty platter for a festive dessert table, or cut smaller cubes and skewer with fresh fruit for a fun party snack! This fudge brings charm wherever it goes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your No-Bake Cherry Fudge at its best, store the cut squares in a single layer in an airtight container, with pieces of parchment between layers if stacking. Tucked into the refrigerator, they’ll stay beautifully fresh and creamy for up to one week.
Freezing
Want to get ahead with your dessert plans? This fudge freezes perfectly—just layer the squares between sheets of parchment in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to three months. Let the fudge come to room temperature before serving to restore that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Reheating
You don’t need to reheat No-Bake Cherry Fudge, but if you prefer it softer, leave it at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as this can mess with the creamy consistency or melt your fudge entirely!
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
You can, but fresh cherries will add extra moisture, which can affect the texture of the fudge. If using fresh, pit and chop them, then pat thoroughly dry; the flavor will be less sweet and the color less vibrant than maraschino cherries.
Is No-Bake Cherry Fudge gluten-free?
Yes! All the core ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, just be sure to check the labels on your chocolate chips and extracts to avoid any hidden gluten if you’re highly sensitive.
Can I use dark or milk chocolate instead of white chocolate?
The classic version uses white chocolate for a creamy canvas that lets the cherries shine, but you can swap in milk or dark chocolate for a deeper, richer flavor. Just note that it will dramatically change the look and flavor of your No-Bake Cherry Fudge.
How do I keep my fudge from being too soft?
The secret is making sure your cherries are as dry as possible before adding them to the mixture. Excess moisture is the enemy of firmer fudge! Also, be sure to give the fudge plenty of time to set in the refrigerator before slicing.
What occasions are best for No-Bake Cherry Fudge?
Honestly, any occasion can be brightened by a plate of these pretty fudge squares! They’re especially perfect for holidays, birthdays, potlucks, or as a sweet homemade gift when you want something festive and fuss-free.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try this No-Bake Cherry Fudge and see just how easy (and gorgeous!) homemade fudge can be. Every bite is bursting with creamy, cherry-studded goodness—so whether you’re making it for a special celebration or just to share something sweet, this treat is sure to become a new favorite. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself coming back for “just one more square” again and again!
Print
No-Bake Cherry Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 36 squares 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
Indulge in the sweet, creamy goodness of this no-bake cherry fudge. With the perfect blend of white chocolate, maraschino cherries, and a hint of almond, this easy-to-make treat is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 3 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries, well-drained and patted dry
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Line the dish: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- Melt ingredients: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk, stirring until smooth.
- Add flavors: Remove from heat, then mix in vanilla extract, almond extract, cherries, and nuts if desired.
- Chill: Spread the mixture in the dish evenly, refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm.
- Cut and serve: Lift the fudge out using parchment paper and cut into squares to enjoy.
Notes
- Ensure cherries are well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the fudge.
- For an extra touch, drizzle with melted dark chocolate before chilling.
- Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Candy
- Method: No-Bake, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
